safari giraffe manor

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Giraffe Manor

An intimate hotel situated on the outskirts of the vibrant capital of nairobi.

• Indian Ocean Islands
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• Masai Mara National Park
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Surrounded by 12 acres of private land, within 140 acres of indigenous forest, the iconic Giraffe Manor is famous for its resident herd of Rothschild giraffe that casually wander around the spectacular grounds. Stay in the original manor house offering six rooms: Betty, Daisy, Jock, Lynn, Marlon and the Karen Blixen Suite or the Garden Manor also offering six rooms: Salma, Edd, Arlene, Helen, Kelly and the Finch Hatton 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. Your family can expect beautifully furnished, elegant rooms that include romantic four-poster beds and well-appointed ensuite bathrooms.

At Giraffe Manor, breakfasts are a fun-filled affair. Not only can you tuck into a mouth-watering menu, 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, followed by superb gourmet dinners in the inviting dining room.

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.

What we love about Giraffe Manor

• It is the only place in the world where you can feed and photograph the giraffe over your breakfast table, view them from your front door and peer at them from your bedroom window.
• Enjoy guided walks through the surrounding forests and learn about the traditional uses of the varied flora, view some of the 180 bird species and perhaps meet a warthog or bushbuck.
• Relax with a wonderful spa treatment using products by Healing Earth, a premium organic brand inspired by ancient African healing traditions.

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Giraffe Manor

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Giraffe Manor is one of the most popular accommodation choices in the whole of Eastern Africa. Full of character and steeped in history, its ivy-clad buildings are set in 12 acres of private land and are surrounded by 140 acres of indigenous forest. Reminiscent of its 1930s "Out of Africa" heydays, it is named for its resident herd of Rothschild giraffe that often pop in for a visit.

• Easy access to Nairobi's international and domestic airports
• 10 luxurious historical rooms
• Famous for its resident herd of Rothschild giraffe

You should know

• Children of all ages are welcome at Giraffe Manor

Giraffe Manor is an exclusive boutique hotel in the Langata suburb of Nairobi Kenya and the accommodation of choice before or after a Masai Mara or a Serengeti safari.

As one of Nairobi’s most iconic buildings, Giraffe Manor has extraordinary appeal, it is set in 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest and harks back to the 1930s when European visitors first flocked to East Africa to enjoy safaris. With its stately façade, elegant interior, verdant green gardens, sunny terraces and delightful courtyards. However, a fascinating experience about Giraffe Manor is its herd of resident Rothschild giraffe who may visit morning and evening, sometimes poking their long necks into the windows in the hope of a treat, before retreating to their forest sanctuary. The hotel’s 12 rooms each have their own distinct personality, elegant furnishings and art deco features.

A short stroll across the lawns takes you to the AFEW Giraffe Centre where you can learn about these beautiful endangered creatures and take a guided walk around the sanctuary. The Manor can arrange a variety of optional local excursions for you.

Price Includes

• Airport transfers, transportation around the Karen & Langata area (within the check-in and check-out times), all meals, house wines, house soft drinks, house beers, house spirits, laundry, wireless internet access, entrance to the AFEW Giraffe Centre, Orchid House dining, boules, croquet and VAT.
• Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently.
• Single supplements may apply.
• Request a quote or speak to one of our Agents for the best, most current rates available.

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What our guests say about Kim

October 3, 2024

Kim Abraham is Great!

Kim Abraham worked through all of my questions, always with a pleasant response. This is our trip of a lifetime, and Kim made sure that we are getting it.

August 18, 2024

7 day Vic Falls/ Kruger adventure!!!

I can’t say enough about Kim and how much she did for me and my daughter to plan her 7 day Safari to Victoria Falls and Kruger Park. For myself to be in the USA and my daughter doing a medical internship in Cape Town, South Africa and the time difference, Kim was amazing in every way. The time difference in itself was a challenge but Kim was so helpful and was very quick to respond to me and my daughter at crazy times to make her trip perfect! Kims communication and most importantly making sure my daughter was Safe traveling solo was superb! Everything was planned and she wanted for nothing. Her flights and transfers were perfect along with her accommodations! She loved all of her safaris and the people were all amazing to her! Thank you so much for making a Madison’s Safari memorable in every way !

July 30, 2024

It was a wonderful experience when we…

It was a wonderful experience when we were in Africa Safari. The best part of this trip was the excellent services the team provided. We are so please for the good services they had provided.

Customer Testimonials

Oct 4, 2024

Excellent service from Tanya!

Excellent service from Tanya!! She was very patient and remained friendly through all my problems/changes. I will definitely come back to her for my next bookings.

Keith was so helpful

Keith was so helpful, against many obstacles, he eventually managed to secure me a place on the train from Victoria Falls

Oct 3, 2024

Shaw was very helpful and knowledgeable in hotels and tours.

Shaw was very helpful and patience. Answered all the questions about the hotels and tours options. She is very knowledgeable in travel industry and highly recommend her as a personal travel agent.

WHAT MADE YOUR EXPERIENCE?ANSER;NOTHING

WHAT MADE YOUR EXPERIENCE?ANSER; NOTHING COMPANY DOING WEL?ANSER; LOTS LOTS OF MONEY

The itenary provided for our trip to…

The itenary provided for our trip to Victoria Falls by Shann Shaw was clear and concise. Settlement of online deposit payment was seemless. Will provide more reviews when we complete outr trip.

Keith - best travel agent in the world

Keith is such an amazing communicator, very organised and helpful. This will be my first ever visit to the Kruger national park. As a fellow South African I never had the chance to visit the Kruger NP. Keith sent us voice recordings and I cried listening to his accent and hearing the beautiful nature in the background bringing back so many fond memories of our beautiful country. These messages were so special! I can’t wait to visit and am really looking forward to the most magical experience.

Oct 1, 2024

Leché Miller was very personable and…

Leché Miller was very personable and understood exactly what our needs were. Within a couple of days we booked our trip and we are very much looking forward to our time. Leché was nice, very responsive and reliable. Thank you!

