Once an old coffee estate, Rivertrees is now a charming country inn nestled in abundant foliage with the Usa River flowing by. Set in the foothills of Mt Meru, conveniently close to Kilimanjaro International Airport and a short drive to Arusha, its location proffers a wealth of natural wonders to explore. Comprising the original Farm House, an elegant River House, luxurious River Cottages and several beautifully appointed Garden Rooms, it also serves delicious garden-fresh cuisine in its stunningly set restaurant. The swimming pool and spa are tailored for relaxation, and friendly personalised service ensures a memorable stay, whether for a one-night stopover or much longer.
Discover Africa, just as it should be. Oliver’s Camp – in the remote southern reaches of Tarangire National Park – has only ten beautifully appointed safari tents in a spectacular location close to the game-dense Silale Swamps and overlooking a flood plain of the Minyonyo Pools.
Oliver’s draws its inspiration from the trailblazing camps that pioneered the early days of safari. Offering guests direct access to the dense concentration of wildlife that are found in this remote region year-round, as well as the chance to enjoy walking safaris and fly camping. Oliver’s is intimate and personal, staffed by a world-class team that has worked together for many years to perfect a safari experience that guests consistently rank among their best.
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Video
360 Panoramas
Rooms
Facilities
Activities and Services
Oliver's Camp - Exterior bedroom view
Oliver's - Camp exterior with campfire and seating
Olivers - Twin set up
Oliver's - Sundowner on the room veranda
Oliver's Camp - Guest tent bedroom
Oliver's Camp - Double vanity
Oliver's Camp - Picnic lunch
Oliver's Camp - Scenery
Oliver's Camp - Sundowners by the campfire
Oliver's - Game drive with Elephants
Oliver's - Walking safari
Oliver's - Breakfast for two on the deck
Oliver's - Dinner for two on the deck
Oliver's - Cocktails with a view on the deck
Oliver's - Main deck at sunset
Oliver's - Private dinner for two - service
Oliver's - Guest enjoying cocktails on the deck
Oliver's - Scenic view from lower deck
Oliver's - Interior upstairs and downstairs
Oliver's - Relax and reading nook
Oliver's - Scenic view from upper deck
Oliver's - Sunset cocktails with guest on deck
Oliver's - Upstairs lounging area
Oliver's - Elephant herd
Oliver's - Leopard sleeping in a tree
Oliver's - Positive Impact Twende Porini kids about to go on their first game drive
Oliver's - Positive Impact Twende Porini. Lessons on wildlife in the area
Oliver's - Views of Tarangire
Oliver's - Scenic grass plains
Oliver's - Positive Impact_Twende Porini kids on safari learning about conservation
Oliver's - Zebra crossing with baobab trees
Oliver's Camp - Elephant viewing
Oliver's
There are ten luxury tents at Oliver's Camp in total. The tents have the option of being twins or doubles. There are two triple tents available on request. The tents all feature king-sized beds, en-suite bathrooms with a lovely outdoor shower, with views of the surrounding area. Fully plumbed running water and flush loos. Hot water is always available and provided by solar heaters. The tents at Oliver's have thatched roofs and private wooden decks with day beds.
Oliver's Camp features one family tent specifically designed to accommodate two adults and two children. Larger than the usual tents, the emphasis here is on creating enough space to accommodate a family without it feeling cramped. These tents have king-sized, double or single beds available for individual guest needs. There is a bathroom with flushable toilets and an outdoor shower looking onto the surrounding views.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary)
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Shower, Verandah
Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card, Room Service
With a reputation for fantastic guiding, Oliver’s game drives take you to the heart of the action every time. Drives are offered twice daily in the cooler mornings and evenings. Most of our game drives make are in an open game-viewing vehicle – this lets you sit at different levels and gives everyone a ‘window’ seat. Our open vehicles have power points where you can recharge your devices, and are fitted with fridges to keep your drinks deliciously frosty. We do also have a closed game-viewing vehicle that may be used if available which is fitted with a cooler box for chilled beverages. Private vehicles are available at an additional cost. (Note that families with children under 12 must book a private game-viewing vehicle.)
There’s also the opportunity to see some of Tanzania’s famous ‘nightlife’, with unforgettable night drives permitted within Tarangire.
Walking is the absolute speciality of Oliver's Camp. The privilege of walking in these natural areas gives you an exhilarating feeling of adventure. Although you'll usually get close to large mammals such as elephant, giraffe, buffalo or even lion, walking safaris are very safe. The experienced guides at Oliver's Camp and an armed national park ranger will accompany you on every walk. Walking safaris can take an hour or a whole morning or afternoon.
You’ll find Oliver’s Camp in the remote south-eastern reaches of the Tarangire National Park. It’s perfect for families with a longing for adventure. Oliver’s Camp can accommodate a family of up to 4 with children 5 years and over. Your family will stay in a comfortable tent with en suite facilities and an outside bucket shower. Game viewing at Oliver’s is excellent and includes game drives (night and day) and walking safaris in the company of superb guides.
