How much does it cost to stay at Giraffe Manor? Is the Experience Worth the Price?

When I first started planning my dream safari to Kenya, the iconic Giraffe Manor became my obsession. The question of Giraffe Manor cost dominated my late-night research sessions as I tried to determine if this unique experience could possibly be worth the substantial investment. How much does it cost to stay at Giraffe Manor? This was the burning question I kept typing into search engines, hoping to find some secret discount or reassurance that the experience would justify the expense.

For those wondering about the exact figures, the 2025-2026 price guide reveals that room rates begin at US$ 1,168 per adult sharing and US$ 805 per child sharing. The property offers various room categories with different rates based on accommodation type and the number and age of guests. Children between 2-11 years enjoy reduced rates, while anyone 12 or older is charged the adult price. This certainly positions Giraffe Manor at the luxury end of Kenya’s accommodation spectrum.

My journey to booking Giraffe Manor began with that viral photograph everyone has seen, elegant guests enjoying breakfast while curious giraffes poke their long necks through the windows of a stately colonial manor. From the moment I first encountered that magical image, I immediately added “having breakfast with giraffes” to my bucket list. The allure was undeniable, even as I questioned whether any hotel experience could justify such a premium price tag.

After reading countless glowing reviews and seeing the enchanting photos from previous guests, I eventually convinced myself that the Giraffe Manor cost would be worth it for what promised to be a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. This was, after all, the trip I’d been dreaming about for years. Thankfully, I discovered Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris during my research, a travel company with extensive experience arranging stays at this exclusive property. Their expertise with Giraffe Manor bookings became invaluable as I navigated the complex reservation process.

With a mix of excitement and financial recklessness, I decided to embrace the splurge and worry about my bank account later. My Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris consultant had emphasized that securing a reservation well in advance was crucial, but I had still procrastinated slightly in finalizing my plans.

Credit card in hand and laptop open, I eagerly navigated to their booking page, only to face immediate disappointment. Every single date during our planned Kenya Safari Holiday visit showed as fully booked. My excitement deflated instantly. I frantically searched through every travel booking website I knew, desperately hoping to find an overlooked reservation. I even contacted my Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris representative to see if they could work some magic with their industry connections.

Nothing worked. The property was genuinely sold out across all platforms that was back in 2024. What I hadn’t realized was that Giraffe Manor, with its modest twelve rooms, requires booking 6-12 months in advance due to overwhelming demand. Unlike massive hotel chains with thousands of rooms, this boutique property fills its limited space far in advance, a fact I learned the hard way, despite the warnings from Twinkle Tours and Safaris.

My experience serves as both a cautionary tale and a testament to Giraffe Manor’s extraordinary appeal. While I wasn’t able to secure a reservation for that trip in that year, I’ve since learned that proper planning and patience is essential when attempting to book this bucket-list destination. And despite my initial disappointment, i rescheduled my Kenya safari to 2025 January since that was the only spot I could get that coincides with my work holiday vacation. Having my Giraffe Manor reservations already confirmed  which was full ten months in advance, expertly arranged through Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris who handled all the details flawlessly I am glad I finally made it. That’s why I decided to tell my story of my experience and give information on what to expect and everything else there is to say.

For those still wondering if the Giraffe Manor cost is justified, consider what you’re paying for: not just luxury accommodation, but an utterly unique wildlife interaction that exists nowhere else on earth. The price includes gourmet meals, premium beverages, transfers, access to the sanctuary’s facilities, and most importantly, the chance to form connections with the endangered Rothschild’s giraffes that call this place home. When you book through an experienced operator like Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris, they can also ensure your entire Kenya itinerary flows seamlessly around this centerpiece experience. Here is a detailed giraffe manor kenya cost breakdown as I came to understand from an experience.

I also thought apart from Giraffe manor cost breakdown I can go deeper and reveal more of the place in terms of the rooms , what you should expect so that when your planning to do your bookings you can have all the information which might come in handy.