Easy booking process and efficient

Giraffe Manor

This boutique hotel is a nairobi icon and offers one of the city’s most unique experiences: the opportunity to feed and walk with rare rothschild’s giraffe.

The hotel is set on 12 acres of private land in the affluent, leafy suburb of Langata. Built in 1932 as a colonial hunting lodge, it was later owned by Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville in 1974. Later, the couple founded the Africa Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) in 1979 and brought two highly endangered Rothschild Giraffe – Daisy and Marlon – to their home.

Today, Giraffe Manor is a Nairobi icon and offers one of the country’s most sought-after experiences, with visitors often remarking that stepping onto the property is akin to entering a scene from the film “Out of Africa”.

The manor boasts a beautiful facade as well as elegant interiors. The peaceful courtyards and terrace, coupled with the superb gardens that are home to the resident Rothschild Giraffe’s, make Giraffe Manor one of the most famous (and instagrammed) properties in the world.

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Giraffe Manor accommodation

The property offers accommodation in just 12 guestrooms (including two suites), that certainly bring to mind an earlier era, with their charming antiques, canopied beds and classic Baroque furniture. The rooms are split between the main manor and the garden manor, which also houses its own dining and lounge area.

The Finch Hatton Suite is ideal for families and located on the ground floor of the Garden Manor. It features a King-size and two single beds in the loft, accessed by spiral staircase. The Karen Blixen Suite is located on the top floor of the main manor, and is the largest room in the manor. The suite is ideal for families as it has two bedrooms, each with their own ensuite bathroom, and a lovely lounge area.

Breakfast with giraffes

What sets Giraffe Manor truly apart is its herd of endangered Rothschild’s giraffe which interact with guests in one of the most unique experiences in the world. Sometimes these giant animals poke their heads into bedroom windows, or join guests at breakfast by cheekily peering in through the windows and doors looking for a morning snack.

What makes Giraffe Manor Special?

Aside from the Rothschild’s giraffes poking their heads in during breakfast, there are a variety of other fantastic things to do at Giraffe Manor. First and foremost, a visit to the AFEW Giraffe Centre, where you can learn about the Rothschild giraffes, the breeding program and also get up close and personal with the giraffes on the feeding platform. Guests can also visit the baby elephants at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT), and watch their keepers feed and interact with them. The SWT is the world’s leading orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation programme and is fantastic to see first-hand. You can also explore author Karen Blixen’s former home (and now a museum) and still make it back to Giraffe Manor in time for traditional afternoon tea on the terrace. The property also offers spa treatments and have lawn games such as croquet and boules, perfect for adults and children alike.

The African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW)

For over 40 years the AFEW has been helping to protect some of Kenya’s most endangered and iconic species. The Giraffe Centre was first created to save the Rothschild Giraffe, a subspecies found in East Africa. Now, it is famous as an education centre, helping to educate young Kenyan school children.

Accommodation Details

Getting there.

• One of the most unique, boutique hotels in Kenya
• Set in a former colonial hunting lodge
• A nostalgic “Out of Africa” atmosphere
• Opportunity to feed and walk with rare Rothschild’s giraffes
• Only 12 romantic rooms decorated with antiques
• Close to the renowned Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
• Breakfast with the giraffes
• Karen Blixen Museum & Giraffe Centre visit
• Sheldrick Wildlife Trust excursion
• Lawn games such as croquet and boules
• Spa treatments

*Some activities are available at extra cost.

Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is around 40 minutes (29km) from Giraffe Manor in moderate traffic, while the drive to Wilson Airport (13km) takes approximately half this time.

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Accommodation in Nairobi

Below are some of our preferred hotels in Nairobi. Please contact us to tailor design a selection of accommodation options to suit the style of your trip, and your budget.

This contemporary hotel is located along Mombasa Road, close to both Nairobi's airports and the Nairobi National Park.

Fairmont The Norfolk

This landmark Nairobi hotel was built in 1904 and continues to be one of East Africa’s most popular launching points for a high-end wildlife safari.

This boutique hotel is a Nairobi icon and offers one of the city’s most unique experiences: the opportunity to feed and walk with rare Rothschild's giraffe.

This gracious boutique hotel sets the standard for luxury accommodation in Kenya’s vibrant capital, Nairobi.

House of Waine

This excellent family-run boutique hotel offers elegant accommodation and personalised service in the leafy, upmarket Nairobi suburb of Karen.

Nairobi Serena Hotel

The award-winning Nairobi Serena Hotel offers luxury and serenity right in the middle of bustling Nairobi.

Sarova Panafric

This comfortable hotel is located in Nairobi's city centre close to many attractions including the Maasai Market and Carnivore Restaurant.

The Boma Hotel Nairobi

This comfortable, modern Nairobi hotel is located on Red Cross Road very close to Nairobi National Park.

The Fairview Hotel Nairobi

The Fairview Hotel Nairobi offers comfortable, convenient accommodation on two hectares of landscaped gardens in the heart of Nairobi.

The Panari Hotel

This comfortable deluxe hotel is close to Nairobi National Park, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Wilson Airport.

The Sarova Stanley

Kenya’s first luxury hotel, The Sarova Stanley continues to offer the same high standards of accommodation and world-class dining experiences as it did over a century ago.

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Travel Experiences

Giraffe Manor Kenya offers, quite possibly, the most fun and memorable breakfast in the world; with the rare and exquisite Rothschild's giraffes! This is one of the most famous, Instagram worthy hotels in Africa where the resident giraffes crane their necks through the open windows to get their brekkie or treats of delicious pellets supplied by the accommodating hotel!

The giraffes, who live within the grounds within a forest sanctuary, visit the Manor for breakfast, around tea and in the early evening, and whenever they think they may be in line for a snack! This exquisite 'out of Africa' Giraffe Manor house is set in an exclusive and safe area of Nairobi, making it the perfect start, or a sublime end to your East Africa safari. This hotel is luxurious and unique making it rightly famous and perpetually full. Staying here is a once in a lifetime experience and treat. Most certainly, photographs of the giraffes roaming the grounds and inquisitively placing their heads through the Manor's windows adorn the web!

