Giraffe Manor

Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya, a Michelin Key Three-Keys property, offers an unparalleled luxury experience, primarily distinguished by its resident herd of Rothschild's giraffes. Guests consistently describe their stay as a "bucket list" item, delivering a unique blend of wildlife interaction, vintage charm, and exceptional hospitality.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The overall sentiment for Giraffe Manor is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently calling it an "incredible experience" and "absolutely worth the money." Many find the opportunity to interact intimately with giraffes to be a magical and unforgettable aspect of their trip. It's often cited as a perfect start or end to an East African safari. While undeniably expensive, most reviews conclude that the unique experience and comprehensive inclusions justify the cost.

2. Key Highlights

• Giraffe Interactions: The undeniable highlight is the close-up interaction with the Rothschild's giraffes, who visit the manor during breakfast and high tea, often poking their heads through windows to greet guests. Guests can feed and even kiss the giraffes, creating incredible photo opportunities. Morning room visits from the giraffes are also a cherished experience.
• Conservation Efforts: A significant portion of the proceeds from stays contributes to the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) and its Rothschild's giraffe conservation program, adding a meaningful layer to the luxury experience.
• Exceptional Service: The service is consistently described as "top-notch" and "phenomenal," with staff going above and beyond to ensure a luxurious stay. Each room often comes with a dedicated butler. Staff are also adept at assisting guests with giraffe interactions and capturing photos.
• Vintage Charm & Design: The manor itself boasts a beautiful colonial style with elegant antique furniture and a vintage atmosphere, seamlessly blending historic charm with luxurious comfort.
• All-Inclusive Amenities: Stays are all-inclusive, covering gourmet meals, drinks (including house wines and spirits), laundry service, airport transfers, and Wi-Fi. The Retreat, a newer addition, offers a pool, jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna.

3. Room Quality

Giraffe Manor features 12 individually themed rooms across the original 1932 Manor House and the newer Garden Manor. Rooms are "beautifully decorated" and balance historic interiors with luxurious comfort. Many rooms offer balconies, windows, or verandas for direct giraffe feeding access, with specific rooms known for this interaction (e.g., Betty, Daisy). Beds are often described as "incredibly comfortable." Bathrooms maintain an original style, contributing to the authentic charm. However, some older reviews mention rooms being worn down or lacking fans, though more recent accounts praise the comfort and design. It's recommended to research specific rooms for desired giraffe access.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Giraffe Manor is highly praised. All meals are included and typically consist of three-course gourmet meals, described as "exquisite," "flavorful," "refined," and "beautifully served." The food is often tailored to dietary restrictions. Breakfast and high tea are particularly special due to the giraffes joining guests at the windows. While not considered "Michelin-star dining," it's consistently rated as high-end. Daisy's Cafe at The Retreat emphasizes fresh, locally sourced, and sustainably produced ingredients, including honey from the manor's beehives and organic vegetables from its garden.

5. Service & Staff

Guest feedback on service and staff is consistently excellent. The staff is described as "phenomenal," "top-notch," "genuinely friendly and kind," and attentive. They are praised for their ability to manage guest interactions with the giraffes, ensuring everyone gets a chance to feed them and capture photos. Dedicated butlers enhance the luxurious experience.

6. Location & Accessibility

Giraffe Manor is situated in the leafy suburb of Lang'ata in Nairobi, set within 140 acres of indigenous forest and gardens. It offers breathtaking views and a tranquil environment. The location is convenient, approximately a 30-45 minute drive from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and about 25 minutes from Wilson Airport, making it an ideal stop for safaris. It's also close to attractions like the Giraffe Centre (which guests can access for free), the Karen Blixen Museum (10 minutes away), and about 40 minutes from Nairobi National Park.

7. Value & Pricing

Giraffe Manor is a luxury property with a corresponding high price tag. Rates in 2025 were cited to start from approximately $875 to over $2,400 per person per night for a Superior Room, with family suites ranging higher (e.g., a Superior Family Room for $3,200 per night for up to 4 people, or a Luxury Family Suite for $3,600 per night). Despite the significant cost, many guests consider it "worth every single penny" due to the unique giraffe interactions and the all-inclusive nature of the stay, which covers gourmet meals, drinks, laundry, and airport transfers. It's considered an investment in an unforgettable memory rather than just a hotel stay.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some minor criticisms and considerations include:

• Cost vs. Expectations: Some guests, particularly from older reviews, have felt it to be overpriced for what they received, especially regarding perceived limitations on "unlimited drinking" (e.g., champagne being an extra cost).
• Staged Interactions: A few guests have noted that the giraffe feeding experiences, particularly during breakfast and high tea, can feel somewhat "staged" due to the organized nature of ensuring all guests get photo opportunities.
• Room Variation: Not all rooms offer direct giraffe access from balconies or windows, which can be a disappointment if not researched beforehand.
• Animal Welfare Concerns: Some ethical discussions arise regarding the habituation of giraffes to humans for food, with concerns that it might alter their natural behaviors. However, the manor emphasizes its role in conservation and rehabilitation.
• Limited Amenities (Historically): Older reviews occasionally mentioned a lack of a fitness center or swimming pool. However, the addition of The Retreat has addressed this by offering a pool, jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna.
• One-Night Stay Sufficiency: Some recommend a one-night stay as sufficient to experience the main giraffe interactions.

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