Last updated on March 4th, 2023 at 03:52 pm
The iconic Giraffe Manor Kenya in Africa is an exclusive boutique hotel that has fast become one of the most Instagrammed properties. Beyond that, it is a haven for the endangered Rothschild giraffe species. In this travel guide, we share our first-hand account of what to expect, as well as tips to ensure that you have an epic experience at Giraffe Manor Hotel.
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An Introduction to Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya
Giraffe Manor Hotel Kenya, owned by the renowned Safari Collection, is a residential-style luxury hotel set on acres of indigenous forest.
The property’s most notable residents are endangered wildlife, specifically a herd of Rothschild giraffes.
Giraffe Manor Kenya Location
The Giraffe Manor is located in the Langata suburb of Nairobi (on the outskirts of Nairobi), the capital city of Kenya, East Africa.
It is approximately 34 kilometers ( ~9 miles)from Wilson Airport (domestic flights only) and 27.1 km ( ~17 miles) from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (domestic and international flights).
Giraffe Manor Kenya Address
Gogo Falls Road, Nairobi, Kenya
For more about Kenya, check out our detailed Key Facts About Kenya Guide here.
Our Experience at Giraffe Manor Nairobi Kenya
The Giraffe Manor has been on our bucket list for what seems like a lifetime. When the opportunity availed itself for us to finally turn our dream into reality, we were giddy with excitement!
From the moment we arrived at the hotel, we knew we would milk the experience for all it was worth! Sleep? Who needs that when we are at THE Giraffe Manor?
One of the features of the hotel that we loved was the fact that it is a small property in terms of the number of rooms. We found the intimate feel to be quite endearing.
Also, can we talk about the Manor’s lush gardens and the amazing views of Ngong Hills in the distance? It was quite a sight for sore eyes!
Drum roll for the experience we had been looking forward to the most — getting up close and personal with the giraffes! What a time we had! Interacting with the long-necked beauties had to be the most fascinating thing ever!
A hilarious moment during afternoon tea time was when a Pumba (wild hog) was caught trying to steal snacks. He was promptly shooed away, and he appeared to have a faster-than-lightning escape plan. But, he unexpectedly fell flat on his butt and got up just as fast, and scampered away.
Our time at Giraffe Manor was not just a story to write home about, but one to scream off rooftops about! Every experience at the hotel was ever so perfectly curated. We are so glad to have checked it off our bucket list.
Details About The Giraffe Manor Kenya
The Giraffe Manor Houses
Main Manor
The historic Manor House is the original building. It was built in 1932 and has six rooms.
Garden Manor
Built in 2011, Garden Manor is a carbon copy of the original manor, and also has six rooms.
Note that you will have the same giraffe experience, and access to the same amenities, whether you stay at the Main Manor or at the Garden Manor.
Giraffe Manor Kenya Rooms and Suites
The Giraffe Manor Hotel Kenya has a total of 10 Superior Rooms and 2 Family Suites for guest occupancy.
Room/suite features include elegant interiors, large windows, en-suite bathrooms, sunny terraces, with some room specific options like an in-room fireplace, four-poster beds, original furniture and much more.
To top it all off, spotting a giraffe outside your bedroom is not a rare occurrence here!
The following is a breakdown of the room and suite options by house.
Main Manor
Betty, Jock, Daisy, Marlon, and Lynn are Superior Rooms (standard rooms), whereas the Karen Blixen Suite is a Superior family suite.
Garden Manor
Helen, Kelly, Arlene, Edd, and Salma are Superior rooms, whereas the Finch Hatton Suite is a Superior Family Suite.
Wireless internet access is available in the rooms, suites, and throughout the property.
Things To Do at Giraffe Manor Kenya
1. The Giraffe Experience
Breakfast with Giraffes
At breakfast time, the Giraffe Manor staff will usher you to either the main house dining room or the sunroom at the Garden Manor.
At the breakfast table, you can interact with the friendly giraffes as they bend their long necks through the open windows seeking treats.
Afternoon Tea with Giraffes
The afternoon tea experience is a unique opportunity to interact with the giraffes outdoors.
Afternoon tea for guests of both the Main Manor and the Garden Manor is hosted at the Main Manor terrace.
Other Giraffe Experience Opportunities
The giraffes wander around the property throughout the day and can make impromptu visits to both the Main Manor and the Garden Manor.
2. Book a Spa Treatment
The spa is located on The Retreat side of the Giraffe Manor property. Services and treatments offered include massages, manicures and pedicures, waxing and tweezing.
3. Use The Retreat’s Amenities
There is nothing quite like relaxing in the luxurious hot tub, steam room, or sauna at The Retreat. Whether you’re looking to soothe your muscles after a long day, or just want to relax in some supremely comfortable surroundings, The Retreat at Giraffe Manor has got you covered. And if you’re feeling especially energetic, the fitness center has all the machines you need to get your heart rate up.
Check out our detailed Retreat at Giraffe Manor Travel Guide
4. Swim at the Infinity Pool
Taking a refreshing dip at the infinity pool is an unforgettable experience. With the panoramic view of lush greenery, it’s easy to feel like you’re swimming in paradise.
If you are lucky, the giraffes might join you at the pool’s edge!
5. Snap Away
If your goal is to take as many photos as possible at Giraffe Manor, you may be pleased to know that there are plenty of great photo spots available. The following are a few options to consider:
- The dining room during breakfast is a great place to take photos of the resident giraffes. There’s always a chance that they will stick their heads in the window to say hello!
- The gardens at Giraffe Manor are a beautiful backdrop for photos.
