Dreaming of a giraffe poking its head through your window at breakfast? A stay at Giraffe Manor is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it's natural to have questions before you book. We've compiled the most essential FAQs, based on the hotel's own policies, to help you plan your unforgettable visit to this Nairobi icon.

Booking & Reservations

What's the difference between the Historic Manor and the Garden Manor?

The property consists of two buildings. The Historic Manor is the original 1932 structure, featuring six rooms with classic, old-world charm. The Garden Manor is a beautifully crafted replica built in 2011, offering six additional rooms with a similar aesthetic. The giraffe experience is identical in both, as the animals freely roam between them. The key booking difference is that the Historic Manor is typically reserved for guests who are also booking a safari at another property within The Safari Collection portfolio.

How far in advance do I need to book?

Due to high demand and only 12 rooms available, it is highly recommended to book 12 to 24 months in advance, especially for travel during peak seasons (June-October and holidays). Last-minute availability is possible but rare.

What is included in the nightly rate?

The rate is fully inclusive, covering all meals (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner), house drinks (wines, spirits, beers, soft drinks), complimentary laundry, Wi-Fi, entrance to the AFEW Giraffe Centre, and access to the wellness facilities at The Retreat (pool, gym, steam room, sauna, hot tub). Transfers within Nairobi are included based on standard check-in/check-out times. For a detailed breakdown of pricing by room type, you can refer to our dedicated guide on Giraffe Manor room rates.

The Giraffe Experience

Can I guarantee interaction with the giraffes?

The Rothschild's giraffes are wild animals and therefore interactions cannot be guaranteed. However, they are accustomed to visiting the manor for feeding, and it is highly unusual for guests not to have a meaningful encounter. The most common interactions occur during breakfast and afternoon tea.

Is it ethical to feed the giraffes?

Giraffe Manor is part of a highly respected conservation program. The property was central to saving the endangered Rothschild's giraffe, whose population has grown from under 100 to over 1,000 in 50 years. The giraffes have 150 acres of indigenous forest to roam and forage naturally. The pellets provided by guests are a small supplement to their diet, and they choose to visit the manor of their own free will. A portion of every guest's fee is donated to the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW).

Can I bring my own professional photographer?

To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests, outside professional photographers are generally not permitted. The staff are experienced in helping guests capture amazing photos with their own devices. If a professional shoot is essential, a room must be booked for the photographer, and they must be pre-approved by the manor.

During Your Stay

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is after 12:00 PM and check-out is strictly by 10:00 AM. The intimate, residential nature of the manor means there is no lobby for waiting. For early arrivals or late departures, booking a Day Room or Day Pass at the adjacent Retreat facility is highly recommended.

Can non-guests visit for a meal or tour?

No. To protect the exclusive and peaceful experience for overnight guests, the manor does not allow non-residents to tour the property or dine there. The nearby Giraffe Centre offers a fantastic public opportunity to see and feed the same herd of giraffes.

What other activities are there besides the giraffes?

Guests can visit the AFEW Giraffe Centre, relax at The Retreat's pool and spa, play croquet or boules on the lawn, enjoy afternoon tea on the terrace, or arrange visits to local attractions like the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage or the Karen Blixen Museum.

Can the hotel accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, the kitchen is happy to accommodate dietary needs with advance notice, preferably provided at the time of booking.

Special Requests

Can I arrange a private or romantic dinner?

Yes, subject to availability and weather, the hotel can arrange private dining in unique locations such as the Orchid House, your room's balcony (if applicable), or in a secluded part of the garden.

We are celebrating a special occasion. Can you help?

Absolutely. The manor often surprises guests celebrating milestones with a complimentary gesture. They also have a gift list from which friends or family can purchase a item to mark the occasion; inquire with your travel agent for details.

Ready to start planning your adventure? Discover more about what makes this property so special in our complete overview of Giraffe Manor Hotel.

Photo courtesy of Giraffe Manor.