Experience the best game viewing activity from a bird's view. (additional cost)
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 15
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
The Highlands | Ngorongoro Crater
18 Jul 2018 - 20 Jul 2018
The Highlands redefines the Ngorongoro experience. Set on the edge of the mountain forest hugging the Olmoti Crater to the north of Ngorongoro Crater, The Highlands strikes a perfect balance between a true wilderness experience and a stylish, contemporary escape. Experience the highlands of the wild Ngorongoro Conservation Area surrounding the camp, home to buffalo, smaller predators, and majestic moorland scenery. Follow ancient Maasai trails to the rim of the Olmoti Crater and visit local communities to catch a glimpse into the traditional Maasai way of life that has defined this corner of East Africa for centuries. The famous Ngorongoro Crater is easily accessible from camp, while the setting ensures maximum privacy, a rich adventure, and a range of activities not possible elsewhere in Ngorongoro.
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360 Panoramas
Rooms
Facilities
Activities and Services
The Highlands - Aerial View of Main Area and CampThe Highlands - Aerial View of Main Area and Camp
The Highlands - Double Room with Beautiful ViewsThe Highlands - Double Room with Beautiful Views
The Highlands - View from the LoungeThe Highlands - View from the Lounge
The Highlands - Bedroom ViewThe Highlands - Bedroom View
The Highlands - Lounge Dome ExteriorThe Highlands - Lounge Dome Exterior
The Highlands - Views from Tent BalconyThe Highlands - Views from Tent Balcony
The Highlands - Lounge Dome InteriorThe Highlands - Lounge Dome Interior
The Highlands - Cozy Lounge with Wood Burning StoveThe Highlands - Cozy Lounge with Wood Burning Stove
The Highlands - View of Mezzanine Beds - Family Room LayoutThe Highlands - View of Mezzanine Beds - Family Room Layout
The Highlands - BathroomThe Highlands - Bathroom
The Highlands - Wood Finished Suite Bathroom with Double VanityThe Highlands - Wood Finished Suite Bathroom with Double Vanity
The Highlands - Exterior of Done Tent, Showing Off the Deck and Views into the ForestThe Highlands - Exterior of Done Tent, Showing Off the Deck and Views into the Forest
The Highlands - Spa FacilitiesThe Highlands - Spa Facilities
The Highlands - SaunaThe Highlands - Sauna
The Highlands - Guest Enjoying a Glass of Champagne at the Hot TubThe Highlands - Guest Enjoying a Glass of Champagne at the Hot Tub
The Highlands - Aerial View of the Main AreaThe Highlands - Aerial View of the Main Area
The Highlands - Starry Dome at NightThe Highlands - Starry Dome at Night
The Highlands - Buffalo in the NgorongoroThe Highlands - Buffalo in the Ngorongoro
The Highlands - Cultural ExperienceThe Highlands - Cultural Experience
The Highlands - ElephantsThe Highlands - Elephants
The Highlands - Game DriveThe Highlands - Game Drive
The Highlands - Guests Enjoy a Cultural Experience at Women's Beading CentreThe Highlands - Guests Enjoy a Cultural Experience at Women's Beading Centre
The Highlands - Ngorongoro LandscapeThe Highlands - Ngorongoro Landscape
The Highlands - Lion Sighting on a Game DriveThe Highlands - Lion Sighting on a Game Drive
The Highlands - Dome Tent InteriorThe Highlands - Dome Tent Interior
The Highlands - View of the CampThe Highlands - View of the Camp
The Highlands - Olmoti Nature WalkThe Highlands - Olmoti Nature Walk
The Highlands - Masaai Village VisitThe Highlands - Masaai Village Visit
The Highlands - Walking in the Shadow of Ol Doniyo LengaiThe Highlands - Walking in the Shadow of Ol Doniyo Lengai
The Highlands - Hippos Having a SplashThe Highlands - Hippos Having a Splash
The Highlands - Honeymoon Suite View with FireplaceThe Highlands - Honeymoon Suite View with Fireplace
The Highlands - Honeymoon Dome Hot Tub at SunsetThe Highlands - Honeymoon Dome Hot Tub at Sunset
The Highlands - Champagne Service at the Hot TubThe Highlands - Champagne Service at the Hot Tub
The Highlands - Family Dome The Highlands - Family Dome
The Highlands
The Highlands has six large, luxury guest tents with fantastic views stretching to the Gola Mountains. The domes have the option of being twins or doubles with several having a mezzanine available for a third bed. The tents all feature king-sized beds, en-suite bathrooms with separate flush toilet and double-headed plumbed shower. Each tent also has a wood burning fireplace and plenty of cosy blankets and rugs for warmth in the colder months.
The Highlands features one family tent specifically designed to accommodate two adults and two children. The main dome is a standard double with a covered walkway leading to a smaller dome with twin beds and en-suite shower room for the children.
The Honeymoon dome emphasises privacy, rest, and relaxation, with a king-sized bed, en-suite bathroom with a double headed shower, as well as wood burning fire place for warmth in the colder months. In addition, there is a seating area, large elevated deck, and an outdoor hot tub which looks out over the beautiful landscape of Ngorongoro.
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Malaria Free, Spa
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fireplace, Hair Dryer, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Verandah
Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card, Room Service
Enjoy a game drive in one of the most game-rich areas in the world, the Ngorongoro Crater. Explore the vast 300km2 floor with an experienced guide and stop for lunch in a shady spot under the trees, maximising your time in this unforgettable landscape. Our seven-seater closed vehicles are fitted with power points so you’re able to charge your devices, as well as a fridge to keep your drinks deliciously frosty.
The Olmoti climb follows an ancient Maasai cattle trail through mountain forest, grasslands and rocky outcrops. Make the most of outstanding birding opportunities and the chance to see a vast array of butterfly species. At the top, you are rewarded with a magnificent view of the crater below.