 

Giraffe Manor Cost Breakdown

When planning a Kenya luxury safari holiday , Giraffe Manor often stands out as one of the most coveted experiences. Let me walk you through a comprehensive breakdown of the Giraffe Manor costs to help you understand what to expect when budgeting for this extraordinary experience based on my experience and what I researched in the official website.

Giraffe Manor Room Rates for 2025

Giraffe Manor offers several accommodation categories, each with different pricing structures based on the room type, size, and occupancy. For the 2025 season (valid January 1 through December 31, 2025), these are the established rates:

Superior Family Suites

The Karen Blixen Suite represents the premium accommodation option at Giraffe Manor. This spacious two-bedroom suite includes:

• Minimum room rate of $4,392 per night (accommodating 2 adults and 2 children)
• Additional charge of $566 for a third child (ages 3-11)

This suite features a master bedroom with a double bed and a second bedroom with twin beds, each with its own en-suite bathroom. The shared terrace provides excellent opportunities for giraffe interactions.

Family Suite Option

The Finch Hatton Suite offers another family-friendly option at a slightly lower price point.

• Minimum room rate of $3,953 per night (accommodating 2 adults and 2 children)
• Additional charge of $512 for a third child (ages 3-11)

This suite includes a ground-level double bed and twin beds on a mezzanine level accessed by a spiral staircase, making it particularly appealing for families with older children.

Superior Rooms

For couples or smaller groups, Giraffe Manor offers ten Superior Rooms (Betty, Daisy, Jock, Marlon, Lynn, Arlene, Kelly, Helen, Edd, and Salma), priced as follows:

• $1,284 per adult sharing
• $885 per child sharing
• $2,016 for single occupancy

These rooms vary in size and configuration, but all provide the authentic Giraffe Manor experience with colonial-era charm and elegant furnishings.

What’s Included in These Giraffe Manor Rates?

The fully inclusive rates at Giraffe Manor cover an impressive array of services and amenities:

• Arrival and departure transfers done by your kenya safari company thats Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris
• All meals, including the famous breakfast with giraffes
• House wines, beers, spirits, and soft drinks
• Laundry service
• Wireless internet access
• Entrance to the AFEW Giraffe Centre
• Access to the Orchid House dining area
• Use of The Retreat facilities during check-in and checkout times
• Activities like boules and croquet
• All applicable taxes (VAT)

Additional Costs to Consider

While the room rates are comprehensive, several extras might impact your overall budget:

• Professional guide accommodationat $185 per person per night
• Nairobi National Park game viewing vehicle at $490 (park entrance fees not included) if you choose to book for yourself
• Premium beverages (champagne, luxury spirits, and selected wines)
• Cigars
• Gratuities for staff
• Health insurance
• Massage treatments at The Retreat
• Personal shopping and souvenirs

Important Policies for Families

Giraffe Manor has specific policies regarding children that affect pricing which I believe are important for you to consider if you have children:

• Children are defined as guests aged 3-11 years
• Guests 12 years and older pay adult rates
• Infants (under 2 years) stay free of charge
• Child sharing rates in Superior Rooms remain the same whether children share existing beds or use extra beds
• Not all rooms can accommodate extra beds, so verification is required before booking
• Children occupying single rooms will be charged the full single room rate

Seasonal Closures

It’s important to note that Giraffe Manor operates with annual closure periods for maintenance:

• The Historic Manor will be closed from April 31 to May 13, 2025
• The Garden Manor will be closed from April 1 to May 31, 2025

These closure dates should be carefully considered when planning your visit, as alternative accommodation would be required during these periods.

Booking Through Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris

Many travelers find that booking through an experienced operator like Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris which is an east African safari company provides significant advantages when navigating the complexities of securing a reservation at Giraffe Manor. As a specialized east African safari travel company with established relationships with The Safari Collection (which owns Giraffe Manor), they can often provide:

• Expert guidance on the best room choices for your specific needs
• Assistance with securing reservations (which typically need to be made 6-12 months in advance)
• Seamless integration of your Giraffe Manor stay with broader Kenya safari itineraries
• Support with transfers and logistics
• Advice on maximizing your experience once on property

Understanding these costs and considerations will help you determine if this bucket-list experience aligns with your travel budget and expectations. While Giraffe Manor certainly represents a significant investment, those who visit frequently describe the experience as truly priceless, a sentiment that explains why reservations remain so difficult to secure despite the premium pricing.

