Imagine waking up to a long-lashed giraffe poking its head through your window, casually joining you for breakfast. Welcome to Giraffe Manor, where you’re not just a guest—you’re part of the herd. This world-famous spot just outside Nairobi, Kenya, is where luxury and wildlife create the perfect adventure.
Giraffe Manor has a story almost as tall as its famous residents. Built in 1932, this grand old home was originally a private retreat styled after a Scottish hunting lodge. Its story took a wild turn in the 1970s when Betty and Jock Leslie-Melville bought the place. Passionate about wildlife conservation, they started a breeding program to save the endangered Rothschild’s giraffes. What began as a rescue mission turned into one of Kenya’s most beloved stays.
Today, Giraffe Manor is a boutique hotel run by The Safari Collection, combining old-world charm with a meaningful mission. Think ivy-covered walls, wood-paneled interiors, and vintage-style suites named after the giraffes themselves—each with its own story.
Giraffe Manor is only about 40 minutes from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, making it a perfect start or end point for your Kenyan safari. You can book a private car or even arrange a guided tour that includes the manor as a highlight. Many travelers pair their visit with nearby safari parks for the ultimate wildlife experience.
Let’s be real—the giraffes are the stars of the show. Every morning and evening, these curious creatures wander up to the manor, sticking their heads through windows and doors in search of snacks. You’ll be feeding them straight from your breakfast table or even from your bedroom window. Talk about a breakfast companion upgrade.
But there’s more to your stay than giraffe selfies. The manor’s 12 rooms are pure elegance, with four-poster beds, spacious terraces, and views of the sprawling grounds. Relax in the garden, sip afternoon tea, or explore the nearby Giraffe Centre, where you’ll learn about conservation efforts while meeting even more giraffes.
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Giraffe at Giraffe Manor by Visiting Kenya licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
When you stay at Giraffe Manor, you’re supporting wildlife conservation in Kenya. Profits help fund projects that protect endangered animals, including those long-legged breakfast buddies. It’s the kind of trip that stays with you—not just because of the photos but because of the impact.
Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a luxury seeker, or someone looking for a truly unforgettable getaway, Giraffe Manor delivers. It’s not just a hotel—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you can sip your morning coffee while a giraffe politely asks for a treat. Magical, meaningful, and absolutely worth the trip.
Have you ever seen a giraffe up close? We want to hear all about it in the comments section below!
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