If there’s one African hotel recognized globally for its charm and unique wildlife experience—thanks in part to Instagram-worthy moments—it’s the Giraffe Manor. Owned by The Safari Collection, this luxurious boutique hotel is nestled within 140 acres of indigenous forest in Nairobi’s serene Langata suburb.

However, it’s not just the hotel’s convenient proximity to Kenya’s bustling capital that captures hearts. The true allure lies in its herd of endangered Rothschild’s giraffes freely roaming the property. Guests are enchanted by these gentle giants poking their heads into the breakfast room, creating a once-in-a-lifetime, bucket-list experience.

Want to know what makes a stay at this iconic destination unforgettable? Read on to discover why Giraffe Manor is more than a hotel—it’s an immersive wildlife adventure.

Staying at the Giraffe Manor

With its stately façade and timeless interiors, Giraffe Manor evokes the romance of the 1930s—the golden age of safari travel. The hotel’s ivy-clad walls, sun-drenched terraces, and manicured gardens transport guests into scenes reminiscent of Out of Africa.

Accommodation at Giraffe Manor

The manor features just 12 luxurious rooms split between two wings: the historic Manor House (built in 1932) and the more recent Garden Manor, crafted using reclaimed 20th-century materials to complement its vintage charm. Together, they offer a unique blend of classic elegance and modern comfort.

Manor House

The original Manor House includes five superior rooms—Betty, Daisy, Jock, Marlon, and Lynn—all of which can accommodate two guests in either twin or king-sized beds. The crown jewel here is the Karen Blixen Suite, which boasts:

• Two bedrooms (one master with a king-size bed and one with twin beds), each with ensuite bathrooms.
• A cozy fireplace, a writing desk, and an antique dressing table sourced from Blixen’s own guest room.

Garden Manor

In the Garden Manor, you’ll find the Helen, Kelly, Arlene, Salma, and Eddsuperior rooms, along with the Denys Finch Hatton Suite. This suite includes:

• A king-sized bed and a loft with two single beds accessed via a spiral staircase.
• A sofa bed ideal for children, making it perfect for families.

Rates

Expect luxury pricing for this extraordinary experience:

• Superior rooms start at approximately USD 965 per person per night, based on double occupancy.
• The Finch Hatton Suite costs around USD 2,970 per night for a family of four.
• The Karen Blixen Suite is priced at USD 3,300 per night.

Given the high demand, Book Now">advance booking is essential to secure your stay.

Activities at Giraffe Manor

The magic of Giraffe Manor begins each morning with breakfast alongside its giraffe residents. Watch as these towering creatures stretch their necks through the dining room windows, hoping for a taste of dried grass pellets—an unforgettable interaction that delights guests of all ages.

While giraffe sightings are frequent, it’s worth noting that these animals roam freely, making interactions unpredictable. After breakfast, enjoy exclusive experiences:

Visit the Giraffe Centre

Adjacent to the manor is the Giraffe Centre, operated by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW). Established in 1979, the center focuses on conservation education and breeding programs for Rothschild’s giraffes. From its raised feeding platform, visitors get an up-close view of these graceful animals and can learn about their unique personalities. Unlike Giraffe Manor (which is reserved for overnight guests), the Giraffe Centre welcomes the public with entry by donation.

After your visit, take a leisurely walk through the Gogo River Sanctuary, offering serene paths and views over Nairobi’s scenic landscape.

Wellness at The Retreat

Exclusively for Giraffe Manor guests, The Retreat is a haven of tranquility just 80 meters from the main house. Facilities include:

• A sauna, steam room, and hot tub.
• An infinity pool with views of giraffes strolling by.
• A fully equipped gym and indulgent massage treatments using natural products from Healing Earth and Cinnabar Green.

Unwind on a sun lounger or rejuvenate your senses in this serene environment while enjoying the surrounding wildlife.

Afternoon Tea

As the day winds down, experience afternoon tea on the manor’s lawns with a backdrop of Ngong Hills. Delight in an array of sweet and savory treats while giraffes curiously wander nearby. This intimate experience is reserved exclusively for in-house guests.

For those looking to get active, the manor offers lawn games like croquet and boules, or you can opt for a quiet game of chess in the cozy sitting room.

Dining at Giraffe Manor

At Daisy’s Café, guests savor farm-to-table cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The kitchen prides itself on sustainable practices:

• All fish is sustainably line-caught from Kenya’s coast.
• Eggs come from local homesteads (some run by Giraffe Manor team members).
• Honey is harvested directly from the manor’s beehives, and the kitchen garden supplies organic vegetables and fresh herbs.

Signature menu items include:

• Hearty homemade burgers.
• Fresh salad bowls.
• Rice-paper rolls and bao buns.

Private Dining in the Orchid House

For a more exclusive culinary experience, book the Orchid House. Surrounded by 150 orchids, this serene space is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion, offering a memorable, intimate setting.

Location and Accessibility

Giraffe Manor is conveniently located just 30 minutes from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), making it an ideal stop at the start or end of your East African safari. The manor’s Langata location is also:

• 10 minutes from the Karen Blixen Museum.
• Around 40 minutes from Nairobi National Park.

Complimentary airport transfers are included with overnight bookings.

How to Book Your Giraffe Manor Stay

Ready to make your dream stay at Giraffe Manor a reality? Contact one of our safari experts today to start planning your luxurious adventure!

Book Now 

Topics: Kenya Safari Lodges & Camps