Giraffe Manor, Nairobi, Kenya

One of Nairobi’s most iconic buildings, Giraffe Manor, harks back to the 1930s when European visitors first came here to enjoy safaris. The most fascinating thing about the elegant property is the herd of friendly resident Rothschild giraffe that live here: they often poke their long necks through windows, especially at meal times in search for a treat.

Giraffe Manor is an exclusive boutique hotel, set in 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest in the Langata suburb of Nairobi. With its stately façade, elegant interior, verdant green gardens, sunny terraces and delightful courtyards, guests often remark that it’s like walking into the film Out of Africa: indeed, one of its six suites is named after the author Karen Blixen.

However, the most fascinating thing about Giraffe Manor is its herd of resident Rothschild giraffe who visit morning and evening, poking their long necks into the windows in the hope of a treat, before retreating to their forest sanctuary. Giraffe Manor is owned and operated by The Safari Collection, and can be booked for the night or as part of a complete tailor-made safari.

The Giraffe Manor offers an unparalleled dining experience. Guests can expect to dine with the giraffes who often pop their heads in for a tasty treat at breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Breakfasts can be enjoyed in the sunroom while dinner is in the cosy drawing room with roaring fire. Alternatively, guests can enjoy romantic dinners under the stars on the outdoor terrace. Home cooked meals are the order of the day at Giraffe Manor with traditional meals served with a touch of modern edge.

 

Giraffe Centre: The Giraffe Centre is a breeding centre for Rothschild Giraffes and operates a conservation and educational program for local school children. A nature trail surrounds the centre, meandering into the surrounding forests. The Giraffe Centre has helped to preserve this original habitat for the giraffes and the other animals that live in the area. Guests can enjoy walks on the nature trail.

Local excurisons: Visits to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage - the orphanage is a small charity that rescues orphaned baby elephants and rhinos whose parents are often taken by poachers. Guests have the opportunity to watch feeding and bath times and watch the calves playing with footballs and chasing each other. The calves are gradually introduced to Tsavo National Park depending on the health of the calf.

The Manor features three standard rooms namely the Lynn, Marlon and Daisy rooms. Each room features a luxury, double four poster bed, en-suite bathroom, antique furnishings and striking decor. Each room also features a hairdryer, torch, sewing and nail kit and wireless internet.