Descend into the Empakaai crater accompanied by an NCA ranger and walk to the sparkling soda lake on the crater floor, famous for the pink flamingo that congregate on its shores. Because of the camp’s proximity to Empakaai, it is the only property that gives you the opportunity to make this a half-day excursion.
Guests will have the opportunity to join a Maasai staff member on a visit to a local community. Many of our staff members are drawn from the surrounding communities and are always eager to share their experiences, providing a richer understanding of the culture that defines this corner of East Africa. Guests will be invited to a Maasai boma to gain an insight into the traditional cattle-herding practices and school visits will also be available depending on the time of year.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Luxury Tented Camp
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 8
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Known for its superb locations during the Great Migration, Olakira Migration Camp also boasts beautiful stargazing tents with 270-degree views from your bed. Olakira immerses itself in the Great Migration, moving twice a year to follow the herds, ensuring a front-row seat to nature’s greatest spectacle. The nine spacious tents with en suite bathrooms and fully plumbed showers provide the perfect retreat after a day of adventure.
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360 Panoramas
Rooms
Facilities
Activities and Services
Olakira Camp - Stargazing tent
Olakira Camp - Tent view from the lounge area
Olakira Camp - Family tent with en suite bathroom
Olakira Camp - Bed on wheels, rolled out to the stargazing tent extension
Olakira Camp - Bird
Olakira Camp - Bush breakfast with giraffes
Olakira Camp - Buffalo
Olakira Camp - Bush breakfast
Olakira Camp - Guest enjoying sundowners
Olakira Camp - Elephants
Olakira Camp - Hippos fighting
Olakira Camp - Landscape
Olakira Camp - Morning wake up call with freshly prepared coffee
Olakira Camp - The vegetable farm which supports our Northern Serengeti Camps
Olakira Camp - Vegetable garden
Olakira Camp - The Great Migration
Olakira Camp -Twende Porini on a game drive
Olakira Camp - Watching the milky way at night from the stargazing tent
Olakira Camp -The Great Migration river crossing
Olakira Camp - Wildebeest
Olakira - Family room, main bedroom looking down the corridor to the additional room
Olakira - Elephant in camp
Olakira - Mess tent
Olakira - Hot Air Balloon
Olakira - Wildebeest sunset
Olakira - Leopard
Olakira Migration Camp
Olakira’s nine tents offer a modern take on the vintage charm of East Africa. Each has a king-sized bed (twin beds are available) complete with rich linens, an under-cover veranda with comfortable chaise longue, and en-suite bathroom and dressing area with plumbed showers and flushing toilets.
Olakira Mobile Camp features 2 family or triple tents. These tents are spacious and have king sized, double and single beds to suit guests individual needs while staying at Olakira Camp. The tents also feature en-suite bathrooms, flushable toilets and plumbed showers. The tents also have incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle Available
Room Facilities
Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card, Room Service (24 hours)
Wildlife viewing and bird watching game drives are offered twice per day. Experienced guides encourage guests to see and experience the Serengeti through their eyes, sharing a world of small and large wonders that only they truly know and understand. Guests can arrange full days in the bush with picnic lunches or shorter excursions returning to enjoy the tranquility of camp.
Balloon safaris are a romantic and evocative way of experiencing the wilderness of East Africa, as you silently fly over the plains teeming with herds of wildlife in the early morning. Typically, a balloon safari begins around 6 am and lasts for around 1-2 hours. Balloon safaris (additional cost) take off from designated sites in the nearby Ndutu Area. The safari is followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush, a fitting end to a memorable flight in the wild. (At an additional cost)
Experience the wild while being able to give back to the community and experience the true life of the Tanzania inhabitants.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Mobile Camp
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 9
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Rekero | Masai Mara National Reserve
23 Jul 2018 - 25 Jul 2018
Deep within Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve, Rekero offers a spectacular location from which to see the Great Migration as the wildebeest thunder across the river just outside camp.
This traditional East African camp evokes the romance of safaris from a bygone era. The elegant tents form a tranquil oasis perched strategically above the mighty Talek River. The sweeping views from camp take in the surrounding plains, which support some of the greatest concentrations and diversity of wildlife in Africa. The cherry on top is the warm hospitality of our team and our world-renowned game-viewing guides with years of expertise – in such good hands you are ensured an incomparable Masai Mara safari experience.
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360 Panoramas
Rooms
Facilities
Activities and Services
Rekero Camp - Family Tent BathroomRekero Camp - Family Tent Bathroom
Rekero Camp - Kids Room in the Family TentRekero Camp - Kids Room in the Family Tent
Rekero Camp - Main Bedroom in the Family TentRekero Camp - Main Bedroom in the Family Tent
Rekero Camp - Main Bedroom in the Family TentRekero Camp - Main Bedroom in the Family Tent
Rekero’s nine spacious tents are laid out along the edge of the Talek River under a network of shady trees. The suites are designed in classic safari style with a fresh, contemporary edge. Each tent has a fully plumbed en-suite bathroom with running hot-water shower and flushing toilet. To make the suites even more comfortable, each tent has a large private veranda with an inviting day bed or couch where you can take in a view of the river.
