Giraffe Manor | Nairobi
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 Nubian 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 Nubian 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.
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Giraffe Manor Virtual Tour
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.
Room Facilities
Bath Towels, Bath, En Suite Bathroom, Hairdryer, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Shower, Twin Bed
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.
Room Facilities
Balcony , Bath Towels, Bath, En Suite Bathroom, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Twin Bed
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.
Room Facilities
Bath Towels, Bath, En Suite Bathroom, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Queen Bed, Twin Bed
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.
Room Facilities
Bath Towels, Bath, En Suite Bathroom, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Twin Bed
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.
The Finch Hatton Suite is a spacious family suite in the Garden Manor named after Denys Finch Hatton, an adventurer, pilot and pioneer of early safari travel in Kenya.
Located on the first floor above the Garden Manor breakfast room, the Finch Hatton Suite offers magical morning moments with giraffes, who often stretch their necks through the windows and balcony in search of a treat. Access to this suite is via a wooden staircase which spirals up from the Garden Manor breakfast room. The suite opens into a beautifully appointed lounge leading to two bedrooms. The main bedroom features a king-sized bed and a balcony with views over the sanctuary. Its open-plan ensuite includes twin sinks, a freestanding bathtub, a walk-in rain shower and a separate loo. The second bedroom has either twin beds or a double, plus a small daybed and its own ensuite bathroom with twin sinks, a shower and a toilet.
Property Facilities
Bar, Internet Access (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Spa, TV Room, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Fireplace, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary)
Activities on Site
Boules, Fine Dining, High Tea, Massages
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Cultural Tours, Game Viewing, Helicopter Rides, Horse Riding, Museums, Safaris
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 Historic 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.
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.
Your Stay
1 Night
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Fast Facts
Hotel
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Wildlife
Kicheche Laikipia | Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Beneath the watchful peaks of Mount Kenya, Kicheche Laikipia offers an intimate safari immersed in one of Kenya’s most celebrated conservation landscapes. With just 6 elegant canvas tents tucked into the indigenous forest, this eco-camp combines contemporary design with the untamed spirit of the highland bush.
Guided by seasoned naturalists, guests encounter endangered rhinos and a rich array of wildlife while gaining rare insight into Ol Pejeta’s pioneering conservation efforts. At 6,000 feet (1,829 meters) above sea level, days are fresh and bright, and evenings invite the glow of a crackling fire — a welcome contrast to the lowland heat.
Here, every detail — from warm hospitality to thoughtful, sustainable touches — elevates the experience. This is more than a safari; it’s a journey where your presence directly supports wildlife protection and community empowerment.
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- Suites
- Tents
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Family Suite
Two separate bedrooms, each with en-suite bathroom. The bedrooms are connected by a comfortable lounge area, complete with a sofa and a small table enabling private dining. The suite can take a maximum of 5 guests and comes with exclusive use of vehicle for game drives.
1 double king size bed
Spacious, fully insect-proof, and equipped with Podocarpus beds, Egyptian cotton linen, bedside tables, luggage racks, and Indian rugs. Bathrooms are en-suite and are equipped with a dresser, shower, a flushing toilet, and a wash basin with running water. There are very comfortable chairs on the veranda of each tent where you can watch the world go by.
3 single beds
Spacious, fully insect-proof, and equipped with Podocarpus beds, Egyptian cotton linen, bedside tables, luggage racks, and Indian rugs. Bathrooms are en-suite and are equipped with a dresser, shower, a flushing toilet, and a wash basin with running water. There are very comfortable chairs on the veranda of each tent where you can watch the world go by.
1 single bed
Spacious, fully insect-proof, and equipped with Podocarpus beds, Egyptian cotton linen, bedside tables, luggage racks, and Indian rugs. Bathrooms are en-suite and are equipped with a dresser, shower, a flushing toilet, and a wash basin with running water. There are very comfortable chairs on the veranda of each tent where you can watch the world go by.
1 double king size, 2 single beds
Room Facilities
Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, En Suite Bathroom, External Shower, Fan, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Shower, Verandah, Wardrobe
2 single beds
Room Facilities
Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Shower, Verandah, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Malaria Free, Restaurant, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Pure Cotton Linen, Shower, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary)
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Canoeing, Cycling, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, General Sightseeing, Rhino Tracking
Kicheche offers escorted walking safaris with overnight stays in a fly-camp in the bush. These excursions are led by one of Kicheche’s senior guides and an armed ranger. It is an outstanding opportunity to see the Ol Pejeta Conservancy from a completely different perspective and also offers some welcome exercise whilst on safari. You will explore the smaller aspects of savannah life – birds, grasses, and insects – and may even be lucky enough to encounter some larger game en-route.
