Giraffe Manor in Kenya: Where Guests Live Among World's Tallest Creatures (with video)
For those seeking a truly exotic, once-in-a-lifetime Out of Africa-type experience, Giraffe Manor may be just the place. Here, guests enjoy the unique chance to interact with its resident herd of Rothschild Giraffe, a rare breed which is among the world's tallest creatures. Guests have the unparalleled experience of the giraffes, with the animals vying for guests' attention at the breakfast table, the front door and even at the bedroom window. Giraffe Manor is located in 12 acres of private land only 20 kilometers from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. It is set within 140 acres of indigenous forest.
Guests interact with the giraffes throughout the day. Breakfast is served in the sun room, with its enormous windows flung open to welcome the giraffe that come and join you. Dinner is a cosy affair as the drawing room fire is lit and guests and managers gather for evening drinks. You can either chose to have a candlelit hosted meal in the dramatic wood paneled dining room or at your own table under the stars surrounded by the glow created by lanterns and candles on the terrace.
The inn offers luxurious accommodations inside a 1932-era building that was designed after a Scottish hunting lodge. Inspired by the manor's original decor, the inn's six double bedrooms feature large four poster beds, antique furnishing, striking art and spacious bathrooms. The Karen Blixen suite is ideal for families and has direct access to the courtyard which opens onto the giraffe sanctuary. Giraffe Manor's chef prepares home cooked meals, including Mount Kenya Smoked Trout pate, fillet of beef or watamu red snapper.
Guests can choose to relax in the manor's sitting room that features large picturesque windows through which they can appreciate views of the giraffes and the surrounding sanctuary. The manor's large veranda and terraces give guests the opportunity to hand feed the friendly giraffes at eye level.
If giraffes aren't enough for you, the estate is also home to many characters including warthogs, bushbuck, dik dik and more than 180 species of birds and has a striking view of the Ngong hills.
The property will be closed from April 1 to May 31 2011. Rates start at approximately $440 a night per person, which includes taxes, all meals, wine with lunch and dinner, laundry services, entrance to the Giraffe Center and some excursions.
Check out the video below to learn more about giraffes.