Two family tents are available at Rekero, featuring a king-sized bed (twin beds are available), 3 single beds and a fully plumbed en-suite bathroom with hot running shower and flushing toilet. The tents are in a unique location offering stunning views of the Talek River and its riverine forest. Guests can enjoy the tranquillity of the bush while relaxing on their private verandas.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Private Vehicle Available
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card, Room Service
Shared vehicle game drives are available from Rekero in the morning, afternoon or as a full day option. The game drives can be tailored to your particular interest but, for enhanced flexibility, booking a private vehicle is recommended. On the other hand, you can take the day off, sit back and listen to the bush chorus as you read a book or relax in camp enjoying the views from the deck.
For those keen to get in some early morning game viewing or maximise their time watching game, our camp chef can prepare a delicious packed breakfast or lunch. Leave camp with the rising sun and enjoy a packed breakfast or lunch to maximise your game-viewing time.
Balloon safaris are a romantic and iconic way of experiencing the wilderness of East Africa, as you fly silently over the plains teeming with herds of wildlife in the early morning. Typically, a balloon safari begins around 6 am and lasts for around 1 hour. Balloon safaris (additional cost) take off from designated sites and are followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush - a fitting end to a memorable flight in the wild. (At an additional cost)
At Rekero you are just 50 meters away from one of the regular wildebeest migration crossing points, where the herds of zebra and wildebeest cross the Talek River. Families with children of 5 years can stay in our two airy family tents with full en-suite facilities. Families have a personal game-viewing vehicle and highly-skilled guide complete with amazing bush-wise facts, anecdotes and stories that will keep the kids entertained for hours.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
5 Star
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 9
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Giraffe Manor | Nairobi
25 Jul 2018 - 26 Jul 2018
Giraffe Manor is an exclusive boutique hotel, set in 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest in a peaceful suburb of Nairobi. This elegant hotel is famous for its resident herd of Rothschild's giraffes who visit morning and evening, poking their long necks into the windows in the hope of a treat. It is the only place in the world where you can enjoy the breath taking experience of hand feeding and photographing giraffes over the breakfast table and at afternoon tea. The Rothschild’s species of giraffe was once highly endangered, but Giraffe Manor has long been part of a breeding programme which has successfully grown their numbers in the wild. With its stately façade, elegant interiors, green gardens, sunny terraces and delightful courtyards, Giraffe Manor offers a unique blend of world class hospitality with bucket-list giraffe experiences unlike anywhere else. A stunning swimming pool, spa rooms, hot tub, steam rooms, sauna and gym are available to guests at The Retreat which right next door on the same forested giraffe sanctuary.
Giraffe ManorCredit: Thandiwe MuriuCourtyard separating the main manor and garden manor
Giraffe Manor Credit: Robin MooreGiraffe delighted to receive a tasty pellet
Giraffe ManorCredit: Thandiwe MuriuDinner setup in the courtyard
Giraffe ManorCredit: Thandiwe MuriuAfternoon tea treats only at Giraffe Manor
Giraffe ManorCredit: Thandiwe MuriuBreakfast in the main manor
Giraffe ManorCredit: Thandiwe MuriuMorning Feeding from Betty's Room
Giraffe ManorCredit: Thandiwe MuriuArlene's Room is as cosy as it looks
Giraffe ManorCredit: Thandiwe MuriuDaisy's room as a twin
Giraffe ManorCredit: Thandiwe MuriuMarlon's room with a balcony view
Giraffe ManorCredit: Brian SiambiDaisy's Cafe
Giraffe ManorCredit: Brian SiambiGym at The Retreat
Giraffe ManorCredit: Brian SiambiSauna steam hot tub at The Retreat
Giraffe ManorCredit: Brian SiambiPool at The Retreat
Giraffe ManorCredit: Brian SiambiWellness at The Retreat
Giraffe Manor
Betty-the-giraffe was born in 2000 and came to Giraffe Manor in 2002. She is one of the smallest and prettiest giraffes here but she is also the shyest. Betty is named after Betty Leslie-Melville, otherwise known as “The Giraffe Lady”. Betty Leslie-Melville and her husband Jock purchased the manor in the 1970s and she always said that the purchase of the stately home in a leafy suburb of Nairobi changed her life. The same week that the couple moved in to the manor, they learned about the plight of the Rothschild’s giraffe and decided to do whatever they could to conserve them. Today, the breeding and conservation programme that continues on the grounds of the manor remains Betty’s legacy.
In the room named after Betty, you will find Betty’s portrait hanging on the wall. It is a lovely, 32 square-metre south-facing room in the original manor house which was built in 1932. It has a king sized bed, fireplace and adjoining balcony from which the giraffes can be fed. The en-suite bathroom remains to this day in its original, quirky Art Deco style. We have opted not to modernise it as we prefer to embrace the period feel and protect the heritage of the building since so few tributes to Kenya’s past architecture remain. This room cannot be made into a twin and is therefore ideal for couples.
Daisy II was named after the original Daisy Rothschild, who was hand-raised by Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville. Her last calf, Ibrahim, was born in October 2011. Helen, her daughter, was born right here in front of the manor in August 2009. She also had other calves including Frank who was released at two years of age into Lake Nakuru National Park in December 2008. The Leslie-Melvilles wrote a book about their experience with the first giraffe, “Raising Daisy Rothschild”, which became an international bestseller and helped to raise money to move the last of the extremely endangered Rothschild’s herd to the safety of Kenya’s national parks. There have since been two more Daisys at the manor and it is Daisy IV who remains with us today. She was born in August 2009 and is identifiable by her right ear which is missing its pointed tip.