The beautiful Giraffe Manor is the flagship property of four luxurious, very different, and exquisite properties in Kenya under one family-owned company. The 1930's Manor was built as a family home, in the style of a Scottish hunting lodge, when people started to visit colonial East Africa which then had started to become very fashionable among the elite for an exotic travel experience or hunting safari.

When entering the property, the Manor says, "guests often remark that it's like walking into the film Out of Africa: indeed, one of its twelve rooms is named after the author Karen Blixen." When staying here you very well may imagine that you are staying in the beautiful, historic and luxurious home of a friend. The hotel is set in beautiful verdant grounds, with beautiful suites and is complete with inviting terraces and courtyards on which to take tea or have a cooling gin and tonic. The gorgeous main areas and bedrooms would be enough of a draw in and of itself, but here you have the added authentic experience and bonus of visits from the inquisitive, friendly, yet totally wild, Rothschild giraffes!

Due to the Giraffe Manor's popularity and boutique size and style, it really is crucial to book this bucket list experience well in advance; and we have privileged advanced access to its availability.

The Giraffe Manor's rate is full board; breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner, drinks, and laundry. Due to its size, there is also no access to the Manor to non-residents, meaning that to get this experience you have to stay here - giving it a very special air of exclusivity.

There are twelve rooms at Giraffe Manor; six in the Manor House and six in the Garden Manor. Remembering that the Manor was built as a family home, such that each of the rooms differs in size and position, but each is furnished in 1930's style; think fireplaces, mahogany desks, and wood panelling. The Garden Manor is newer but was built as a replica of the Manor House itself, so the Garden Manor's gorgeous rooms reflect the Manor's 1930s style; rooms here are also furnished with 1930s antiques, wooden floors and have antique styled bathrooms. Guests in all rooms have access to the Manor House, the terraces, views of the gardens, and to the areas where the giraffes visit, which for the giraffes is the all-important areas where they hope that they will be fed pellet treats!

There are ten Superior Rooms which go by the names of Betty, Daisy, Jock, Marlon, Lynn, Helen, Kelly, Arlene, Edd & Salma, one Superior Family Suite (Karen Blixen Suite), and one mezzanine family suite. Each is described in detail on the Safari Collection/Giraffe Manor website, including an explanation of the rooms' given name, layout, the view, and whether the giraffes may access the window or terrace for a treat. The Giraffe Manor says it does try to allocate the chosen room on an individual basis, such that you can select your room style. But they do caution that this is not guaranteed. 

By staying at Giraffe Manor, you are contributing to the endangered Rothschild's giraffe. The Manor became home to the Rothchild's giraffe in the 1970s when the then owners, Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville, adopted an orphaned giraffe they named Daisy. Since this time, there has always been at least one Rothschild's giraffe named Daisy at the house; the Giraffe Manor and adjacent sanctuary is currently home to Daisy IV. The story of the current owners and the Manor is an endearing one; Tanya and Mikey Carr-Hartley bought the Manor in April 2009, turning it into a famous hotel. But Tanya had grown up near the Manor House and had frequently visited Betty on horseback for a cup of tea. So owning it was her childhood dream! Giraffe Manor is well located in Langata and Karen upmarket suburbs in Nairobi. Close to many restaurants and shops and the world-famous David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, the Karen Blixen Museum, and Nairobi National Park, all within reach without the need to experience Nairobi's infamous traffic!

CONNECTING GIRAFFE MANOR WITH OTHER DESTINATIONS

Giraffe Manor combines well with other Safari Collection properties, each unique, stunning and unbelievable. Solio Ranch  in North Kenya's  Laikipia County , which offers spectacular rhino and lion experiences in a luxurious, comfortable, and relaxing environment, which – at altitude – is relatively cool for  Kenya  regardless of the time of year. Sasaab, just outside of Samburu national park, offering an incredible safari experience, magnificent views, hot temperatures needing plunge pools in a cooling Moroccan style whitewashed lodge. Sala's Camp, a luxurious, stunning traditional safari camp in a quiet part of the famous and game-rich Masai Mara, on the border of  Tanzania.

Contact Safari Guru for further information and ideas on the how, when and where to piece together the very best safari experience. You can also download this information in PDF for reading later, otherwise visit our  Rwanda  page for recommendations of safari camps and lodges in the various regions.

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The Best of Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar is a 21 day / 20 nights budget to mid-range safari adventure ; visiting the highlights of: Nairobi, Nakuru, Masai Mara National Reserve, Ikoma, Karatu, Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, Kimana, Stone Town and Nungwi Beach

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Giraffe Manor

Set in the garden suburb of Langata to the southwest of Nairobi in central Kenya, Giraffe Manor is a very famous and exclusive boutique hotel, with guest accommodation in 12 rooms and providing unique access to the giraffe sanctuary and other activities in the area, notably including the baby elephant sanctuary.

Giraffe Manor is located in the Langata area to the southwest of Nairobi.

Giraffe Manor is located in the Nairobi area of central Kenya.

Nairobi is the capital of Kenya, the largest city in East Africa and the main transport hub for the region. It is a pretty hectic place these days, with remnants of a more genteel past being now well concealed behind the realities of sprawling modern capital.

Southwest suburbs

The historic garden suburbs of Karen and Langata lie 10km to the southwest of the city, on the western flank of Nairobi National Park. They are relatively peaceful areas of tree-lined streets and largely residential properties on large verdant plots. 

These areas are home to some of the best hotels and notably places of interest such as the Sheldrick Baby Elephant Orphanage and the Langata Giraffe Sanctuary.

Getting there

The property is accessed by road.

It is worth noting that rush hour traffic in Nairobi can be a bit of a nightmare and worth trying to avoid when choosing your flights and hotel.