 

Essential Information About Your Giraffe Manor Stay

Beyond understanding the Giraffe Manor rates and costs, there are several important policies to consider when planning your visit to this iconic Kenyan property. The following information will help you maximize your experience while navigating the practical aspects of your stay. I thought its best I alert you on what to expect when you’re around as per the guidelines.

Arrival and Departure Logistics

The Giraffe Manor check-in process begins at 12:00 noon, giving you ample time to settle in and begin interacting with the resident giraffes. Check-out time is strictly enforced at 10:00 am on your departure day unless you’ve arranged and paid for late checkout in advance. Given the high demand and boutique nature of the property, The Safari Collection reserves the right to charge for an additional night if you remain beyond check-out time which will be communicated to you by your safari company that’s Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris.

Unlike conventional hotels, Giraffe Manor functions more like a private residence without a dedicated reception area or restaurant where guests can wait outside scheduled hours. This unique characteristic contributes to its intimate atmosphere but requires careful planning. For those with awkward arrival or departure times, The Retreat (located on the same property) offers day rooms and wellness passes that provide comfortable spaces and amenities during transition periods.

Complementary Experiences and Additional Activities

When considering the overall Giraffe Manor cost, it’s helpful to understand the included experiences and optional add-ons. A particularly sought-after activity is the game viewing excursion to Nairobi National Park in the Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris dedicated 4×4 vehicle. This experience:

• Operates between 6:00 am and 10:00 am
• Accommodates up to six guests on an exclusive basis
• Typically lasts 3-4 hours
• Incurs additional costs (park entrance fees are not included in the Giraffe Manor rates)
• Cannot be combined with arrival or departure transfers

For guests arriving on early flights, the early bird breakfast option at The Retreat provides a wonderful introduction to the property, though this requires advance booking and may involve supplementary charges beyond the standard Giraffe Manor Kenya cost.

Special Occasions and Practical Matters

The enchanting setting of Giraffe Manor makes it a popular venue for weddings and celebrations. However, these events require booking the entire property on an exclusive basis for a minimum of three consecutive nights, a significant consideration when calculating the total Giraffe Manor cost for special occasions.

Practical services such as luggage storage are available for a nominal daily fee of US$ 5 per bag, with proceeds supporting the property’s eco-initiatives. Photography enthusiasts should note that professional filming or photography requests must be submitted to the marketing department for approval, as the property carefully manages its image and guest experience.

Accommodation Options and Room Configurations

Giraffe Manor features various room types to accommodate different group compositions and preferences. The property includes:

• Ten Superior Rooms (Betty, Daisy, Jock, Marlon, Lynn, Helen, Kelly, Arlene, Sala, and Salma)
• One Family Suite (Finch Hatton Suite) with ground-level double bed and mezzanine twin beds
• One Superior Family Suite (Karen Blixen Suite) with interconnected rooms

The Karen Blixen Suite accommodates two adults and two children (3-11 years) in its base rate, with additional adults charged at the superior room per-person rate. Similarly, the Finch Hatton Suite is designed for two adults and two children, though its mezzanine configuration (with 6-foot beds) limits comfortable adult occupancy to two.

Wellness Facilities and Dining Options

The Giraffe Manor Kenya cost becomes even more valuable when considering access to The Retreat’s extensive wellness facilities. Located within the same sanctuary, these amenities include a pool, gym, steam room, sauna, and hot tub, all available to manor guests during their stay within check-in and check-out hours. Additional spa services and treatments can be arranged for supplementary fees.

Dining at Daisy’s Restaurant and Bar provides another dimension to the Giraffe Manor experience. Guests enjoy complimentary house drinks and snacks throughout their stay, with an extensive menu of cocktails and cuisine available at additional cost. These charges can be conveniently added to your room tab or settled separately.