Daisy’s room is approximately 24 square-metres in size and has westward views towards the Ngong Hills. It is one of only two rooms at Giraffe Manor with a balcony from which you can feed the giraffes when they visit in the early morning looking for treats. The room can accommodate either a couple or two singles (can be a double or a twin). The en-suite facilities consist of twin sinks and a spacious shower.
Jock-the-giraffe was named after Jock Leslie-Melville; he lived to be 22 years-old, 19 feet tall and was responsible for fathering over twenty calves, most of which have now been successfully released into Kenya’s national parks. He sadly passed away in July 2009. This lovely south-facing room is still frequented by giraffes looking for treats in the early morning hours. There are pellets in the room from which the giraffes can be fed from the window just like the Leslie-Melvilles once did with the very first giraffes they raised at the manor. From Jock’s room you can also see the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) Giraffe Centre and headquarters, which was founded by Jock when he bought the manor in the 1970s.
Jock’s room is approximately 28 square-metres in size and can accommodate either a couple or two singles (double or a twin). It has a fireplace and both a bathtub and shower in the en-suite facilities as well as twin sinks.
Back in 1932 when the manor was first built as a private residence, the rooms were naturally created according to the original family’s needs and in keeping with the style of a traditional Scottish hunting lodge. Some rooms were large and stately, whilst others were more modest in size. Marlon’s room is a combination of what used to be two small children’s or nanny bedrooms. Once upon a time, these two rooms were known to our guests as Lynn and Marlon. However, in June of 2019 we removed the wall in order to create a delightfully spacious single room that is now the new and upgraded Marlon.
This 36 square-metre bedroom has twin beds that can be converted into a large double bed. There is also an adjoining sitting room with a sofa that can convert into a bed for a child. An east-facing balcony at the foot of the master bed offers guests the opportunity to feed our elegant, long-necked friends as they pass by. It’s the perfect giraffe friendly height! The spacious master bathroom has a shower and there is another compact shower and toilet at the opposite end of the room, ideal for an accompanying child. Guests who stay in Marlon enjoy the privilege of staying in the room named after one of the manor’s original giraffes. Her namesake was everyone’s favourite godfather, Marlon Brando, a friend of the previous Giraffe Manor owners.
Lynn’s room is named after a giraffe who was, for many years, the guardian of our herd of Rothschild’s giraffes. Born in 1996, she was blessed with five calves whilst here at the sanctuary. We loved her kind, solid and reliable nature. Lynn-the-giraffe, who sadly died in 2015, was named after Lynn Sherr, an award-winning news correspondent for the ABC news programme 20/20. An avid admirer of giraffes, she has often stayed at the Manor. Sherr’s book, ’Tall Blondes’, illustrates her love and knowledge of the animals and, in our view, is the definitive work on giraffe.
The room of the same name is located on the ground floor of the main manor and, though one finds it hard to imagine now, it was once the original manor house kitchen. The space was cleverly converted into a beautiful 47 square-metre room in 2019 with a decadent en-suite bathroom including bathtub, shower and twin sinks. The bed can convert between a double or two singles and the room can be accessed via the old service staircase or from the ground level for guests who may have mobility challenges. There is a small veranda with access to a larger, covered outdoor seating area where guests can enjoy feeding the giraffes who amble past.
Karen Blixen came to Kenya from Denmark to marry her friend, Baron Bror von Blixen Fincke, and start a dairy farm. However, when she arrived in the country she found, much to her surprise, that the Baron had invested in coffee instead. Whilst her attempts at growing coffee failed, her courage and stamina earned her enormous respect from those around her. The Danish government gave Blixen’s house to the Kenyan government as an independence gift in 1964. In 1985 when her autobiography ‘Out of Africa’ became an Academy Award-winning Hollywood film, the house was turned into a museum.
The 113 square-metre Karen Blixen room at Giraffe Manor is located on the top floor of the main manor house. Its spacious balcony enjoys lovely south-facing views and provides guests with the opportunity to feed the giraffes in the early morning hours. This two-bedroomed suite – the largest of all the rooms at the manor – was rebuilt and moved to its new location in 2019. Each bedroom has its own en-suite facilities with bathtub, shower and twin sinks. The master bedroom has a king-sized four poster bed, whilst the second bedroom has two single four poster beds and a small daybed which can accommodate a young child. The room also has a spacious lounge with a fireplace and a writing desk. This delightful suite is adorned with a little piece of history; a dressing table and wardrobe that were both from Karen Blixen’s original guest bedroom. The mother of Jock Leslie-Melville (who bought the manor in the 1970s) was a friend of Karen’s and the furniture was given to her as a parting gift when Karen returned to Denmark in 1931.
Helen-the-giraffe was born in front of the manor on 1st August 2009 but she sadly passed away in May 2015. Helen was a natural leader but she was also extremely naughty! She was the daughter of Daisy II. Helen was named after a catholic sister who was a friend of Betty Leslie-Melville who bought the manor with her husband Jock in the 1970s and began the giraffe breeding programme. Sister Helen was based in Tanzania and was responsible for bringing Betty to Africa for the first time. At 43 square-metres, this large corner room in the Garden Manor is one of the most spacious and is often visited by hungry giraffes looking for treats in the morning. Guests who stay here are most welcome to feed them from Helen’s windows before breakfast. The room has two four poster beds which can be put together to make a large double bed or separated for two singles. The room is large enough to accommodate a baby cot if required upon request. The en-suite facilities consist of twin sinks, a bathtub and shower. Helen’s room has views towards the Ngong Hills to the west as well as southward views over the giraffe sanctuary and forest. On a very clear day, one can even see Mount Kilimanjaro’s snowy peak in the distance from this room.