The two remaining rhinos now live in the 700-acre rhino enclosure. Here, visitors have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet these remarkable rhinos up close and personal and to hear their amazing story from the keepers that look after them 24/7. Available for an hour at 08:30, 11:00, 15:00, and 16:30hrs.
Per Person enclosure entrance: US$ 70.00 (Min 2 pax / Bookable in advance)
The little lake in front of Kicheche Laikipia Camp offers the unique opportunity of canoeing just
in the middle of the conservancy with a chance of viewing the animals coming to drink.
Inclusive in our package rate (Maximum 2 pax)
Watching wildlife at close range, but without encroachingontheirspace,isendlesslyfascinating and our guides’ instincts and experience will provide superb photo opportunities of wild animals. Our safari customized 4WD vehicles are designed to give ever a perfect view.
Night Game Drives are offered to enable guests the chance to observe lesser seen nocturnal species. Our vehicles are fitted with a hand held filtered spotlight and resident species include aardvark, genet, bat-eared fox, striped hyena, serval, honey badger, civet and zorilla.
A different perspective is gained through escorted walks on the savannah. Our interpretive guides will point out the spoor of a leopard, the nest of a rare bird or signs of recent migration activity that would pass unnoticed by the eyes of strangers.
It is a very different mode of safari on a bicycle, an experience you will remember! Includes a short game drive en-route to the designated riding area and we adapt our ride to your fitness. Allow 3 hours for the execution.
Black rhino Baraka lives in what used to be Morani’s 100-acre enclosure, carrying the flag for his predecessor. Baraka was born in the wild in Ol Pejeta, but lost sight in both eyes due to a fight and then a cataract. Baraka now lives in the enclosure, located next to the Morani Information Centre, for his own safety, and has taken to his new role as rhino ambassador.
A full-day trip to the beautiful Ngare Ndare Forest outside Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Depart morning from camp, guided walk in the forest to the waterfall & natural pool, bird watching, canopy walk, picnic lunch. Back to camp by sunset.
(US$250 pp for 2 pax │ US$170 pp for 3 pax │ US$120 pp for 4 – 6 pax)
Wildlife Educational Centre contains a range of wildlife exhibits and background on the Conservancy and it’s operations, an interesting stop for children and adults alike.
Enjoy a unique opportunity of viewing chimpanzees and learn more about the day to day care of the chimpanzees in our care. Chimpanzees are not indigenous to Kenya and Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary is the only
place to see them in Kenya.
Interact with the dog keepers and learn about what it takes to look after the specially trained canine team. Guests are encouraged to try and evade the sniffer dogs, not only is this great fun, but it helps to offer genuine training for the dogs.
(Available at 08:30hrs │ US$70pp │ Bookable in advance │ Restricted to 6 pax │ Not suitable for children under 12)
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 6
Special Interests: Big 5, Birding, Cycling, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife
Angama Mara | Masai Mara
High above Kenya’s Maasai Mara, where some of the most romantic scenes from Out of Africa were filmed, Angama Mara comprises two separate and intimate camps, each encompassing 15 tented guest suites. Built on the edge of the Great Rift Valley on one of the most sought-after sites on the continent, this lodge offers heart-stopping views as far as the eye can see. The lodge, helmed by industry veteran Nicky Fitzgerald (formerly of &Beyond), boasts outstanding game viewing 12 months of the year, with private access to the reserve.
Inspired by the Swahili word for 'suspended in mid-air,' Angama Mara floats 1,000 feet above the Maasai Mara, where, every morning, hot air balloons sail past the 30-foot-wide floor-to-ceiling glass fronts of each suite.
In addition to consistently excellent game viewing, including Africa's Big Five, guests enjoy walking safaris, garden-to-table lunches in the shamba, editing their images in the Photographic Studio, a fitness centre, a 40-foot-long swimming pool, a curated gallery of African art, clothing and jewelry, and a sun-filled studio where local Maasai women work at beading bespoke items.
- Images
- Video
- Rooms
- Facilities
- Activities and Services
Architect duo Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, and Jan Allan, Kenya’s King of canvas, designed Angama Mara’s elegant and classical tented suites with an 11-metre wide floor-to-ceiling glass front. Each tent has the same breathtaking view — no one is better than the last — and every day, the sunrise provides guests with early morning theatre as the hot-air balloons float gently by.