Outside rush hour this particular location is about an hour from the city centre and JKIA International Airport, half an hour from the domestic Wilson Aerodrome.

We always include all connecting transport in your trip unless  you specifically ask us not to.

The house is centred on an original 1930's manor house.

Giraffe Manor is owned by The Safari Collection, a small upmarket company which was founded by Kenyans Tanya and Mikey Carr-Hartley in 2009 and has a refreshing conservation-centred approach.

Their properties include ...

Kenya : Laikipia South : Solio Lodge Kenya : Maasai Mara : Sala's Camp Kenya : Nairobi : Giraffe Manor Kenya : Samburu : Sasaab

We work very closely with The Safari Collection, not least because one of their senior team members, Helle Sejer-Hansen, joined us in 2017.

House notes

This beautiful old house dates back to the 1930s when European visitors first started to arrive into East Africa for safaris. With its stately façade and elegant interior, Giraffe Manor has an extraordinary appeal. Guests remark that it is like walking into the film Out of Africa and indeed the main protagonists in that film, Karen Blixen and Denys Finch Hatton surely would have visited the house for dinner parties.

The most fascinating thing about Giraffe Manor is not the house itself, but the resident herd of Rothschild giraffes. These beautiful creatures often visit morning and evening, poking their long necks into the windows in the hope of a treat, before retreating to their forest sanctuary.

Since 1974 the house has been the base of a breeding project which has seen this rare sub-species pulled back from the brink of extinction and in recent years animals have started to be reintroduced into the wild, notably in the areas north of Lake Baringo.

Dining options

The food service at Giraffe Manor is usually very high quality.

Meals here are something of an event and are described in a little more detail in the activities section.

Special diets such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher and other variations should not be a problem, so long as you let us know at the time of booking.

Power and connectivity

The property runs on regular mains power and high current items such as hair-dryers should be no problem.

Electricity across Africa is 230Vac and 50Hz. These days most electronic devices are designed to cope with this, but do check your equipment specifications if your voltage or frequency differs back home, notably travellers from USA and Canada.

There are power outlets in the rooms for charging of electronic equipment, with United Kingdom standard three large rectangular pin format (type G). Adaptors are usually available, but it is always worth bringing your own, in which case we recommend buying them in advance rather than trying to get them at the airport on the way, since they often run out.

WiFi is available in throughout the property.

There is likely to be reasonable mobile phone signal in this location.

Child policy

There is no minimum child age at this property.

Early meals are not a problem and the housekeeping staff are also often happy to earn a little bit of extra pocket-money by doing child-minding.

Although the staff and guides will naturally try to tailor the experience to suit all guests, there are no special facilities for children, who are obliged to behave with due consideration for other guests.

Tipping guide

In Africa tipping is definitely not obligatory, but it is commonplace. If you feel that the service provided has been excellent, then you may consider giving tips as follows ...

Lead guide : USD 10 per guest per day Assistant guide or tracker : USD 5 per guest per day Camp staff : USD 5 per guest per day

Staff understand that guests of different nationalities come very different tipping cultures and adjust their expectations accordingly, so you really should tip as you feel comfortable.

Tips are usually given in cash, preferably in the currencies listed below. Where card payments are accepted, then it is often possible to settle tips by bank card.

The currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling. Approximate exchange rate : USD 1 = KES 100. This currency cannot usually be exchanged back into hard currency and is therefore not widely used other than for small purchases in local stores and villages. Note that the Tanzanian and Ugandan shillings are of a very different values.

Any extra payments at this property can be made on some common cards or in cash USD, EUR, GBP and KES (Kenya Shillings). There are no currency exchange facilities.

Guest accommodation is in twelve rooms of various descriptions.

The hotel has just twelve guest rooms, two of which are designated as superior suites, six superior rooms and two smaller standard rooms.

They each have their own distinct personality, with elegant furnishings, four-poster beds and spacious bathrooms ... Finch Hatton Suite : double/twin/family : sleeping up to five, 2 adults and 3 children

Karen Blixen Suite : as above but suitable for wheelchair users

Betty, Lynn and Arlene : double (one large bed)

Daisy, Edd, Jock, Marlon, Salma and Helen : double/twin (one large or two small beds)

Kelly : twin/double/triple

Activities include visits to the world famous David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and modest vehicle safari inside the national park.

Giraffe Manor provides access to a good range of activities.

In fact there's actually a decent range of things to do in the Nairobi area, far more so than in most African cities. Lots of people choose to stay for a more relaxing two nights rather than do the usual one night stopover ...

AFEW Giraffe Centre

The AFEW Giraffe Centre is located at Giraffe Manor and is a great place to learn all about the rare Rothschild giraffes that have been saved from extinction by the captive breeding program here.

The centre at the far end of the property is open to outside visitors during the day. But as a guest at the manor you do not need to visit the centre, you already have privileged and more immediate access to the animals.

Giraffe Breakfast

The main time to interact with the giraffes is over breakffast, which takes place  0600-0900hrs. It can be a pretty chaotic affair, with giraffes leaning in through the windows to gain access to their own snacks. This certainly leads to some fabulous photographic opportunities, you are probably already familiar with the scene thanks to it virality on social media.

Giraffe Tea

A similar scene takes place in the afternoon when high tea is served.

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

Perhaps the biggest highlight in the area is the world famous David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, which is on the south side of Nairobi National Park. Here you can get to meet the elephants and can even adopt a baby. The private tours are exceptionally good, you may even get the chance to walk with and feed the babies.

Nairobi National Park

It is possible to undertake vehicle safaris into the surrounding Nairobi National Park, which may be rather negatively impacted by its proximity to the city, but is quite pleasant in parts and does have a good range of wildlife.

Karen Blixen Museum

Close by is the modest Karen Blixen Museum, where you can discover a little bit about the colonial era in Kenya, when the gentry of Europe ran rough-shod across the indigenous populations in their relentless hedonistic drive to shoot all the wildlife on the continent, as immortalised in the book and movie 'Out of Africa'.

