Giraffe Manor

Giraffe Manor is not just a luxury boutique hotel — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime destination for anyone who dreams of blending classic hospitality with unforgettable wildlife encounters. Set in the leafy suburb of Lang’ata on the outskirts of Nairobi, this historic manor house sits on approximately 12 acres of private land within a broader 140-acre indigenous forest sanctuary. It feels like stepping into a timeless chapter of East African colonial history, yet every corner of the estate reflects vibrant, living conservation work right in the heart of a bustling capital city.

The manor itself was built in 1932 and modelled on a stately Scottish hunting lodge, complete with ivy-clad stone walls, elegant interiors, and a charm that feels simultaneously grand and welcoming. Over decades it has evolved from a private residence into a world-famous boutique hotel while retaining its original architectural character and sense of story.

At the heart of Giraffe Manor’s appeal is its resident herd of endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, a species that was once on the brink of extinction. These gentle giants roam freely through the lush grounds and nearby sanctuary. Morning and afternoon are especially magical as giraffes curiously approach the manor and sometimes poke their long necks through open windows, hoping for a treat — often dried grass pellets — from delighted guests as they enjoy breakfast or afternoon tea. It’s a surreal but deeply intimate wildlife encounter that has become the defining image of the property.

The hotel is extremely exclusive and intentionally small. Across its twelve individually decorated rooms and suites — spread between the original Historic Manor and the adjacent Garden Manor — there’s space for only around 29 guests at a time. Each room is unique, with décor and details that nod to the manor’s history while offering modern comfort and charm, tranquil views over the sanctuary, and opportunities for close giraffe encounters right from private verandas or windows.

Accommodation here is full board, and meals are served in elegant communal dining rooms or lounges that feel more like the home of gracious hosts than a hotel restaurant. Whether you are lingering over a hearty breakfast, sipping afternoon tea on a sunny terrace, or sharing stories with fellow guests in the library or lounge, the atmosphere blends refined hospitality with a sense of living in the heart of a wildlife haven.

Beyond the giraffe interactions, Giraffe Manor offers a range of experiences within its grounds and nearby — from leisurely walks in the gardens to enjoying facilities like a spa, gym, or relaxing with a drink in the Orchard House. The adjacent Giraffe Centre and other Nairobi attractions, including shops, museums, and even Nairobi National Park, are easily accessible, giving guests plenty to explore when they step outside this enchanted estate.

What makes Giraffe Manor truly special isn’t just its luxury or heritage; it’s the memorable, emotional connection guests form with the wildlife and the sense of being part of an ongoing conservation story. Every morning when a giraffe slips its head through the breakfast window, you’re reminded that this is one of the rare places where hospitality, history, and wild nature meet in an extraordinary and heart-warming way.