Umani Springs and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: The Sanctuary for Elephants Who Need It Most
Umani Springs is the third pillar of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s (SWT) reintegration program, established in 2014 within the ancient Kibwezi Forest at the foot of the Chyulu Hills . Unlike Ithumba and Voi, which serve orphaned elephants capable of long-distance movement, Umani Springs was created specifically for physically compromised elephants — those whose injuries from poaching, snares, or accidents mean they can never fully fend for themselves in the wild . The camp accommodates a single private group of up to ten guests in three cottages, offering exclusive-use privacy and direct proximity to the Umani elephant herd . Booking Umani Springs means entering the most intimate, family-like of SWT’s reintegration units, where elephants like Murera, Sonje, and Lima Lima have built a permanent sanctuary in the forest.
Who Is Umani Springs?
Umani Springs is an exclusive-use, self-catering eco-lodge owned and operated by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, located deep within the Kibwezi Forest in the Chyulu Hills National Park . The lodge comprises three beautifully designed cottages sleeping up to ten guests, each with en-suite outdoor lava-rock showers, spacious bedrooms, and wide verandas overlooking the forest .
Opened in June 2014, Umani Springs was SWT’s answer to a unique challenge: two elephants, Murera and Sonje, had survived catastrophic injuries that left them permanently disabled. Murera had stepped on a poisoned spike and suffered a devastating fall; Sonje’s right knee was shattered by a gunshot or spear . Neither could keep up with a wild herd over long distances. They needed a place where food and water were always within reach, where the terrain was gentle, and where they could still live as elephants .
The Kibwezi Forest — an 18,000-acre groundwater forest fed by underground springs — provided exactly that. Its year-round water and lush vegetation mean elephants never have to travel far to survive .
The Core Connection: How Umani Springs Links to Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Ownership: Directly Operated by SWT
Umani Springs is owned and operated by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust . It is not a commercial lodge that donates a portion of profits. It is a core component of SWT’s conservation infrastructure, alongside the Nairobi Nursery, Ithumba, and Voi .
Location: The Kibwezi Forest Sanctuary
Umani Springs sits within the Kibwezi Forest, a rare groundwater forest that forms part of the Chyulu Hills National Park . The forest was secured by SWT through a long-term lease in 2008 as part of its Saving Habitats program, ensuring permanent protection for the elephants and the ecosystem . The lodge overlooks natural springs that attract elephants, buffalo, leopards, bushbucks, and over 400 bird species .
Mission: A Home for the Most Vulnerable
Umani Springs exists because some elephants cannot return to a fully wild life. The unit is intentionally the smallest and most intimate of SWT’s reintegration sites, designed for elephants whose physical limitations require ongoing support . As SWT explains: “Umani has a unique, equalising power. While many of its orphans are there specifically because of their physical limitations, their injuries don’t define them” .
Despite their challenges, Umani’s elephants have thrived. Murera became the herd’s matriarch and gave birth to Mwana. Lima Lima emerged as the herd’s scout. Zongoloni leads the “Nightclubbers” — semi-wild orphans who spend nights in the forest but return to the stockades each morning .
Why Umani Springs Offers an Experience That Cannot Be Replicated
1. Intimate Family Dynamics:-
The Umani herd is not a large, anonymous group. It is a tight-knit family with clearly defined roles. Murera serves as head matriarch, Sonje as her able assistant. Lima Lima is the scout — the herd’s eyes and ears. Zongoloni is the leader of the “Nightclubbers.” Quanza has become an exceptional nanny .
Recent keepers’ diaries reveal the depth of these relationships: Lenny, Lima Lima’s calf, tried to sneak milk from Zongoloni while she nursed her own son, Zigi. Zongoloni was “not fooled for a moment” and delivered a firm reprimand . Mwana, Murera’s daughter, has developed into an excellent junior nanny — one day she brokered a resolution when Zigi and Sulwe fought over a stick .
Guests at Umani Springs witness these dynamics firsthand, three times a day, from a position of privileged proximity.
2. Three Daily Elephant Visits
The structure of each day at Umani Springs revolves around the elephants :
- 7:00 AM sunrise stockade visit — watch the herd emerge from their overnight enclosure
- 11:00 AM midday mud bath — the orphans wallow directly adjacent to the main lodge
- 5:30 PM sunset return — the herd walks back to the stockades for the night
This rhythm is non-negotiable and forms the spine of the Umani experience .