Arts and crafts

There are also several interesting craft and art projects in the area which may be worth visiting, notably Kazuri Beads, Matbronze Art Gallery and the Marula Craft Studio.

A real highlight is a visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

Some modest vehicle safari is possible inside Nairobi National Park.

The main potential downsides are the very high prices, chronic lack of availability, the location is not convenient for the city centre and adverse weather conditions Nov-May.

Giraffe Manor, like all properties, has a long list of potential downsides. Please do not be unnecessarily put off by this section. Our only intention in raising these issues is to ensure that you get to the best and most appropriate places and that your expectations are met and hopefully exceeded ...

High prices

This property is relatively expensive. There are plenty of lower cost options for stopovers in Nairobi, although arguably none with quite the same cachet. It fits well into high end safaris, but tends to become something of a cost burden in medium priced safari trips.

Lack of availability

Even more of a problem is the lack of availability. This hotel is very high profile and very heavily over-demanded. Getting rooms can be a real issue and we recommend booking 6 to 9 months in advance for high season, further ahead for three or more rooms.

Not a safari location

It is very important to realise that Giraffe Manor is not set in a wildlife area. 

It lies in the relatively upmarket suburb of Karen, to the southwest of Nairobi and is distantly encroached upon by all the usual paraphernalia of modern city life, traffic jams, road works and the like.

A novelty stopover

Many people who enquire about Giraffe Manor think that is somewhere they might stay for their whole trip.

In reality it much more commonly features for one or maybe two nights at the front end of a trip, before flying out to a more wild location for a proper safari.

To be honest the place is something of a novelty. A decent one, but a novelty nonetheless.

Chaotic giraffe interaction

Our Clare also reported that she was not sure that she really enjoyed the giraffe breakfast, there were too many people coming and going, the whole thing was rather chaotic. She would rather have spent a few quiet moments with the giraffes out in the garden than in this oddly rehearsed event. Despite the photo opportunities.

Old-fashioned facilities

It should be pointed out that this is an original old house. Although it is presently and equipped to very high standards, guests should we aware of the fact that facilities are, in some small ways, inhibited by the nature of the building.

Day-trippers

Although guests have exclusive use of the property, it is worth pointing out that there is a visitor centre within the grounds, where day-trippers are able to come and see the giraffes. It really is a very minor issue, as the house itself and immediate grounds remain exclusively for residents, but does slightly reduce the sense of exclusivity.

Packaged bookings

Unfortunately the property owners, The Safari Collection, sells tailor-made trips to customers in direct competition with us. However they do so at considerably high cost and with an understandable bias towards pushing their own properties, with Giraffe Manor usually serving as the hook.

We guarantee to offer you the same trips at lower prices and also to offer you genuinely independent advice on all the properties in Africa, to ensure that you get to the ideal locations.

The hook product

The high profile of and massive over-demand for Giraffe Manor enables the owners to use it as something of a lure to sell their other safari lodges, by only releasing room availability here to people who book longer trips with them.

This type of hooking is very rare in the safari world, where the overriding principle is that we should all try to get the right guests to the right lodges, rather than try to fit them into boxes.

The net result is that this family of properties tends to attract a rather distorted group of travellers, whose trips are often not well tailored to suit their needs.

Packaged guests

An significant negative effect of the owners selling their lodges in combination packages is that a high proportion of the people you meet here are doing virtually the same trip.

These guests tend to have done very little research on the various safari options and have simply been happy to buy an off the shelf package, which is very unusual in the safari world.

On a recent visit our Clare reported that she had to go out for dinner because of the "strange mix of guests".

Perhaps this is an innevitable consequence of Giraffe Manor becoming so very high profile.

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Kenya Birthday Trip: Giraffe Manor and Masai Mara Safari

The ultimate birthday trip and bucket list safari! Stay at the exclusive Giraffe Manor, witness the Great Migration, see rare white and black rhinos, and discover some of Kenya’s hidden gems. Throughout your journey, enjoy luxury safari lodges that embody classic African safari.

We designed this Kenya Birthday Trip: Giraffe Manor and Masai Mara Safari for a couple from Houston. They had previously done a safari in the Okavango Delta, and now wanted to explore a completely different side of Africa. Seeing the Great Migration in the Masai Mara was one of their bucket list items. When we told them that Giraffe Manor, which they had seen all over Instagram, was also in Kenya, they knew they had to visit!

Giraffe Manor, just outside of Nairobi, was their first stop. They loved feeding the giraffes and seeing them poke their long necks into the dining room for breakfast! From there, they flew to ol Donyo Lodge. This unique lodge is set amongst the Chyulu Hills, in between Kenya’s more popular destinations, and therefore a little-explored hidden gem. Their game viewing was spectacular, and they had fantastic cultural interactions with the local Masai guides.

Next on their Kenya Birthday Trip: Giraffe Manor and Masai Mara Safari, they flew north to the exclusive Solio Game Conservancy. Not only was the lodge beautiful and welcoming, but the location is one of the few places in Africa where you can see rare black and white rhinos. Here, they decided to do something a little different and enjoy a safari on horseback—one of the many highlights of their spectacular journey.

And of course, they had to visit the Masai Mara to witness the Great Migration. Each year, thousands upon thousands of wildebeest migrate through the area, creating a moving feast that attracts predators of all sorts. They stayed at the exclusive Sala’s Camp, where they could return between game drives and enjoy serene views over the green plains. They loved capping off each evening watching the gorgeous sunset with sundowner cocktails.

