Ever heard of Giraffe Manor? No joke—there’s an actual place where giraffes join you for breakfast, poke their heads through your window, and casually stroll around like house pets. I’m telling you, it’s straight out of a dream! Imagine sipping coffee while a giraffe photobombs your morning selfie. Sounds wild, right? That’s exactly what makes Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya, one of the most unforgettable stays on the planet. If you're craving a travel story that's cooler than anything your friends have done, trust me—this is the place. Let’s dive into the magic of Giraffe Manor together!
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| (Photo Credit: thegiraffemanor/Instagram) Giraffe Manor |
Owned by The Safari Collection, the Manor seamlessly blends exquisite, old-world hospitality with a profound and unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation, particularly for the endangered Rothschild's giraffe. Let me walk you through everything you need to know about Giraffe Manor—why it’s worth the hype, how to plan your visit, and how to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
You'll Discover
A Historic Gem Amidst Indigenous Forest
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| Photo Credit: thegiraffemanor/Instagram |
Location: Gogo Falls Road, Lang'ata, Nairobi, Kenya
Giraffe Manor enjoys a privileged location within 12 acres of private land, itself enveloped by an expansive 140 acres of indigenous forest. This secluded setting offers a serene escape from the urban bustle of Nairobi. Its accessibility is another key advantage, being conveniently situated approximately 20 minutes from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and a mere 18 minutes from Wilson Airport (WIL), making it an ideal starting or concluding point for any Kenyan safari adventure. From various vantage points within the Manor, guests are treated to picturesque views of the undulating Ngong Hills, adding to the idyllic charm of the surroundings.
From Scottish Hunting Lodge To Conservation Haven
The manor house itself boasts a rich history, originally constructed in 1932 by Sir David Duncan, a prominent figure known for Mackintosh's Toffee. Designed in the style of a grand Scottish hunting lodge, the building exudes an old-world elegance and character.
However, Giraffe Manor's true purpose and fame began to unfold in 1974 when it was acquired by Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville. It was through their dedicated efforts that the property transformed into a beacon of wildlife conservation. The Leslie-Melvilles became acutely aware of the perilous decline of the Rothschild's giraffe, an endangered subspecies, and committed their lives to providing a safe haven for these majestic creatures.
Their vision led to the establishment of the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) at Giraffe Manor, initially their family home. This pivotal charitable organization spearheaded a vital breeding program, with the ultimate goal of reintroducing Rothschild's giraffes into the wild, thereby expanding their genetic diversity and securing the long-term future of the subspecies. The adjacent Giraffe Centre, also managed by AFEW, plays a crucial role in public education, welcoming visitors and school children to learn about giraffe conservation.
In a strategic move to help fund AFEW's burgeoning conservation initiatives, the Leslie-Melvilles began operating the manor as a small, exclusive hotel in 1984. This ingenious model ensures that every guest's stay directly contributes to the ongoing efforts to protect these magnificent animals. In April 2009, Tanya and Mikey Carr-Hartley acquired the manor, diligently continuing its legacy of both luxury hospitality and dedicated conservation work.
The Unforgettable Giraffe Manor Experience
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| Photo Credit: thegiraffemanor/Instagram |
The undisputed highlight of a stay at Giraffe Manor is the extraordinary and intimate interaction with its resident Rothschild's giraffes. These gentle giants, known for their inquisitive nature, frequently extend their long necks through the windows of the manor house, particularly during breakfast and afternoon tea, eagerly seeking out treats from delighted guests.
1) Breakfast with Giraffes: This iconic experience is a truly magical way to start the day. Guests can find themselves literally sharing their breakfast table with giraffes, hand-feeding them specially prepared pellets, or for the truly adventurous, even offering treats from their mouths. These moments create not only indelible memories but also incredible photographic opportunities that are shared globally.
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| (Photo Credit: thegiraffemanor/Instagram) Breakfast with Giraffes |
2) Room Interactions: For an even more personal encounter, certain rooms, especially those situated on the upper floors facing the central courtyard, offer the unique possibility of waking up to a giraffe gently poking its head through your bedroom window. Bowls of treats are thoughtfully left in these rooms the night before, encouraging these charming early morning visits.
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| (Photo Credit: thegiraffemanor/Instagram) Room Interactions With Giraffe |
3) Afternoon Tea: The magic continues into the afternoon with traditional tea served on the lawn. This offers another delightful opportunity for guests to interact with and feed the giraffes while savoring an array of delicious cakes and teas amidst the serene surroundings.
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| (Photo Credit: thegiraffemanor/Instagram) Afternoon Tea With Giraffe |
The collective experience at Giraffe Manor is consistently described by visitors as magical, surreal, and a profound "once-in-a-lifetime" moment, often surpassing even the highest expectations.
Exquisite Accommodation And Thoughtful Amenities
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| Photo Credit: thegiraffemanor/Instagram |
Giraffe Manor is an exclusive boutique hotel, comprising a total of 12 elegantly appointed and individually designed rooms, capable of accommodating up to 29 guests at full capacity. The rooms are thoughtfully distributed between two sections: the original 1932 Historic Manor and the more recent Garden Manor, built in 2011 to seamlessly replicate the original's architectural style.