3. The Forest Setting
Umani Springs is not a savanna camp. It is a forest lodge. The Kibwezi Forest is a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its butterflies and birdlife . The lodge’s dedicated birding platform overlooks the springs, producing excellent sightings of the forest’s 400+ species . Guided forest walks with armed rangers reveal hidden springs, ancient trees, and the tracks of wild elephants, buffalo, leopard, and bushbuck .
The hike to Umani Hill lookout, about 90 minutes, offers views over the forest canopy toward the Chyulu range .
4. Purpose Over Politeness
Umani Springs does not pretend to be a hotel. It is a self-catering retreat: guests bring their own groceries, and a resident cook prepares meals from what is provided . There is no Wi-Fi in the cottages, no mobile reception, no on-site shop . The quality of the food depends entirely on the quality of ingredients guests bring .
For guests who understand this, the experience is liberating. As one recent guest put it: “The food was delicious and beautifully presented in their lovely dining room. Our accommodations were spacious and luxurious. We loved sitting out on our deck which overlooked a waterhole, watching the wildlife” .
How to Book Umani Springs
Umani Springs cannot be booked as a standalone room. It must be arranged through an SWT-authorized tour operator as part of a custom Kenya itinerary .
Essential requirement: Each couple and individual in the group must be a foster parent of a Sheldrick orphan elephant to visit and stay at Umani Springs .
Access: 3–4 hours by road from Nairobi via the A109 to Kibwezi town, then 15km to the lodge. The SGR train to Kibwezi station (2 hours, ~$10 second class) plus an arranged transfer is the recommended value option. Charter flights to Kithyasu airstrip (approximately 45 minutes from Wilson Airport) are also available .
Umani Springs vs. Other SWT Properties
| Property | Location | Capacity | Positioning | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Umani Springs | Kibwezi Forest, Chyulu Hills | 3 cottages, up to 10 guests | Sanctuary for physically compromised elephants | Forest setting; permanent water; most intimate herd |
| Ithumba Camp | Foot of Ithumba Hill, Tsavo East | 4 tents, up to 8 guests | Original; rustic; often reserved for major donors | The founding reintegration unit |
| Ithumba Hill | Mid-slope of Ithumba Hill | 4 tents, up to 8 guests | Most luxurious; opened 2015; swimming pool | Elevated views; premium comfort |
| Ithumba Private | Among granite boulders | 3–4 tents, up to 6 guests | Most private; invite-only | Complete exclusivity |
| Voi | Tsavo East | — | — | The original SWT unit |
Who Should Stay at Umani Springs
Umani Springs is designed for:
- SWT foster parents who want to see the elephants they support in the most intimate setting
- Elephant advocates seeking deep, sustained interaction with a small, known herd
- Travelers who value purpose over polish — this is not a luxury lodge in the conventional sense
- Birdwatchers and forest lovers — the Kibwezi Forest is a biodiversity hotspot
- Small private groups or families (maximum 10 guests)
Note: Due to the forest location and elevated structures, children under 5 are not encouraged .
Summary: The Sanctuary
Umani Springs is not the most dramatic of SWT’s properties. It is not the original, like Ithumba. It is not the most luxurious, like Ithumba Hill. It is something else: a sanctuary. It exists because some elephants, through no fault of their own, cannot survive without a little help. Murera, Sonje, and the others have built a life there — not a wild life, not a captive life, but something in between that works for them .
Staying at Umani Springs means witnessing that life. It means watching Murera lead her herd to the mud bath, seeing Lima Lima scout for danger, and meeting the elephants who call this forest home. It means understanding that conservation is not always about releasing animals into the wild. Sometimes it is about giving them a place where they can be as wild as they are able.
As one guest wrote after their stay: “To be able to meet the orphaned elephants that I have been following for so long and meet the keepers who are so dedicated, patient, and compassionate was an experience I will never forget” .
Umani Spring Lodge Rates-2026
Non Resident Self Catering Rates in US$
| No of Guests | Per Night |
| 1-4 guests | $2,714 For the entire Property |
| 5 guests | $3,393 For the entire Property |
| 6 guests | $4,071 For the entire Property |
| 7 guests | $4,750 For the entire Property |
| 8 guests | $5,428 For the entire Property |
| 9 guests | $6,107 For the entire Property |
| 10 guests | $6,785 For the entire Property |
Additional Extras:A Conservancy fee of US$30 per person per day
Self-Catering with Full Camp Service
Like all Sheldrick Wildlife Trust properties, Umani Springs Lodge operates on a self-catering basis.
Guests purchase their groceries before travelling to the lodge, while a professional resident chef, housekeeping staff and camp team prepare, serve and clear every meal.
