Giraffe Manor is a scene from The Jungle Book brought to life. Just imagine enjoying a quiet breakfast in a stately English manor, ivy creeping up the sides of the historic home and the sun streaming through oversized picture windows. Suddenly, a face appears in the window, followed by another and another. But these aren’t stray dogs begging for a bite of your breakfast. They’re Rothschild’s giraffes and this is just another morning at Nairobi’s Giraffe Manor.
One of the internet’s most beloved hotels, Giraffe Manor is more than just a memorable photo op. The 1930s-era former hunting lodge has transformed into a boutique hotel/giraffe breeding sanctuary to create a stay unlike any other. Nestled on 12 private acres packed with native flora and fauna, this Nairobi retreat artfully combines luxury, history and conservation to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience that goes beyond Rudyard Kipling’s wildest dreams.
- Friendly staff are more than willing to help you make the most of your time with the long-necked residents. If you don't see any action at the manor, ask to visit the Giraffe Center (where the animals spend some of their time) and, more than likely, a helpful hand will be available to whisk you down the road.
- To enjoy an extra special evening in an already enchanting locale, ask for a private dinner in the Orchid House. The first-come, first-served experience takes place in a flower-filled greenhouse surrounded by candlelight and promises a memorable night of romance.
- Of course, the highlight of a stay here is the once-in-a-lifetime giraffe interaction. Staff ensure your room is well stocked with pellets to feed early risers (listen for a tap from a curious nose at your window first thing in the morning), while breakfast with the giraffes is the resort’s signature experience.
- The Nairobi hotel's Retreat adds another unique giraffe encounter experience in the form of a tree-lined infinity pool. Gaze at the magnificent mammals as they trot just past the pool. After making a splash, head inside for Kenyan cuisine at Daisy’s Cafe or unwind with a massage at the intimate two-room spa.
- If you want to see even more of Kenya’s wild side during your stay, pre-book a tour in Giraffe Manor’s 4x4 through nearby Nairobi National Park. The 45-square-mile park is teeming with lions, buffalos, zebras and more.
- The original six-room Historic Manor was built as a family home and the eclectic decor reflects this cozy aesthetic. Four-poster beds, Oriental rugs and plush armchairs create a homey vibe.
- Each of Giraffe Manor’s six original guest rooms is named for a figure from the property’s past. Daisy and Marlon, for example, are christened in honor of the center’s original two Rothschild’s giraffes, while Jock and Betty are nods to the hotel’s founders.
- Since the property was a purpose-built family home, each of the rooms boasts a unique layout and configuration. Daisy and Jock, for example, include a set of twin beds, while the two-bedroom Karen Blixen Suite (named for the Out of Africa author) has an antique-inspired four-poster bed.
- All rooms offer large windows often filled with the faces of the property’s signature animals. For maximum giraffe interaction, try to book an accommodation with a terrace like the Marlon or Betty Superior Room.
- Though not every room in the Garden Manor has direct access to the giraffes, all six units have a similarly warm feel and provide spectacular views of the animals trekking about the property.
- Subtle giraffe-themed touches like animal print accents and gorgeous photography keep all 12 rooms on brand without feeling tacky. The overall design accomplishes a tall order — creating a cozy stay that feels much more inviting than your average hotel.
Babysitting services
Bar
Gym
House car
Outdoor pool
Restaurants
Spa