While the management strives to accommodate specific room requests whenever possible, the boutique nature of the property means that particular room assignments cannot always be guaranteed. Talk to  Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris and get all the details you need about the rooms or any other question you might be having.

 

A Detailed Look at Giraffe Manor Room Options

When planning your stay and considering the Giraffe Manor cost, understanding the distinct character and features of each room can help you select accommodations that perfectly match your preferences and needs. The property is divided into two separate buildings, the Historic Manor and the Garden Manor, each offering unique experiences and room configurations.

Historic Manor Accommodations

The original section of Giraffe Manor houses some of the most iconic rooms that have appeared in countless photographs and social media posts. These rooms typically command premium rates due to their historical significance and optimal positioning for giraffe interactions.

Betty’s Room, offers approximately 24 square meters of space with front-facing windows that provide excellent giraffe feeding opportunities. The room features a double bed oriented toward views of Nairobi. Unlike most accommodations at Giraffe Manor, Betty’s Room has a private bathroom located in the hallway rather than en-suite, equipped with both bathtub and shower facilities. The room can accommodate an infant cot upon request, though space becomes limited with this addition.

Daisy’s Room, though slightly smaller at 17 square meters, compensates with side-facing views toward the hills and its own giraffe feeding access. This room offers flexible bedding configurations with either a double or twin beds, plus the unique advantage of a private roof terrace. The modern en-suite bathroom includes a shower.

Jock’s Room, spans approximately 22 square meters and faces the front of the Historic Manor, providing prime giraffe feeding opportunities. The room features convertible bedding (double or twin arrangement) and the added charm of a fireplace—particularly welcome during cooler evenings. The en-suite bathroom includes both a shower and bathtub.

Marlon’s Room, distinguishes itself as a ground-floor accommodation with convenient terrace access for giraffe interactions. This room includes a double bed and adjoining lounge area, making it one of the more spacious standard options. The large master en-suite bathroom features a shower, with an additional compact toilet and shower accessible from the lounge area. Infant cots can be added upon request.

Lynn’s Room, represents one of the more generous Superior Room options at approximately 61 square meters (including the en-suite bathroom). This ground-floor room features flexible bedding (double or twin configuration) and a walk-out terrace. However, guests should note that giraffe feeding access from this room is limited and depends on seasonal patterns and timing.

The Karen Blixen Suite, stands as the premier accommodation in the Historic Manor at an impressive 113 square meters. This two-bedroom family suite includes an adjoining lounge with fireplace, making it ideal for families or small groups. The master bedroom contains a double bed, while the second bedroom offers twin beds. Each bedroom enjoys private en-suite facilities equipped with both bathtubs and showers. A shared south-facing terrace provides excellent giraffe feeding opportunities. Families with three children can request an additional single bed in the second bedroom.

Garden Manor Accommodations

Built in 2011, the Garden Manor provides more modern accommodations while maintaining architectural harmony with the historic structure. These rooms typically represent a slightly different price point in the overall Giraffe Manor rates structure.

Helen’s Room measures approximately 25 square meters with both front and west-facing aspects, providing good giraffe feeding opportunities. The room offers flexible bedding (double or twin configuration) and can accommodate a baby cot upon request. The en-suite bathroom includes both a shower and bathtub.

Kelly’s Room stands as one of the more spacious Garden Manor accommodations at 33 square meters. This front-facing room includes giraffe feeding access and flexible bedding options (double or twin beds), plus an extra single bed, making it one of the few rooms naturally configured for three guests. The room also features a cozy fireplace and an en-suite bathroom.

Arlene’s Room provides approximately 22 square meters of space and faces the front of the Garden Manor. Unlike many rooms, it does not have direct giraffe feeding access. The room features a double bed and en-suite bathroom with both bathtub and shower.

Edd’s Room offers approximately 29 square meters of ground-floor accommodation with a private veranda overlooking the garden terrace, though without giraffe feeding access. The room includes a double bed with potential space for an extra sofa bed to accommodate a child upon request. The en-suite bathroom features both shower and bathtub facilities.