Highly polished parquet floors, distinctive splashes of Maasai red, a handsome drinks cabinet (with personal bar and safe tactfully tucked away), vanity with double basins, separate w/c, writing desk with ample charging points, WiFi, Africology guest amenities, a collection of East African books, a beautiful John Vogel woven screen, and a butler’s lobby allowing for the discreet delivery of early morning tea and coffee, all add to the comfort and delight of guests in their suites.
Each camp has two sets of interconnected family suites which are identical to the Tented Suites, except with the addition of a fully enclosed walkway linking them together. This means guests can still enjoy their space and privacy, with the peace of mind of being able to safely and easily move between the two Tented Suites.
Elderly guests, or those with restricted mobility, have the option of staying at Patty's Tent which has been designed specifically for guests with physical limitations. This Tented Suite includes modifications such as grab rails and ramps, but without sacrificing any special touches or comforts.
Patty's Tent has been fitted with grab rails in both the shower and the w/c. The tent has been cleared of any unnecessary furniture, while all level changes have been fitted with gently sloping ramps. All gravel paths have been cleared between the tent, guest area and vehicle drop-off point.
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Baby Sitting, Battery Charging Facilities, Chapel, Children Friendly, Conference Centre, Credit Card Facilities, Eco Friendly, Guided Tours, Gym / Fitness Centre, Gym on property, Internet Access (Complimentary), Internet Access, Kosher, Laundry Service, Library, Mobile Connectivity, Outdoor Pool / Pool Deck, Pool, Power Generator , Room Service, Spa, TV Room, Vegetarian, Wedding Chapel, Wheelchair Access
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Fridge, Hairdryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly
Available Services
24-hour Security, Baby Sitting, Credit Card Facilities, Disability, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Boules, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Garden Tours, Gourmet Picnic, High Tea, Massages, Night Drives, Safaris, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Child Friendly Activities, Hot Air Ballooning
Game drives at Angama Mara are planned according to what the guests would like to do as there is no set programme. Descending down Angama Mara’s private road, 10-minutes later guests enter the Reserve. Even though there is game a-plenty around the lodge, the heart of the action takes place in one of Africa’s most iconic year-round Big Five destinations – the Mara Triangle.
Watch the hot-air balloon as it is inflated, with a steaming cup of Kenyan coffee in hand. Just before dawn lift off into the skies, witnessing the sunrise and a multitude of animals below while floating over the Mara. Come back down to earth for a champagne breakfast in the middle of the savanna’s endless plains.
Guests have access to over a huge tract of wilderness along the Oloololo Escarpment. Escorted by a Maasai naturalist guide, walks can be as long or short as guests prefer. Discover the smaller details – fascinating plants, birds, insects and animals and the role they play in traditional Maasai beliefs and customs.
Visit Angama Mara’s Photographic Studio for a private tutorial with our on-site photographers who will help you come to grips with your camera. Hire photographic equipment or learn more about the editing process on our large-screen Apple desktops. Explore the Mara on a private photographic safari with one of our specialist guides. Those who prefer to put down their cameras, the in-house photographer can capture these special moments in a professional photoshoot.
Explore Angama Mara’s one-acre lovely kitchen garden followed by a soil-to-fork lunch under towering moth trees. Crusty bread, local cheese, chilled rosé and the freshest of salads served with the Mara as a backdrop – what could be better?
Intimate private picnics for two (maximum four) on the Out of Africa kopje featured on the movie’s iconic poster. Checked blankets, comfy cushions, canvas safari chairs, a picnic and sparkling wine on ice – everything you could need for elegant romance.
As the day ends, it’s time to sit back, sip a cocktail and watch the sun descend behind the Rift Valley from the spectacular vantage point of the Sundowner Boma — perfect for this, with its circular shape encapsulating the dramatic views overlooking the Maasai Mara.
Traditionally as the sun set, livestock was gathered into this space to protect the animals from predators. Today, it is also a space in which people gather, and where the African night is welcomed with song, dance and celebration.
Gather in a lantern-lit forest for dinner cooked over the coals. Guests dine family-style at long, wooden tables, off enamel plates with dishcloths for napkins. It’s fun, it’s relaxed and most of all, it’s delicious.
Leading off the Safari Shop is a sunny studio for Maasai ladies who come daily to bead bespoke items. Guests can try their hand at beading or perhaps have the ladies bead a name bracelet or an item of their clothing.
Join the Angama Running Club and see how you fare against this nation of great athletes as you jog along the Escarpment with the possibility of encountering plains game such as giraffe and zebra along the way.
A hands-on opportunity to learn about the invaluable work of the Mara Conservancy’s canine unit. Observe and participate in training exercises and see if you can outsmart these determined canines.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 30
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
