A perfect family getaway in Kenya’s Giraffe Manor

Giraffe Manor in Nairobi is a pretty spectacular place – a 1930s house, covered in foliage and set in 12 acres of private land. But we’re just interested in the neighbours – a herd of friendly Rothschild giraffes.

The manor was built in 1932 and modelled on a Scottish hunting lodge. It eventually fell into disrepair, before being purchased by Betty and Jock Leslie-Melville. They found out that the last remaining Rothschild giraffes in Kenya were facing slaughter. So they adopted one of the babies, Daisy – to join the three wild giraffes who already lived on their land. Daisy was followed by another baby giraffe, Marlon. Giraffe Manor’s conservation project and sanctuary was born.

The house was converted into a boutique hotel in the 80s. But Giraffe Manor continues to work with other wildlife parks across the world to establish a breeding programme. The programme reintroduces the Rothschild giraffe into the wild, helping to protect its future.

The herd can have as many as twelve giraffes – and they’re sociable beasties! They visit the manor most mealtimes and poke their heads through the open windows, looking for treats – much to the delight of all who stay there.

Guests are given bags of specially-formulated pellets – actually meant for racehorses – to feed the giraffes. So don’t worry, you won’t have to share your croissants.

The manor has ten luxury rooms, two of which are suites big enough to sleep a family of five. Expect four-poster beds, fireplaces, art deco details and a hefty dose of grandeur. Even the upper rooms benefit from daily giraffe visits, thanks to those long, long necks. So don’t be surprised if you wake up to a giraffe gently tapping at your bedroom window.

Giraffe Manor is a delightful place for any animal lover to stay – and it’s brilliantly family-friendly, too. Kids adore being visited by the giraffes every day, feeding and stroking them. Just be prepared for requests for a pet giraffe when you get back home.