1) Historic Manor Rooms: These include "Betty," "Daisy," "Jock," "Lynn," "Marlon," and the "Karen Blixen Suite" – names that pay homage to historical figures and beloved giraffes. These rooms beautifully preserve the manor's original character, showcasing Art Deco features, antique furniture, and period architectural details that transport guests back in time.
2) Garden Manor Rooms: "Salma," "Edd," "Arlene," "Helen," "Kelly," and the "Finch Hatton Suite" comprise this newer wing. While contemporary, they are meticulously designed to blend effortlessly with the historic ambiance, often incorporating reclaimed materials to maintain a consistent aesthetic.
Each room is a sanctuary of comfort and style, featuring elegant furnishings, romantic four-poster beds, and well-appointed en-suite bathrooms. Several rooms also boast inviting fireplaces and private balconies, offering prime vantage points for giraffe viewing.
Stays at Giraffe Manor are comprehensive and full-board, encompassing all meals from gourmet dinners to light lunches. Most beverages are also included, such as house wines, spirits, beers, and soft drinks, though champagne and specially imported wines/spirits are extra. For added convenience, complimentary chauffeured vehicles are available for local sightseeing within the area.
Beyond the rooms, the manor offers additional facilities for guest relaxation, including complimentary Wi-Fi, a massage therapist on-site, and inviting communal areas like elegant sitting rooms and sunny terraces perfect for unwinding. Guests also have access to The Retreat, a nearby wellness center with a spa and swimming pool.
Giraffe Manor Prices
Giraffe Manor is a luxury boutique hotel, and its pricing reflects its exclusivity and the unique experience it offers. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the rates and what they include:
From US$1,168–US$1,284 per adult per night sharing.
Child rate (ages 2–11): From US$805 per child per night sharing.
Child Policy
Children under 2: Stay free of charge
Ages 2–11: Child rate applies
Ages 12 and above: Charged at the adult rate
What’s Included
All rates at Giraffe Manor are fully inclusive, typically covering:
1) All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea)
2) Selected house wines, beers, spirits, and soft drinks
3) Laundry services
4) Wi-Fi
5) Entrance to the AFEW Giraffe Centre
6) Local transfers within the Karen & Langata area
7) Access to on-site activities like boules, croquet, and the Orchid House
Excluded: Premium wines and spirits, tips, health insurance, massage treatments, and personal expenses.
Beyond The Giraffe Encounters
While the giraffe interactions are undoubtedly the main draw, Giraffe Manor offers more to enrich a guest's stay:
1) Giraffe Centre Access: Guests enjoy complimentary access to the adjacent AFEW Giraffe Centre, providing an educational opportunity to delve deeper into the conservation efforts for Rothschild's giraffes.
2) Forest Walks: Guided walks through the surrounding indigenous forest are available, offering a chance to observe diverse bird species and potentially spot other local wildlife such as warthogs or bushbuck.
3) Local Excursions: The manor can facilitate optional excursions to a variety of nearby attractions, including:
4) Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: An renowned orphanage for elephants and rhinos.
5) Karen Blixen Museum: The former home of the celebrated Danish author of "Out of Africa."
6) Kazuri Beads: A local enterprise producing beautiful handmade jewelry.
7) Matbronze Art Gallery and Foundry: Showcasing exquisite bronze sculptures.
8) Nairobi National Park: Uniquely, the world's only national park situated within a capital city.
Guests also have ample opportunity to simply relax by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, or enjoy the tranquil beauty of the manor's gardens.
Planning Your Visit
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| Photo Credit: thegiraffemanor/Instagram |
Given its immense popularity, Giraffe Manor is almost always in high demand and frequently booked out more than a year in advance. Prospective guests are strongly advised to plan and book their stay well in advance to secure their desired dates. A two-night stay is often recommended to fully immerse oneself in the unique experience and enjoy all the manor has to offer.
Nairobi's climate generally features cool nights and warm days. While seasonal variations are minimal due to its equatorial location, there are two distinct rainy seasons: from March to May and from mid-October to December. It's worth noting that the manor typically closes for maintenance during May.
In essence, Giraffe Manor offers an unparalleled blend of luxurious accommodation, historical grandeur, and an truly magical, interactive wildlife encounter. More than just a vacation, it is a contribution to the vital conservation of endangered Rothschild's giraffes, creating memories that last a lifetime and fostering a profound appreciation for these magnificent creatures.
Final Thoughts
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| Photo Credit: thegiraffemanor/Instagram |
Imagine telling your best friend, “Yeah, I had breakfast with a giraffe.” Sounds wild, right? But that’s exactly what Giraffe Manor offers—an unforgettable mix of luxury, nature, and jaw-dropping moments you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you're craving a unique escape or just want those ‘OMG’ photos for the ‘Gram, this place delivers big. Trust me, it’s not just a stay—it’s a full-on bucket list adventure. So, what do you say—ready to make Giraffe Manor your next epic story? Let’s start planning, because this is one trip you’ll be bragging about for years!
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