After their whirlwind adventure, it was time to say goodbye to Kenya. They flew back to Nairobi and spent the day at the beautiful Ole Sereni hotel, then enjoyed a transfer to the airport to begin the journey home.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to Kenya! On arrival at the airport, meet your driver for a transfer to Giraffe Manor. This gorgeous manor boasts classic European elegance, with ivy-covered walls, verdant gardens, and sun-drenched terraces. However, the most fascinating thing about Giraffe Manor is its herd of resident Rothschild giraffe who may visit in the morning and evening, sometimes poking their long necks into the windows in the hope of a treat, before retreating to their forest sanctuary. Spend the night at this wonderfully unique hotel, where you’ll have an opportunity to feed and kiss the friendly giraffes! Giraffe Manor

Day 2 Today, your safari adventure begins! Fly to the Amboseli region of southeastern Kenya. You’ll have your first opportunity to see the Big 5 in the wild on a short game drive to ol Donyo Lodge, located in the Chyulu Hills.

This luxurious lodge sits in thick woodland on a gently sloping hillside with views out over the plains to a distant Mt Kilimanjaro. Designed to merge your outdoor and indoor living, a series of unique suites and villas (no two are the same) appears to emerge from the arid landscape on either side of a palatial lounge and dining area. Arrive in time for a scrumptious lunch followed by an evening game drive, horseback ride, or mountain biking. ol Donyo Lodge

Day 3 – 4 Spend the next 2 days on safari in the region that Ernest Hemingway described as the “green hills of Africa.” Rise early to see wildlife like lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, and much more on morning game drives, when wildlife is at its most active. As the animals retreat in the heat of the afternoon, return to the lodge and enjoy some free time to relax and perhaps cool off with a dip in your private plunge pool. Indulge in a spa treatment or learn about Maasai culture from one of your local guides. Enjoy delicious gourmet meals and premium drinks at the lodge, all included in your room rate. For a special experience one evening, you can choose to sleep on your roof terrace under a brilliant canopy of stars. ol Donyo Lodge

Day 5 – 6 Your journey continues as you fly to rhino country! These incredibly endangered species (both white and black rhino) can be seen at the exclusive Solio Game Conservancy, where you will stay for the next 2 nights. Make your way to Solio Lodge—a beautiful haven nestled in the valley between the dramatic slopes of Mt Kenya and the rolling peaks of the Aberdare Mountains, offering stunning views of Mt Kenya. Enjoy signature experiences such as horseback riding, walking, game drives, and remote fishing trips. Solio Lodge

Day 7 You can’t leave Kenya without visiting the Masai Mara! Fly to the Mara today and enjoy a game drive to the intimate Sala’s Camp. Just 7 luxury tents, each with a private pool, open out to jaw-dropping vistas of Kenya’s vast plains. During your stay, you’ll witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles—the Great Migration—in this world-famous safari destination (July and August are the best months to see river crossings). Sala’s Camp

Day 8 – 9 Spend 2 days exploring this majestic park with its large diversity of beautiful scenery, including meandering rivers, towering escarpments, and rolling grasslands that provide the perfect habitat for the abundance of game, including the Big 5: lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and black rhino. Game viewing is spectacular year-round. In addition to the Great Migration, you may see a pride of lions stalking their prey, observe a herd of elephants and their fascinating social structure, or see pods of hippos wallowing in the rivers. In the evenings, cap off your game drives with a cocktail in a scenic location, soaking up the breathtaking Mara sunsets. Sala’s Camp

Day 10 Embark on your final game drive this morning as you head to the airstrip for your flight back to Nairobi. Enjoy the use of a day room at the luxurious Ole Sereni hotel, where you can watch giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and buffalos lounging near the waterhole. Then, you will be transferred to the international airport to begin your journey home.

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Giraffe manor in kenya: what it’s like, cost, & more.

In 2022, Nick & I had the absolute pleasure of staying at Giraffe Manor in Kenya. This has been a dream of mine for a long time and we even had to reschedule it twice because of COVID, but we finally made it there in July 2022 after our safari in the Masai Mara and it was everything I hoped it would be, and more.

We’ve traveled all over the world and experienced some pretty cool things, but Giraffe Manor in Kenya was by far the most exciting and unique I’ve ever had. The giraffes are even more majestic and amazing in person, and the hotel is really fantastic.

If you have a chance to go, I would absolutely recommend it. You have to book far in advance – like 2 years – so you can get a room. It’s very expensive. But it’s also very much worth it. Don’t let the chance pass you by, if you can do it.

It’s a great addition to a Kenya safari !

You can book at Giraffe Manor through our affiliate link with Go2Africa.com . They specialize in creating the perfect safari trip for you. Get in touch with them today to start planning.

Table of Contents

Planning a Trip to Giraffe Manor

We’re writing this guide to help you plan your trip to see these amazing giraffes. It’s hard to know what you’re getting into and whether it’s all it’s cracked up to be just by looking at their website, so we’re going to lay out all of our experiences here, so you can decide if it’s right for you.

Before we get into the specifics of the manor itself, there are a lot of little planning elements to consider.

• You must plan well in advance. Reservations fill up quickly. You can check availability here .
• You really want to stay in the main manor, and I would encourage you to keep looking until you can find the Lynn, Marlon, or Betty room available. Alternatively, Kelly, Helen, or the Finch Hatton suite, but you can only book those if you book at one of their other safari lodges too.
• We thought that one night was enough to enjoy the experience. Two would be great, but not necessary.
• You can book your ride to and from your hotel in Kenya directly with Giraffe Manor (it’s included), but make sure you’re ready to be picked up by 11am, so you don’t miss any of the short amount of time you have there. For us, this meant staying the night in Kenya overnight before our stay, rather than spending another night on safari. But it was worth it.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Where to Stay in Nairobi

The best way to prepare for your stay at Giraffe Manor is to stay a night at a nearby Nairobi hotel and plan your pick up time for 11am. We suggest the following hotel:

Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport

What is Giraffe Manor?

The Giraffe Manor in Kenya is a luxurious 1930s mansion that offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with its resident herd of endangered Rothschild giraffes. The hotel is less than an hour away from Kenya’s city center.

The Manor itself is a beautiful 19th-century manor house with a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. Inside, you’ll can find a spectacular blend of Georgian architecture and African-inspired decor, with all the modern touches needed to make your stay comfortable.

