Come for the giraffes, stay for more giraffes! But in between feedings, there are plenty of other things to do to keep you occupied throughout the day. Here are the best things to do at Giraffe Manor, between giraffe feedings!
Visit the Karen Blixen Museum
Best known as the author of Out of Africa, Karen Blixen lived in Nairobi for many years. She used her life and home as inspiration for many of her books, and her home has become a museum that you can tour. She lived here from 1917 to 1931, when she returned to her homeland of Denmark. As of February 2026, the cost was only $10 USD per adult, and a guided tour was included. No photos allowed inside, unfortunately, but certainly still worth a visit. Don’t miss the coffee plantation set-up near the house. It was created for the movie, but it is similar to the coffee plantation and processing machinery that Karen Blixen utilized.
See also: Why I took my Toddler on Safari (and would I do it again?)
Do a Little Local Shopping
The souvenir and gift shopping in Nairobi is next-level. In just one shop, you can find beautiful artwork; tall, hand-carved safari animals; and handmade baby dolls for the kiddos in your life. Just be ready to haggle! In another shop, you’ll see unique jewelry, locally-grown and roasted coffee, and local chocolates. Be sure to stop by the Kazuri Bead Shop for a tour and a little shopping there, too. You can even see what the Masai people have to offer at their local shop here as well. You’ll have the chance to go home with the most beautiful, truly local items from your incredible Kenyan adventure.
More here: What It’s Like Staying at the Viral Giraffe Manor
Visit Sheldrick’s Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage
This was one of the best things I’ve ever done. You’ll get to pet baby elephants! You’ll also learn about how the Trust cares for these sweet, baby creatures to rescue and rehabilitate them, ultimately helping them go back into the wild. During the visit, one of the keepers will tell you about each and every orphan (including the non-elephants), including their name and how they came to be at the Elephant Orphanage. Fall in love with one? You can adopt it for $50 USD per year!
Keep reading: How to Visit Sheldrick’s Trust, the Elephant Orphanage
Schedule a Spa Treatment
Giraffe Manor is one of the most luxurious properties I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in. I can’t believe how elegant this place is; I never wanted to leave! Guests should take full advantage of every amenity, and that includes their spa. Enjoy the sauna, whirlpool, and heated lap pool, but also be sure to book a spa treatment. Or three. From facials to mani-pedis to a variety of massages, you will love any treatment you choose. I went for a massage and mani-pedi, and my traveling companion went in for a most relaxing facial. We can recommend them all!
Read next: How to Treat Yourself as a Single Parent on Travel
Get a Workout
This one isn’t for everyone, but since I use exercise as my primary jet lag mitigation strategy, I was grateful for the ability to use a gym! Add to that the fact that it’s not safe to run on or around the property (Can I outrun a warthog? No, I cannot.), and you’ll start to see how essential a gym is for some travelers. One wall of windows at the gym overlooks their garden, and another overlooks the lap pool. The best hotel gyms always come with plenty of equipment, open space for free movement, and a view.
Read on: The Best Apps for Active Travelers
Order a Giraffe Coffee
Every hot latte, mocha, and cappuccino come with a little friend: A cocoa giraffe silhouette! It’s the cutest, and this little detail gave me so much delight. You can get any coffee you want at Daisy’s Cafe, the Orchid and Bean, or from any staff member around the hotel, and you should. This beautiful, historic manor house is just begging you to relax in one of its many sitting rooms with a coffee while you watch the giraffes and warthogs roam outside.
Keep reading: The Best Food We Ate at Giraffe Manor
Enjoy the View
Every room at Giraffe manor, from the bedrooms and balconies to each sitting room, has a view. While you’re there, you should absolutely take the opportunity to enjoy it. Each morning, a giraffe will come say hello at your window or balcony. Every day, African birds and wild game will go about their business right outside, well within view and closer than you can get to any of them in a Zoo. And if you visit during the rainy season, as we did, you’ll also enjoy more lush, vibrant greenery than you might expect.
More here: Tips for Feeding the Giraffes at Giraffe Manor
Visit the Giraffe Center
Can’t get enough of the giraffes? Guests of Giraffe Manor can visit the Giraffe Center any time of day. A staff member will walk with you to the on-property Giraffe Center. While there, you can learn all about the giraffes at the Center, and giraffes in general. They are truly fascinating creatures. And then you’ll get to feed them! It’s everyone’s favorite part. Unlike at the Manor House, Giraffe Center features a raised, wooden walkway, meaning you’ll be eye-level with these long-necked beauties, instead of knee-level. This gives you a whole new perspective!
Read next: Tips for Your Safari at Solio Lodge by The Safari Collection
Want more? Get everything you need to know on my dedicated Kenya Page!
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