Kelly-the-giraffe was born in Nakuru National Park and was brought to the Giraffe Centre in 2002. She is nicknamed Grace Kelly due to her aloof and graceful nature! She is easily recognisable due to her light coat and large ossicone on her forehead. She is often the first to arrive for treats and the last to leave and she has become infamous as the resident “head-butter” so be careful to always stay in front of her. Kelly was named after Kelly O’Connell, an avid US-based wildlife supporter and one of the directors of The African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW). Kelly’s room is located upstairs in the Garden Manor, is approximately 45 square-metres in size and is beautifully appointed with traditional cane furnishings and a striking stained-glass wall in the bathroom. The room has three single beds, two of which can be put together to accommodate a couple if preferred. It also has a fireplace and views towards the south over the sanctuary forest. The en-suite facilities consist of a bathtub, shower and twin sinks. Guests can feed giraffes from Kelly’s window as they often come to visit this room in the early morning hours before breakfast.
The giraffe named Arlene was born in June 1994 but sadly passed away due to natural causes in early April 2012. She was petite in size but that did not deter her from sharing her affection with visitors. Arlene was named after Arlene Burzinski who was head of the British Airways Conservation projects which provide the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) with a tremendous amount of support. Although Burzinski has left British Airways, she continues to be on the board of directors at AFEW. Arlene’s room is approximately 28 square-metres in size and is located on the upper floor of the Garden Manor. Its quirky-shaped bathroom with bathtub, shower and vintage toilet, along with its cosy feel, make it a favourite of the Giraffe Manor team. The room has a king-sized four poster bed so is ideal for couples. It overlooks the courtyard between the main manor house and the Garden Manor with views beyond to the sanctuary forest. The giraffes do not have access to Arlene but the room offers wonderful views of the giraffes when they come to the manor for breakfast in the morning. It is worth noting that the stairway up to Salma’s room is a little bit steep and thus not ideal for guests with less mobility.
Salma-the-giraffe was born here at Giraffe Manor in November 2011. She is Betty’s daughter and although she is friendly, she is also a bit shy and we attribute this to the fact that she was attacked by a lion that had wandered away from Nairobi National Park when she was only a year old. Salma still bears the scars of this attack and is one tough lady who has also survived the unfortunate loss of two calves, both of whom died shortly after they were born. Salma’s room is amongst the newest rooms at the manor having been recently built and added to the Garden Manor section of the property in April 2017. It is located on the top floor of the Garden Manor and enjoys south-facing views over the lunch courtyard and sanctuary forest beyond. The room is 35 square-metres and can be either a double or a twin. It also has a sofa which converts to a bed that is suitable for a child if needed. The en-suite facilities consist of a bathtub, shower and single sink. Salma has a private balcony with chairs and table from where guests can enjoy wonderful views of the giraffes approaching the manor in the early morning. Although the giraffes do not have access to Salma’s room, it is a quiet room offering privacy and understated comfort to guests who need to catch up on some rest after a long flight or busy safari. It is worth noting that the stairway up to Salma’s room is a little bit steep and thus not ideal for guests with less mobility.
Edd-the-giraffe, son to Jock and Lynn, was born here at Giraffe Manor in July 2011 and is now the dominant male and father to all the young calves presently roaming the sanctuary grounds. He enjoys being fed from Jock’s room more than anywhere else and is a gentle giant who will happily welcome a hug in exchange for a few pellets. He is easily recognisable as the largest giraffe here and by the way his offspring hurry out of the way in deference to him when he arrives on scene. Edd’s room is amongst the newest rooms at the manor having been recently built and added to the Garden Manor section of the property in April 2017. It is a ground-floor room of 39 square-metres with striking stained-glass windows above an enormous super-king-sized bed. There is also a sofa in the room which can pull out into a bed for a child if needed. The en-suite facilities consist of a corner bathtub, a large double shower and twin sinks. Although the giraffes do not have access to Edd’s room, guests can enjoy the room’s outdoor veranda area furnished with its own private bar.
In 1911, Denys Finch Hatton travelled to British East Africa with money left to him by his deceased uncle. He bought some land on the western side of the Rift Valley near to what is now Eldoret. He met Karen Blixen at the Muthaiga Club in 1918 and when Karen got divorced in 1925, Denys moved into her house where he lived until a few weeks before his final flight in May 1931 when he crashed his beloved Gypsy Moth in Tsavo National Park. As per Finch Hatton’s wishes, Blixen buried him in the Ngong Hills. The room named after him is on the ground floor of the Garden Manor from where you’ll often see the legs of our spotted residents when you open the curtains in the early morning as they come looking for treats from the rooms above and the adjoining dining room. This ground-floor room of 74 square-metres has a king-sized bed and two single beds in a loft area which is accessed by a small spiral staircase. There is also a small day bed which can accommodate a third child if needed. The en-suite facilities have a uniquely large double-headed shower, twin sinks and a bathtub. There is a fireplace which keeps the space wonderfully warm on the chillier Nairobi nights and a small seating area.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Spa, TV Room
Room Facilities
Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fireplace, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Services
Credit Card
Waking up to breakfast with a giraffe is a unique and unforgettable experience. Depending on where you are staying, you will have breakfast either in the main manor or in the Garden Manor breakfast room, but don’t worry, the giraffes know exactly where to find you. Watch out for their long inquisitive tongues as they investigate what’s on offer; luckily, it’s nutritious dried pellets of grass that they’re after, and not your pancakes!
