Giraffe Manor is an intimate hotel situated on the outskirts of the vibrant capital of Nairobi famous for its friendly neighbours – a herd of Rothschild giraffes that delight in sticking their long necks through the windows to be fed treats. Revel in getting up close to these magnificent animals while basking in the comforts of a gorgeous 1930s manor house.

Location

Famed as one of the most instagrammed properties in the world, giraffe manor is situated in Langata next to Nairobi’s Giraffe Centre. The manor is in an exceptional location for interacting with Kenya’s wildlife. Just few minutes from Wilson Airport, it’s prime for many tourists who fly in and out on safari. Nearby are the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Karen Blixen Museum, and Nairobi National Park, along with the many restaurants and malls in Langata and Karen, Nairobi’s upmarket suburbs.

Style and Character

Set in12 acres of private land, within 140 acres of indigenous forest, the house and grounds are simply beautiful. Built in 1932 as a house for Sir David Duncan, it retains the design and feel of its former days, and you feel you are staying in a friend’s house. During the day sit outside watching butterflies flutter through the trees. In the evening recline in the lounge in front of a grand fireplace reading a book or playing chess. There’s even a cabinet hiding away spirits, wines and beers for you to help yourself to. Giraffe artwork and sculptures throughout the property are tastefully curated.

Service and Facilities

Giraffe Manor may not have the sophisticated infrastructure that other luxury hotels in Nairobi have, but the giraffes are far more interesting. Wake to find them its resident herd of Rothschild giraffe casually grazing outside your bedroom window on the foliage covering the house, then enjoy breakfast with the hysterical sight of giraffes swooping their heads inside the dining room. The staff show a deep affection for the building and the giraffes and are hugely accommodating. There is a spa tucked away for pampering and a shop selling arts and crafts.

Given it was built as a family home, rooms vary from suites to twin rooms. You can enjoy your stay in the original manor house offering six rooms: Betty, Daisy (named after the very first giraffe), Jock, Lynn, Marlon and the Karen Blixen Suite. Each room enjoys views over the sanctuary and the giraffe experience offered to guests is the same regardless of which area of the house they are staying in. Find fireplaces in some as the historic features add character. Their handmade toiletries are unique to Giraffe Manor are a nice touch.

Food & Drinks

At the manor, breakfasts are a fun-filled affair. Not only can you tuck into a mouth-watering menu in a light chandelier-decorated room with vast windows, you are likely to be interrupted by one of the friendly giraffes poking its head through the window in search of a treat – such fun for the whole family. Lunch on light meals and kick-start an evening with refreshing cocktails served around a crackling fire.

Dinner takes place in a candle-lit wood-panelled drawing room either around a large communal table or at private tables, depending on guest preference. Cuisine is modern European cuisine: fresh fish, pasta, soups and salads, and heavenly desserts (an orange and basil sorbet and a rich chocolate mousse served with a white chocolate spoon), with a selection of recommended wines

Pampered at the Manor

Those in need of pampering can soothe weary limbs with a massage, whilst the energetically-inclined can enjoy invigorating workouts at the gym. Wonderful family activities at Giraffe Manor include excursions to the nearby Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, the Karen Blixen Museum or relaxing walks in the forest on the estate.

Value for Money

Doubles from $525 (£360) per night based on two people sharing on a full board basis including airport transfers, transportation around Karen and Langata, food and drink. It may be a pricey night but the experience is well worth it.

Thumbs Up

One of the suites has wheelchair access for guests with disabilities

Very Family Friendly

It is the only place in the world where you can have breakfast with giraffe.

Thumbs Down

It’s a bit pricey

You have to reserve early

IG: thegiraffemanor