The Two Kenyan Hidden Gems That Made Forbes’ Top 20 Global List

Kenya has gained global recognition after two of its popular tourist attractions, Solio Lodge and Giraffe Manor, were featured in the 2025 Forbes Travel Guide Edge List.
In the list released on Thursday, September 11, Kenyawas one of only two African nationswhose tourist attractions were recognised in the list spanning 15 countries.
The much-coveted Edge List recognises hotels, resorts, and cruises that redefine the boundaries of travel, judged on four key principles. Honourees were chosen through in-person visits from Forbes Travel Guide’s incognito inspectors or editorial team, combined with research and inspection data.
Solio Lodge was listed in the ‘Animal Encounters’ category, with Forbes citing its access to endangered rhino species in Africa. Solio Lodge is located between the foothills of Mount Kenya and the slopes of the Aberdare National Park, inside the 45,000-acre Solio Game Reserve.
Tourists visiting the reserve have the chance to see more than 200 black and white rhinos, most of whom are endangered.
“Few encounters are as majestic as the ones you’ll have with East Africa’s endangered rhinoceros,” Forbes noted.
“Solio provides access to more than 200 black and white rhinos. Set out on game drives in the morning, afternoon, or evening with meals in the bush, or see the wildlife from horseback, mountain bike, or the hotel’s private helicopter,” it added.
On the other hand, Giraffe Manor, located in Nairobi, was recognised for its memorable animal encounters, particularly with the Rothschild’s giraffes.
Once a hunting lodge in the 1930s, Giraffe Manor has gained worldwide recognition for allowing visitors to have breakfast with the animals and even feed them treats, all while enjoying luxurious comfort and the peaceful atmosphere of the site.
“While staying at this 1930s former hunting lodge in Kenya, there’s no need to head out on safari; one of the continent’s best animal encounters is found at this boutique hotel and giraffe breeding sanctuary,” noted Forbes.
“The resident Rothschild’s giraffes treat bedroom windows like drive-through service, poking their heads in search of the treats guests always have stocked for them. Or have breakfast with the animals; you will enjoy pancakes while they get the pellets you feed them,” Forbes added.
Reacting to the news, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano expressed her joy at the recognition, noting that it signifiedKenya’s position on the global tourism stage.