A traditional afternoon tea at the manor is a delightful occasion not to be missed. Relax in the tranquil gardens with a giraffe or two in view, as you enjoy a tasty assortment of cookies, cakes, sandwiches, scones and fruit platters. There will be plenty of opportunities to feed and interact with the giraffes during this experience and the team are adept at helping everyone snap the perfect photo memory.
Included in your stay at the manor is access to the AFEW Giraffe Centre which is a gentle stroll across the front lawn of the house. The centre has some interesting background information about the rare Rothschild’s giraffes and a small nature trail for stretching your legs.
Glide through our 21 metre infinity pool which looks out over the giraffe sanctuary. Our lovable herd of Rothschild’s giraffes are able to wander up to the end of the pool, so you might have a long-legged spectator or two! The poolside deck with sun loungers is a lovely space for relaxation and listening to the birdsong floating down from the surrounding trees.
Unwind after a long journey or at the end of an exciting safari adventure in our soothing spa area complete with a traditional sauna, steam room and bubbling hot tub for you to enjoy. You can also utilise the fully equipped gym that looks out onto the garden and has everything you need for a full-body workout.
The Retreat’s spa offers a range of massage and beauty treatments designed to restore your body’s natural balance and soothe away your stress. We use products by Healing Earth, a premium organic brand inspired by ancient African healing traditions.
Fragrant and filled with light, the orchid house is a delightful hidden corner of the manor. Reading, meditating or sketching one of the 150 orchids that grow there can be a soothing escape. If a romantic, candlelit dining experience amongst the foliage appeals to you, then we would love to make it happen. Please note that this activity is subject to availability and may not always be possible.
Visit Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage on the edge of Nairobi National Park where you can foster a baby elephant and watch the keepers feed and interact with them. Elephant adoption costs US$ 50 (per couple adopting) and foster parents are sent regular updates and photos of their elephant. Visiting hour takes place daily at 11:00 am and must be booked in advance via their website. Visiting requires a donation of US$ 20 per adult or US$ 5 for children under 12, payable in cash on the day of your visit.
In addition to the donation, you will also be required to pay full entry fees for Nairobi National Park where the orphanage is located. This is done via the online government platform e-Citizen using a Visa/Mastercard and your guide can help you to complete this on the morning of your visit.
Enjoy a game of chess at any time. We have a lovely handmade chess board, which of course features giraffes, as well as lions, cheetah, zebras and rhinos in place of the traditional figures!
Our luscious lawns are perfectly suited to a leisurely game of croquet or boules, and we have both here at the manor. Over at The Retreat, we have giant Jenga which is great fun for all the family. Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you in setting up the games. They are best enjoyed during the daytime, when the giraffes are out browsing in the sanctuary.
Daisy’s Café is located at The Retreat, our wellness centre right next door to Giraffe Manor. Here you’ll find a vibrant menu of freshly prepared snacks and meals as well as a fully stocked bar. Our expert chef loves to use nutritious, locally sourced ingredients (many of which are grown in the veggie garden) to create nourishing farm to fork style dishes. Dine al fresco in the leafy surroundings of our garden terrace, or under the vaulted ceilings of the café. All food and drinks consumed at Daisy’s are charged as extras to Giraffe Manor guests and are payable direct or can be added to your room bill.
KAREN BLIXEN MUSEUM
Step back in time at the Karen Blixen Museum, which offers a glimpse into Kenya’s history. Once the farmhouse of Baroness Karen Blixen and her Swedish Husband, Baron Bror von Blixen Fincke, the house gained international fame through the Oscar-winning film ‘Out of Africa’ which is based on her autobiography of the same name. The museum provides guided tours of the house and beautifully serene grounds and gives you a sense of the style of Karen Blixen’s home with a number of original pieces of furniture still in place. There is a small gift shop and stunning views over the Ngong Hills. This visit is short, but worth it if you have an interest in Kenya’s past.
AFRICAN HERITAGE HOUSE
This one-of-a-kind museum gallery is packed with arts and crafts from communities all over Africa and includes paintings, beadwork, textiles and carvings. Built in the 1970s, the house has a unique history and became one of the first pan-African galleries when it was co-founded by American Alan Donovan together with the former vice-president of Kenya, Mr. Joseph Murumbi and his wife. Enjoy a tour of the house and grounds and take in the captivating views over Nairobi National Park. Tours must be pre-booked and can include meals if desired. Please note that credit cards are not accepted.
NAIROBI NATIONAL MUSEUM
Visit the Nairobi National Museum for an education in Kenya’s wonderfully rich heritage. Afterwards, you can take a stroll through the museum’s botanical gardens. This activity takes up half a day as the museum is in a different area of Nairobi to Giraffe Manor, so travel there can take up to an hour depending on traffic. The museum contains a fabulous and extensive collection of stuffed birds, so worth a visit for any budding ornithologists.
