You may have already seen the infamous photos and videos that circulate social media. Giraffe Manor is sometimes noted as "the most instagrammed location in the world". Social media influencers with flowing dresses, sitting next to a large open window, while a giraffe sticks their head in and seemingly shares their breakfast with them...sound familiar?Seems pretty cool, right? You may wonder how one gets the chance to partake in this. Some also often wonder if parts of these videos/photos are edited or photo shopped. Well here's a disclaimer; Giraffe Manor is a totally real place, and open to the general public. It is expensive, they book up years in advance, but it is 100% worth it. Keep reading for a "behind the scenes" look at what it is like to stay at Giraffe Manor.š¦
Disclaimer: There are a lot of photos in this blog post, because you truly have to see it to believe it!
(I visited Giraffe Manor a few months before COVID hit, so the experience may be a little different temporarily.)
I'd like to share a quick background of Giraffe Manor.
The manor is located in Nairobi, Kenya. This boutique hotel is owned by The Safari Collection, and sits on an extensive 12 acres of land. The property serves as a sanctuary for a tower (herd) of Rothschild Giraffes, who are endangered. The group consists of all females, and one male. The babies are raised, and released into the wild, in an effort to increase their diminishing population.
One of the giraffe residents waiting for pellets^ š„°
After booking our trip, Giraffe Manor arranged for somebody to pick us up from the airport. The communication and overall process was very smooth. Upon arrival at the Manor, we were greeted by a staff member with fresh lemonade, and given seats at one of their outdoor lounge areas. We were then given brief instructions and safety procedures to follow when on the premises. After our check in, we were shown to our room.
Every step I took on this property felt like pure magic. It's hard to explain the feeling in words, but I can't express enough how beautiful this property is. After being led up the grand central staircase and down an elegant hallway, we arrived at our room. This is when we were awe struck for the second time (the first, of course, being when we first arrived). The room was large and spacious, with traditional (in Africa) insect nets over the beds. The bathroom had a large vanity space, walk in shower, tub, and a separate toilet room. Off of the bedroom was our own personal patio, overlooking the grounds of the manor. The patio is also one of the locations where the giraffes can walk up to, looking for food!
Let's take a tour of Giraffe Manor ā¬
bedroom^
part of the bathroom^
private patio^
In addition to our room, all guests have full access to the rest of the manor. This included a library, a sitting room (with a full bar accessible 24/7....one of my favorite parts š) , the breakfast room, and a large shared patio.
Grand foyer at the entrance^
Grand staircase at the entrance^
Sitting Room with ....(ahem)...the full bar^
The Breakfast Room^ (note the large windows, big enough for a giraffe to stick their head through š)
The beautiful courtyard where every meal is served^
3 full meals are served during the day at specific times
So what actually happens during the day? ā¬
There are two points in the day when the giraffes wander from their quiet, more private land, up to the Manor. They know the routine and stick to it pretty regularly, mostly because they are looking for treats! First thing in the morning, the giraffes make their way up to the manor as the sun is rising. This is when you must be sure to get up very early if you're hoping for some alone time with the giraffes. The staff does an excellent job of taking photos for you, and ensuring that each guest has equal opportunity for a "photo-op". The staff will give you pellets in your hand, in which you can then feed to the giraffe. Be careful, they get excited and can get pretty greedy! š¤
After a bit of time outside with the giraffes, the staff will guide you to your table inside the breakfast room. This is when they close the windows, and it is your turn to eat!
while many "influencers" are seen here all dolled up, I did not have the patience for that when I had to wake up at 5 am...note the jeans š ^
During the day when the giraffes are not on the manor property, there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy. The property is pretty expansive, so it was nice to go exploring. There is a gift shop which sells local artwork, hand-made jewelry, and more. There are also several seating areas outside with beautiful views of the grounds. On a nice day, it is great to just sit down and relax with a glass of wine. There are also little warthogs roaming the property, they are fun to watch!
The property is connected to a welcome center, which is where the giraffes also spend part of their day. This center is open to the general public for a small fee, and offers giraffe feedings on an elevated platform where you are "up close and personal" with the giraffes. They also have a small education room where you can learn more about the property and its residents. Staff members will offer to walk you from the manor to the visitor center if you wish to go there.
a view of the front of the manor, from one of the outdoor lounge areas^
In addition to spending time on the property, there are various local indoor markets. These markets are a great stop if you are looking for souvenirs to bring home. We also visited a local baby elephant orphanage. The orphanage is only open for one hour each day, so plan accordingly. This was a wonderful experience, and very educational. I highly recommend including this during your stay if you can! (The manor staff will give you a ride to any of these locations upon request!)
After a day of exploring, you will want to make sure you are back at the manor for "tea time". The afternoon tea occurs in the early evening prior to dinner. This is the second time during the day when the giraffes come back up to the manor property. Tea and light snacks are served in front of the manor around the lounge seating. You will also receive pellets again to feed the giraffes, and have more photo opportunities. Your time spent with the giraffes is then shortly followed with dinner service to end the day. (The food is absolutely incredible).
example of a menu and cute little napkin ring^
food presentation was on point^
Overall Review:
Although it is costly, I 100% recommend Giraffe Manor (please note this blog post is not sponsored in any way, I just genuinely enjoyed my time there). I only stayed here for 2 days. If you are considering going, I would recommend staying no longer than 4 days. While there is plenty to do nearby, it can all be done in a short amount of time. If you are like me and get antsy being in one place for too long, then definitely keep this a shorter trip. (of course everyone is different, to each their own!)
The staff is incredible and accommodating, the food was the best food I have ever had in my life, and the experience itself is just so unique. If you are looking for a special and magical getaway, Giraffe Manor is the place to go.