- A walk around the property is a wonderful opportunity to snap shots of giraffes grazing.
- Your room or suite terrace can also be an amazing photo spot.
- Remember to take some photos of the charming manor house as well. It is certainly aesthetically pleasing.
6. Visit the AFEW Giraffe Centre, Nairobi
The AFEW Giraffe Centre is next door to Giraffe Manor and can serve as an additional opportunity to interact with giraffes. You will be able to feed the giraffes from an observation deck. The Giraffe Centre staff also provide education about giraffes.
7. Indulge Your Palate at Daisy’s Cafe
There is no traditional restaurant at Giraffe Manor – all meals are served in the dining room and courtyard space between the Main Manor and the Garden Manor. However, you can still enjoy a restaurant experience at Daisy’s, which is on The Retreat side of the property.
Daisy’s Cafe offers various delicious food options, from sandwiches and salads to desserts and drinks and more. Whether you are looking for a light bite or a full meal, Daisy’s Cafe has you covered.
Plus, what’s a better way to relax after a long day of spotting giraffes than with a nice glass of wine? Or two? The cafe has a wide selection of house wines, spirits, and beers to choose from.
8. Retail Therapy at the Giraffe Manor Shop
The Giraffe Manor shop is a must-visit store and is chock-full of adorable giraffe-themed souvenirs. Also available are a variety of apparel, decor, and home goods.
Giraffe Manor Hotel Nairobi Tips
Length of Stay
From our experience, a 1-2 day length of stay is sufficient time for an epic experience.
General Tips
Wake up early to make the most of your time at the hotel.
Make use of all the on-site amenities. Remember, as a guest of Giraffe Manor, you have access to The Retreat amenities (except the day rooms- unless you paid for that).
If staying longer than one night, take advantage of the local excursions.
What to Wear
Bring out your finest garments *chuckles*. No, but really, we recommend packing a variety of outfits, given all the photo opportunities at your disposal.
Nairobi’s climate is moderate, but pack clothing that you can layer, so you are prepared for both warm and cool temps.
Safety
- Wash your hands before and after feeding the giraffes
- Do not feed Pumba (the wild hogs). Also, they are cheeky and unpredictable so stay alert.
- Do not make any sudden movements, or loud sounds around the giraffes, as this may startle them and cause them to act unpredictably.
- Do not feed the giraffes anything other than the provided pellets.
- Adhere to all the safety instructions provided by the Giraffe Manor staff.
Etiquette
Please tip the staff. They do a phenomenal job!
Be considerate of other guests and share the space. As tempting as it may be to hog the space for the best photo ops with the giraffes, please don’t.
Photography
Keep your camera/phone ready for photo ops. The giraffes do not follow any set routine, so photo ops can be unpredictable Be flexible.
Booking Tips
Notify the booking staff of any dietary restrictions.
If you are celebrating a special occasion, mention it to the Giraffe Manor staff when booking. They will surprise you with a complimentary gift during your stay.
Giraffe Manor Hotel Kenya Services Offered
All-Inclusive
All meals and most drinks are included in the daily rate.
Luggage Storage
This allows you to store your luggage at Giraffe Manor while exploring other destinations. Note that this will incur a daily rate charge.
Transfers
Giraffe Manor offers complimentary transportation service to nearby attractions and eateries. Also offered is transport to and from the airport.
Giraffe Manor Cost
Giraffe Manor’s price per night depends on factors such as the type of room or suite, the season, etc. Periodically, there may be special offers available. Find price details here.
Giraffe Manor Policies to be Aware of
Check-in and Check Out
Check-in is at 12:45 pm, and check-out is at 9:45 am
Guests
Only overnight guests are allowed on the Giraffe Manor premises.
Photography
Drones are not allowed. Additionally, you are not allowed to bring a professional photographer for photoshoots unless they have also booked a room at the property.
Things to do Near the Giraffe Manor Hotel Kenya
Giraffe Manor may be on the outskirts of Nairobi, the capital city; however, there is no shortage of things to do. Nearby attractions include Nairobi National Park —the only national park in a city!
There are also local excursions to popular local tourist attractions like the Karen Blixen Museum, Ngong Hills, and the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage for baby elephants.
Other Safari Collection Properties
African safaris are, without a doubt, incredible experiences. To that end, The Safari Collection luxury lodges provide a great way to enjoy a unique East African adventure.
The Safari Collection properties offer guests the opportunity to explore some of Kenya’s most stunning national parks.
Sala’s Camp is located in the Maasai Mara National Reserve and offers breathtaking views of the Serengeti Plains. Solio Lodge is located near Mount Kenya, specifically at Solio Game Reserve. Sasaab is another stunning safari property located in Kenya’s Samburu National Reserve. Finally, Siruai is a mobile safari camp located in Laikipia.
All Safari Collection properties provide deluxe accommodations and top-notch service.
Final Thoughts: Is Giraffe Manor Hotel Kenya Worth It?
As far as luxury hotels go, Giraffe Manor is high on our world favorites list. This unique hotel is the perfect place to immerse yourself in a forest sanctuary that traverses acres of land. And, of course, the giraffes. Ah, the giraffes! They are the center of attention, and rightfully so!
So, is Giraffe Manor worth the money? In our opinion, that would be a definitive YES!
Whether you are a first-time visitor, a repeat visitor, or a resident of Kenya, RUN right this minute and book your stay at Giraffe Manor Hotel Kenya! Hurry, they are often booked several months in advance. Happy travels!
Book Your Stay at Giraffe Manor
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