Just a little ways from the manor is the Giraffe Center, which is open to the public. You can see it from the manor. This is where you can go during the day to feed the giraffes. Manor guests get a guided tour and can go whenever they want. We’ll talk about that more later.

The giraffes have roamed around here since the 1970s when Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville first adopted an orphaned Rothschild’s giraffe called Daisy. Today, Tanya and Mikey Carr-Hartley own the manor and it has become a globally recognised hotel.

Where is Giraffe Manor?

The manor sits on 12 acres of private land, located around 35 minutes drive from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Many people will also arrive from Wilson airport, which serves many safari camps, and Giraffe Manor is 20 minutes drive south west from there.

When you book into the manor, a private shuttle to the manor is included in the cost. They will pick you up from the airport or from your accommodations in Kenya.

What’s It Like Staying at Giraffe Manor?

The experience at Giraffe Manor is unbelievable, from start to finish. When you arrive, a representative will seat you in a comfortable spot and get your situated, then take you to your room. Since every room is booked individually, you already have an assigned room.

You want to arrive as close to the check in time of noon as possible, so you can every second of your money’s worth out of the day. You’ll check into your room, then head to the patio for lunch, which is included. Our lunch was a delicious 3-course meal with starters. Drinks are included.

The Giraffe Center

After lunch, you have some time to visit the Giraffe Center. You can’t walk there yourself because there are roaming animals on the property, like the warthogs, and the giraffes, of course.

The AFEW (African Fund for Endangered Wildlife) Giraffe Center was founded in 1979 with a mission to educate school children about their incredible wildlife and environment, and the breeding program of the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe.

When you book at Giraffe Manor, you pay a donation to AFEW which goes towards their wildlife conservation projects across Kenya.

At the Giraffe Center, you can get extremely up close and personal with the giraffes. They come right up to the feeding platform and reach their long necks out to be fed by visitors. It’s amazing.

Afternoon Tea

At 5pm, there’s an afternoon tea in the front yard. You can enjoy some snacks, tea, and a meet and greet with the giraffes.

The handlers call over the giraffes with a bucket of food. Any of the interested giraffes will wander over and let you feed them pellets from the bucket. If you’re lucky you’ll get a kiss or a hug from one of them.

This is one of a few best opportunities to get photos with the giraffes. We didn’t really come prepared with outfits, but most people like to dress up so they look good in the pictures with the giraffes.

We had an hour to feed and interact with the giraffes. They eat quickly, so you are supposed to give them just one pellet at a time.

When afternoon tea is over, you will also have an opportunity to take pictures with the giraffe’s on the swing in the back yard. The handlers will help make this happen for you. It was so vey cool.

Other Manor Amenities

Guests can also explore the grounds, take a guided tour to learn more about these majestic animals, or just relax in the Manor’s gardens. On the property, you will also find a spa, a gift shop, a wellness center, and the romantic Orchid House.

For those looking for an extra-special experience, the Manor also offers guided safari tours that are sure to make your stay unforgettable.

Dinner & Drinks

Be sure to hang out in the lounge for a drink before dinner. The all-inclusive rate includes all meals and drinks, excluding premium and sparkling wines and champagnes.

Dinner is served in the main dining room, where you’ll have breakfast, or on the patio, in nice weather. If you’re really lucky, you can book the Orchid Room for a private candlelit dinner. The Orchid Room is a little greenhouse behind the manor where they grow plants. It’s free to book a private dinner there but it’s first come first serve, so reserve early!

We didn’t book the Orchid Room ourselves, but we met a really amazing couple while we were there who had booked it and they graciously invited us to join them along with another couple. The 6 of us has the most fantastic dinner there. It was a major highlight of the experience. At night, the room looks even more stunning.

Waking Up With Giraffes

Since we stayed in the Lynn room which has an outdoor terrace, we were joined bright and early at about 5:45am by a few of the resident giraffes. They are well trained to know that food is available at the rooms if they come over.

We had a basket of pellets left for us in our room the night before, so we were prepared when they arrived. It was something else seeing them dip their long necks down right into our room! We could have stayed there for hours feeding them. But alas, we eventually ran out of pellets.

Breakfast: Eat With Giraffes in Kenya

The highlight of the entire stay at Giraffe Manor is breakfast with the giraffes. The handlers will arrange where you sit and when for breakfast. You can’t reserve a specific time or table. But rest assured, they will do their best for you to make sure you have an amazing time.

We sat with our friends at a table by the main window. We were served breakfast first, then after we were done, a plate for the giraffes was set out before us and sure enough the giraffes started poking their heads in to eat from the plate.

We were able to get a ton of photos with the giraffes, feed them, and interact with them at the table. You will have about 40 minutes with the giraffes at the table before you have to rotate out and let other guests have their turn.

Giraffe Manor Accommodation

The manor itself is a beautiful colonial-style building. There are 12 rooms on the property, six manor rooms and six garden suites. All rooms come with amenities like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast (with giraffes).

The original manor house was built in 1932 and has six rooms: Betty, Daisy, Jock, Lynn, Marlon and the Karen Blixen Suite. We stayed in the Lynn Superior Room, which had ground-floor access for the giraffes in the evening and morning. So we were able to feed the giraffes from our door. In my opinion, we had the best room in the house.

The upstairs Betty Superior Room is also fantastic for seeing and feeding the giraffes in the morning. Their tall necks bring them right up to the balcony so you can feed them. There are two rooms on the upper level. The Marlon room is also great.

In 2011, a new section of the manor was created – The Garden Manor – which sits right next door. Although built 78 years later, Tanya and Mikey used reclaimed materials from the period in which the original manor was built and its design replicates that of the main house.

The Garden Manor also has six lovely guest rooms: Salma, Edd, Arlene, Helen, Kelly and the Finch Hatton Suite. The giraffes only visit the Helen, Kelly, and Finch Hatton suite. Additionally, you can only stay in the Garden Manor if you also book a stay in one of the other hotels in their collection.

How Much is Giraffe Manor?