MATBRONZE ART GALLERY & FOUNDRY
Matbronze Art Gallery & Foundry features a display of over 600 hand cast bronze sculptures by wildlife artist Denis Mathews. From tiny lion cub paw prints to life sized crocodiles, the sculptures are impressive and fascinating to look at in their accurate representation of a diverse range of Kenya’s wildlife. There is also an art gallery exhibiting a selection of local artists and a delightful garden café serving delicious homemade snacks and meals.
CIRCLE ART GALLERY
African art is hitting the global art scene in a big way. The Circle Art Agency is Nairobi’s premier modern art gallery and offers a fantastic outing for collectors and enthusiasts alike. We recommend pre-booking your visit. Avid art enthusiasts can also book a private appointment to visit the gallery if the opening times are unsuitable, although this must be booked in advance and is subject to availability.
GoDOWN ARTS CENTRE
A fun art studio to visit exhibiting a range of artwork in different media from local artists, including fine arts, block print, etching and palette knife painting. There are currently five artists in residence who you can meet, each of whom create, exhibit and sell their work from here. If there is a particular artist you would like to meet, then we recommend you call ahead of time to ensure they’re available during your visit.
SHOPPING IN NAIROBI
Indulge in a little retail therapy and discover some of our talented local artisans. Shopping in Nairobi is fun and we know exactly where to find all manner of locally crafted goodies right on our doorstep. From beaded leather belts and sandals to beautifully carved wooden bowls, jewellery, traditional masks, woven baskets, Maasai blankets and more. Here’s our pick of the best local shops for finding unique gifts and goodies to take home:
KOBE TOUGH
Formerly known as Kazuri Beads, Kobe Tough is just a stone’s through away from the manor and offers great free factory tours to see exactly how their ceramic beads are produced. There’s a shop selling their handmade jewellery and beaded leather goods, all of which supports single mothers, widows and orphans in Kenya.
LANGATA LINK SHOPS
Just five minutes from the manor, here you’ll find a collection of shops all under one roof selling a range of jewellery, homeware, clothing and more, including the bright designs and extremely popular Kenya Kanga products! It’s become a local hangout with a great café and small children’s play area.
UTAMADUNI
This collection of Kenyan curios (souvenirs) has everything you could want all under one roof, from fridge magnets to magnificent beaded masks. Just ten minutes away from the manor for a quick trip, although easy to get lost in for hours.
OCEAN SOLE
This is a brilliant social enterprise that upcycles old flip-flops found on beaches and waterways in Kenya by making them into unique and functional art pieces. It aims to raise awareness of the state of our oceans and visits to the shop enable a glimpse behind the scenes at how their brightly coloured flip flop art is crafted.
HOUSE OF TREASURES EMPORIUM
Slightly further than those listed above, but still within half an hour’s drive from the manor, this is another collection of local shops with two eateries frequented by Nairobi residents. Here you’ll find a range of home décor and household accessories, as well as a small bronze sculpture gallery.
GIRAFFE MANOR SHOP
If you prefer to maximise your time at the manor, we have our own Giraffe Manor Shop on site with a range of carefully selected, unique items all handmade by talented local artisans. There are also several nearby shopping malls with large supermarkets, pharmacies and other shops for those that need.
This iconic park is the only national park within the limits of a capital city. It is home to a diverse array of wildlife including lions, leopards, buffalos, zebra, antelopes, giraffe and over 400 species of birds. Once inside the park, it really does feel like you have left the city behind. Sunset over the Ngong Hills and vast vistas stretching down over acacia-dotted plains are evocative of the spirit of Africa. Although fenced on three sides, the 117 square kilometre park is open to the south and teeming with wildlife.
Giraffe Manor has one open sided 4 x 4 vehicle for game viewing in Nairobi National Park. This is bookable on an exclusive basis only for single groups of up to six guests checked-in at Giraffe Manor or The Retreat. We recommend pre-booking to ensure availability, as the vehicle cannot be shared with other guests.
Please note that game drives cannot be combined with arrival or departure transfers. If you would like to visit the park outside of check-in times, we are very happy to help you arrange a private vehicle and guide for your Nairobi National Park experience.
Malo stables offer fantastic forest rides with views of the Ngong Hills. The horses are highly trained and the hosts extremely professional. There are a variety of riding options available that could include an alfresco lunch after a lovely ride through the forest at an extra cost. We recommend you book in advance and note that a 50% deposit is required to secure the booking.
Waking up to breakfast with a giraffe is a unique and unforgettable experience. Depending on where you are staying, you will have breakfast either in the main manor or in the Garden Manor breakfast room, but don’t worry, the giraffes know exactly where to find you. Watch out for their long inquisitive tongues as they investigate what’s on offer; luckily, it’s nutritious dried pellets of grass they’re after, and not pancakes!
A traditional afternoon tea at the manor is a delightful occasion not to be missed. Relax in the tranquil gardens with a giraffe or two in view, as you enjoy a tasty assortment of cookies, cakes, sandwiches, scones and fruit platters.
This an a la Carte restaurant located at Giraffe Manor's Retreat. Whilst all meals are included in stays at Giraffe Manor and will be served in the manor's dining room or terrace, Daisy's is available for guests to visit at any time should they wish to do so and anything ordered here is a payable extra. The seasonal menu uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to make nutritious dishes bursting with flavour. Many of the ingredients are grown in the organic veggie garden on site. Guests might like to enjoy a freshly squeezed juice or signature smoothie after a spa treatment or post-workout.