Salma’s Room spans about 23 square meters with front-facing views overlooking the garden terrace and includes a balcony, though without direct giraffe feeding access. The room offers flexible bedding arrangements (double or twin configuration) and can potentially accommodate an additional child on a sofa bed. The en-suite bathroom includes both shower and bathtub.

The Finch Hatton Suite, at approximately 40 square meters, provides the Garden Manor’s family accommodation option. Located on the ground floor adjacent to the dining room (without giraffe feeding access), this suite features a ground-level double bed and twin beds positioned on a mezzanine/loft level accessed via spiral staircase. The loft beds are specifically designed for children due to their configuration. The suite includes an in-room fireplace and an en-suite bathroom with double shower and bathtub.

Important Booking Considerations

When evaluating Giraffe Manor Kenya costs and room options, several factors merit special attention.

The Garden Manor typically operates under different booking policies than the Historic Manor. Generally, Garden Manor rooms can only be reserved for guests who are also staying at other Safari Collection properties (Sasaab, Sala’s Camp, or Solio Lodge) for a minimum of two nights. This policy underscores the importance of planning a comprehensive Kenya safari itinerary when considering Giraffe Manor rates and availability.

If a booking at another Safari Collection property is canceled, any associated Historic Manor reservation is forfeited and becomes subject to Garden Manor availability. However, bookings made within four weeks of arrival may secure Historic Manor accommodations directly without the multi-property requirement.

The management does not permit advance reservations for specific breakfast tables with giraffe feeding access. Seating assignments are determined by the Giraffe Manor team based on various factors including safety, guest flow, and group size. Guests should note that breakfast service corresponds to accommodation location, Historic Manor guests dine in the Historic Manor dining room, while Garden Manor guests take breakfast in the Garden Manor dining room.

Understanding these detailed room features and booking nuances helps contextualize the Giraffe Manor cost structure and ensures you select accommodations that will best enhance your unique giraffe encounter experience.

 

Understanding The Retreat at Giraffe Manor

For travelers with challenging arrival or departure schedules, or those seeking additional relaxation opportunities during their stay, The Retreat at Giraffe Manor offers an elegant solution that enhances the overall value proposition when considering the total Giraffe Manor cost. This dedicated wellness facility provides various accommodation and access options that can be particularly valuable for maximizing comfort during travel transitions.

Day Room Accommodations at The Retreat

The Retreat features four specialized first-floor bedrooms designed primarily for pre- and post-travel rest periods. Each room category offers different spatial configurations and amenities, with corresponding variation in the Giraffe Manor rates:

Lily’s Room stands as the premium “Large Day Room” option, spanning an impressive 60m². This spacious accommodation faces the front of The Retreat with a balcony overlooking the Manor House and gardens. The thoughtful design includes a lounge area with single daybed, comfortable lounge chair, and dedicated desk space. The bathroom arrangement provides enhanced privacy with a separate ensuite containing both bathtub and shower, plus an additional separate toilet. With a base rate of US$1,600 for up to four guests, Lily’s Room can accommodate two additional people (adults at US$385 each or children at US$270 each).

Waridi’s Room and Harold’s Room represent the “Medium Day Room” category, each offering approximately 40m² of space. Both rooms feature front-facing balconies with Waridi overlooking the sanctuary and Manor House, while Harold provides views of trees and the AFEW giraffe centre. These rooms offer flexible bedding with either twin or king-sized configurations and include lounge areas with single day beds. The bathrooms feature open-plan shower/sink areas with separate toilets. Priced at US$880 for up to two guests, each room can welcome two additional occupants at supplementary rates (US$385 per adult, US$270 per child).

Azalea’s Room serves as the “Small Day Room” option, also measuring approximately 40m² but with a rear-facing orientation. This room features a large window and desk space overlooking the village gardens, with flexible bedding options (twin or king-sized) and two armchairs. The bathroom features an open-plan shower/sink arrangement with a separate toilet. With base pricing at US$580 for two guests, Azalea’s Room can accommodate one additional person at standard supplementary rates.

