Bucket List Stay at Giraffe Manor: A Luxury Safari Experience in Nairobi, Kenya
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If you've ever dreamed of dining with giraffes, Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya is the ultimate bucket list experience. During our recent trip to East Africa, John and I had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stay at this world-famous boutique hotel, and it absolutely exceeded every expectation.
Nestled in the heart of Nairobi’s Lang’ata suburb and surrounded by 140 acres of indigenous forest, Giraffe Manor offers guests a unique blend of luxury accommodation, up-close wildlife encounters, and meaningful conservation efforts. Here’s everything you need to know about our unforgettable overnight stay at Giraffe Manor and why it should be on your Africa travel itinerary.
Getting to Giraffe Manor from Nairobi Airport
After an unforgettable chimpanzee & gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, we flew into Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where we were greeted by our private safari driver. I expected a bustling, urban environment as we entered Kenya’s capital, but the ride to Giraffe Manor surprised me in the best way. On one side of the road were modern skyscrapers and city life. On the other? Zebras and gazelles roaming freely in Nairobi National Park, a surreal introduction to a city where wildlife and urban life coexist in the most unexpected ways.
First Impressions of Giraffe Manor
As we arrived at Giraffe Manor, it felt like stepping into a dream. This ivy-covered colonial mansion, built in the 1930s, has been transformed into a luxurious safari-style retreat, but it’s also home to a herd of endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, who freely roam the property.
We checked into Daisy’s Room, named after one of the manor’s beloved giraffes. This charming room sits directly above the breakfast area and has its own balcony with views of the Ngong Hills. If you're lucky and your giraffe friend is tall enough, they might stretch their necks up to greet you at sunrise, hoping for one of the specially-made giraffe treats.
Travel tip: Book well in advance. Giraffe Manor is small and exclusive, with only 12 rooms, and it fills up quickly!
A Walk to the Giraffe Centre
Just a short stroll from the manor grounds (accompanied by a security guide), we visited the Giraffe Centre, operated by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife. The center plays a critical role in conserving Rothschild’s giraffes, and it’s an educational and interactive experience. We had the chance to hand-feed the giraffes, learn about their behaviors, and support a meaningful cause in Kenyan wildlife conservation.
Afternoon Tea with Giraffes
One of the highlights of our stay was afternoon tea on the manor’s terrace. As the staff brought out fresh pastries and steaming cups of tea and coffee, giraffes began appearing one by one, poking their heads out from the surrounding trees.
They knew it was treat time!
It was whimsical and surreal, sipping tea while giraffes wandered freely among guests. While many visitors focused on snapping the perfect Instagram shot (and yes, we took a few ourselves), John and I tried to stay present and soak in the moment. The giraffes were curious, graceful, and gentle. It truly felt like we were in a storybook.
Breakfast with Giraffes
The next morning, we were up early and ready for the iconic breakfast with giraffes, and it was pure magic. As the sun rose over the grounds, we were the first to sit down in the manor’s sunny breakfast room. The giraffes were already gathered outside, craning their long necks in anticipation.
We ate first (highly recommend doing this before inviting your giraffe guests to the table!) and then cleared our plates to lay out some giraffe treats. Betty, the matriarch of the herd, remembered me from tea the day before and gently nudged my shoulder as she reached for her breakfast.
It was an intimate, peaceful experience and one that I’ll never forget.
Why Giraffe Manor is Worth the Hype
Our overnight stay at Giraffe Manor was more than just a luxury safari lodge. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combined wildlife conservation, five-star service, and unforgettable memories. The personalized attention from the staff, the beautiful interiors, and of course, the interactions with the giraffes made it one of the most unique places we’ve ever stayed.
If you’re planning a Kenya safari itinerary, even just one night at Giraffe Manor is absolutely worth it.
Giraffe Manor Travel Tips
Book early: Reservations often fill up 12+ months in advance.
Best time to visit: Kenya’s dry seasons (June to October and January to February) are ideal.
Room to request: Daisy’s Room, Karen Blixen Suite, or Betty’s Room for the best giraffe access.
Minimum age: Giraffe Manor welcomes children ages 6 and up.
Combine with safari: Pair your stay with a private safari in Masai Mara, Amboseli, or Laikipia.
Check out our “Safari-Ready” favorites from Amazon below to make sure you're fully prepped for your luxury African adventure.
Final Thoughts
Giraffe Manor wasn’t just a hotel stay. It was an immersive, emotional, and enchanting experience. Whether you're a wildlife lover, a conservation advocate, or simply someone looking for a one-of-a-kind travel moment, Giraffe Manor belongs on your travel bucket list.
We look forward to returning in the future with the family in tow, but until then, I’m holding tight to the memory of breakfast with Betty and that perfect Nairobi sunrise.