All of the rooms at Giraffe Manor have their own cost associated. There are two family rooms – the Karen Blixen Suite, which is $3,630 usd, and the Finch Hatton Suite, which is $3267 usd (at time of writing). The price is for 2 adults and 2 children in the suite.

The Giraffe Manor room rates start at $1,062 per adult and $732 per child / sharing. It’s $1,667 for a single room. and are based on what specific room you book. The price is all-inclusive, so although it’s costly, you won’t have to spend much more while you’re there. The only other thing we spent on was tips and some small gifts we purchased at the gift shop.

You will want to come prepared to tip. The workers do everything at the manor, from getting the giraffes to interact with you, to carrying your luggage to your room, serving you at dinner, etc. So you will want to tip them. We personally tipped our person at lunch when we first were introduced and he took very good care of us throughout.

You can also place your tip in the box at the end of your stay, but then they won’t know of your appreciation for them. Plan to tip

Check updated prices for manor rooms on their website .

More FAQs About The Giraffe Manor

Still have a few burning questions about this gorgeous manor and its graceful inhabitants? Here are a few more often-asked questions and the answers.

Is it Worth Staying at Giraffe Manor in Africa?

Giraffe Manor is definitely worth staying at, if only for the giraffes. Add in its close proximity to Nairobi, as well as its great amenities and exceptional staff service, it’s a perfect choice for an unforgettable stay in Kenya. I would absolutely do it again.

How Long Should I Stay at The Giraffe Manor?

The manor is expensive, so while two or three nights is amazing to see everything and fully experience the giraffes, even one night can be enough. It all depends on your schedule and budget. Would I have stayed 2 nights and enjoyed it, absolutely. But we only stayed one and I didn’t feel like I needed to stay another.

What Is Included in The Giraffe Manor Stay?

The cost of a night’s stay at the Giraffe Manor includes accommodation, meals, drinks, afternoon tea, and giraffe encounters. Additionally, Wi-Fi access is complimentary throughout the property, as is private airport transfers from the airport in Nairobi.

Is Giraffe Manor Family Friendly?

Yes, Giraffe Manor is very family-friendly. There are plenty of activities and amenities suitable for all ages, as well as a dedicated children’s play area. The Family Suites are also perfectly suited for kids to join their parents, and you don’t pay full adult prices for children. There were actually only 2 kids there when we were staying, but they had a great time.

Can You Visit Giraffe Manor Without Staying There?

Unfortunately not. The manor is exclusively for guests staying one night or more. This is how they manage to keep crowds thin, making sure that the Rothschild giraffes aren’t stressed and that it’s never too busy.

What is The Best Time to Visit The Giraffe House?

The best time to visit the Giraffe House in Kenya is in the dry winter season (July to October), as this is when wildlife viewing conditions are at their best. However, if you’re looking for a quieter experience and don’t mind some rain, then visiting during the wet summer season (November to June) can also be a great option.

Can I Arrive Early or Leave Late?

If you are staying at one or more of their other properties (Sasaab, Solio Lodge, Sala’s Camp and/or Siruai Mobile Camp) then you can book a day room or special pass at The Retreat, which is right next door to Giraffe Manor.

Options include an Early Bird package for those arriving on early flights, a Retreat Day Pass for those wishing to use the facilities but who do not require a room or a Day Room.

If you’re just staying one night without booking elsewhere, like we were, you are not allowed to come early or leave late. Check in time is at noon and check out is at 10am the next day.

Are The Giraffes at Giraffe Manor Wild?

The giraffes that live on the grounds of the manor may look tame and be used to humans, but they are still wild animals and have free roam of the surrounding sanctuary. Keep this in mind while visiting and respect these animals while interacting with them.

The Giraffe Manor in Africa is a unique and luxurious destination that offers guests the chance to observe, interact with, and feed wild giraffes in their natural habitat. Not to mention the moments of amazement as these giraffes pop their heads into the windows of the manor.

With its close proximity to Nairobi, excellent amenities, great staff service, and beautiful gardens, it’s an ideal choice for travelers looking for an unforgettable stay. If you’re looking for an African adventure with a twist, consider adding the Giraffe Hotel to your list of must-see destinations.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

1 thoughts on “ Giraffe Manor in Kenya: What It’s Like, Cost, & More ”

Thank you for this delightful and very informative read! I hope to go there someday!

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Giraffe Manor

We're so excited to announce that we are now proudly partnered with Nairobi's Giraffe Manor

Welcome to one of the most Instagramed properties on Earth

One of the most Instagramed properties in the world, made so incredibly special and unique by Its resident herd of Rothschild Giraffe, poking their long necks in to the windows daily hoping for a treat.

We are super proud that we can now include a stay at Giraffe Manor in any of our safari itineraries so that you can enjoy the most magical setting and the most Bucket List breakfast in the world - just ask us how.

From 1930's hunting lodge to pinoneering the conservation of endangered Rothschild Giraffe in the 1970's to becoming one of the world's most iconic boutique hotels, Giraffe Manor is an absolutely spectacular addition to any of our beautiful Tanzania safari itineraries.

Waking up to breakfast with a Giraffe must be one of the most incredible and unique experiences anyone can have. Loping across the manor lawns and peering in through the large windows with their elegant necks. Encountering the manor's endangered Rothschild Giraffes at such close quarters gives a real appreciation of just how breathtaking and soulful these creatures are. Watch out for their inquisitive tongues, which can grow up to 20 inches long as they investigate what's on offer.

Enjoy afternoon tea on the terrace as the sun sets behind the Ngong Hills, accompanied by a few long legged friends.

Kick your legs in to the air on the oversized garden swing and snap a swing selfie as you feed a Giraffe.

We can happily tailor made your magical Tanzania Safari to include a little stop at Giraffe Manor.

We can't wait to share the magic with you......

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Awarded Best African Safari Company in the Travel & Tourism Awards by Luxury Life

Tripadvisor Travellers Choice Winners two years running for both 2022 & 2023

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