Day Room Inclusions and Exclusions

When evaluating the Giraffe Manor cost in relation to day room options, understanding exactly what’s included helps assess the value proposition:

Day room rates include arrival and departure transfers (provided collection occurs after the 10:00 am check-in and departure before the 10:00 pm check-out). Guests enjoy complimentary water, select soft drinks, a homemade snack, and access to The Retreat’s impressive wellness facilities including pool, gym, steam room, sauna, hot tub, and shower facilities.

However, day room rates exclude spa treatments, most food and beverages (beyond the complimentary in-room refreshments), cigars, excursions, and transfers specifically to Giraffe Manor. These potential additional expenses should be factored into the total Giraffe Manor Kenya cost when planning your stay.

Alternative Access Options for The Retreat

For travelers seeking wellness facilities without overnight accommodation, The Retreat offers two flexible access packages that complement the Giraffe Manor rates structure:

The Retreat Day Pass (US$275) provides access from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, including complimentary water, luggage storage, use of all wellness facilities, and AFEW Giraffe Centre access. This option excludes food and beverages, actual room use, spa treatments, transfers to other locations, excursions, and access to Giraffe Manor itself. The property limits day pass availability to a maximum of ten guests daily.

The Early Bird Package (US$275) caters specifically to early arrivals, operating from 6:00 am to 12:00 pm. This package includes continental breakfast, complimentary water, and full access to The Retreat’s facilities including the Giraffe Centre. Like the Day Pass, it excludes additional food and beverages, room use, spa treatments, excursions, and Giraffe Manor access.

For guests desiring more comprehensive meal options during their Day Room or Day Pass experience, all-inclusive supplements are available at US$100 for adults and US$80 for children, covering set lunch and dinner plus house drinks.

 

You can also read a complete guide to Giraffe Manor.

Important Booking Considerations for The Retreat

Several key policies influence the accessibility and pricing of The Retreat facilities,

Similar to the Historic Manor, The Retreat operates with portfolio-based booking restrictions. Generally, Retreat facilities can only be reserved in combination with stays at other Safari Collection properties (Sasaab, Sala’s Camp, or Solio Camp). This policy creates interesting dynamics when calculating the total Giraffe Manor cost, particularly for travelers planning wider Kenyan itineraries.

For guests staying exclusively at Giraffe Manor (within their regular check-in/check-out times), Retreat options become available up to 12 weeks before arrival. This represents a significant advantage for those with confirmed Giraffe Manor reservations who wish to enhance their experience with additional wellness facilities.

At the four-week threshold before arrival, any remaining Retreat availability opens for standalone bookings. However, these last-minute reservations exclude arrival and departure transfers unless specifically arranged at additional cost.

Unlike Giraffe Manor itself, The Retreat does not offer direct giraffe interactions in its rooms or dining areas. Guests may potentially spot giraffes or have limited interaction near the pool area, though as with all wildlife encounters, these sightings cannot be guaranteed.

The Retreat follows strict operational hours, closing daily from 10:00 pm until 6:00 am the following morning. This schedule means that extremely early morning or late night arrivals would still require alternative accommodation arrangements when calculating total Giraffe Manor Kenya costs.

Understanding these complementary facilities helps travelers develop comprehensive arrival and departure strategies that maximize comfort while optimizing the significant investment represented by the Giraffe Manor rates. For many guests, the availability of these transitional spaces enhances the overall experience and provides flexibility that justifies the premium pricing of this unique Kenyan destination.

Twinkle Star Tour and Safaris is the best Giraffe Manor safari company or rather Giraffe manor tour company that will take care of your giraffe manor bookings and take you on a safari in Kenya and offer other east Africa safari itineraries.  If your looking for kenya safari all inclusive packages, Kenya Africa vacation packages,, Kenya safari family vacation packages or kenya africa vacation packages well Twinkle Star is the go to company.