The lodge also provides drinking water and bathroom amenities, allowing guests to focus only on bringing their preferred food and beverages.
Beyond Kenya Safaris Menu Planning Service
Planning meals for a remote safari need not be complicated.
At Beyond Kenya Safaris, we work directly with the chef at Umani Springs Lodge before your arrival to prepare a personalised menu tailored to your group.
Menus are customised according to:
- Number of guests
- Length of stay
- Children’s meals
- Vegetarian and vegan diets
- Gluten-free requirements
- Food allergies
- Special celebrations
- Personal preferences
The chef then prepares a comprehensive shopping list with the correct quantities.
Upon your arrival in Nairobi, our team accompanies you to selected supermarkets to purchase everything required for your safari.
This complimentary service eliminates guesswork, reduces food waste and ensures your holiday begins smoothly.
Visit the Umani Springs Reintegration Unit
One of the greatest privileges of staying at Umani Springs Lodge is exclusive access to the Umani Springs Reintegration Unit.
Established in 2014, the Umani programme was created to rehabilitate orphaned elephants that often require additional care because of injuries or difficult early life experiences. The rich forest habitat provides abundant food and water, allowing these elephants to regain their confidence while gradually returning to life in the wild. Guests can join the elephants at sunrise and sunset at the stockades and observe the midday mud bath, creating exceptionally intimate conservation experiences.
Wildlife in Kibwezi Forest
Although famous for elephants, Kibwezi Forest supports a remarkable diversity of wildlife.
Regular sightings include:
- African elephants
- Leopards
- Buffalo
- Bushbucks
- Duikers
- Civets
- Serval cats
- Mongooses
- Bush babies
- Hyenas
The forest environment creates a safari experience that is completely different from the open savannahs of Tsavo.
A Paradise for Birdwatchers and Nature Lovers
Kibwezi Forest is one of Kenya’s finest birdwatching destinations.
Hundreds of bird species have been recorded within the forest, while colourful butterflies thrive throughout the year thanks to the permanent water supply.
Guests can enjoy birdwatching directly from the dedicated platform overlooking the springs or while exploring the surrounding forest.
For photographers and naturalists, few places in Kenya offer such a rich combination of wildlife, birds and lush scenery.
Activities at Umani Springs Lodge
Your stay can include:
- Visits to the Umani Springs Reintegration Unit:Spend time with orphaned elephants and learn about their inspiring journey back to the wild.
- Forest Game Drives:-Explore the unique ecosystems of Kibwezi Forest and the surrounding Chyulu Hills region.
- Guided Nature Walks:-Discover indigenous trees, medicinal plants, butterflies and birdlife.
- Birdwatching:-Observe forest species from the dedicated viewing platform.
- Hiking:-Walk to scenic viewpoints overlooking Kibwezi Forest and the Chyulu Hills.
- Swimming:-Relax in the lodge’s natural swimming pool after a morning safari.
- Sundowners:-Enjoy spectacular sunsets overlooking the forest canopy and the Chyulu Hills.
Conservation Beyond Elephants
Your stay at Umani Springs directly supports the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s conservation work in Kibwezi Forest.
These initiatives include:
- Anti-poaching patrols
- Forest protection
- Wildlife water projects
- Electric fence maintenance
- Reforestation programmes
- Community outreach
- Kenya Wildlife Service support
Every booking contributes to safeguarding one of Kenya’s most important wildlife habitats.
Best Time to Visit
Umani Springs Lodge is a year-round destination.
June – October
Excellent wildlife viewing with pleasant temperatures.
January – March
Warm weather and outstanding photography conditions.
November – December
Lush forest landscapes and exceptional birdwatching.
April – May
Beautiful green scenery, fewer visitors and peaceful forest walks.
Getting There
Guests can reach Umani Springs Lodge by:
- Scheduled flights to nearby airstrips
- Private charter flights
- The Standard Gauge Railway to Kibwezi followed by a short transfer
- Road transfer from Nairobi (approximately 3–4 hours depending on traffic)
Beyond Kenya Safaris can arrange all transport, accommodation and safari logistics.
Why Stay at Umani Springs Lodge?
Guests choose Umani Springs because it offers:
- Exclusive use of the entire lodge
- Beautiful forest setting
- Natural springs
- Luxury accommodation
- Outstanding birdwatching
- Access to the Umani Springs Reintegration Unit
- Excellent wildlife viewing
- Exceptional photography opportunities
- Personalised service
- Direct contribution to wildlife conservation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Umani Springs Lodge booked exclusively?
Yes. The lodge is reserved for one booking at a time, ensuring complete privacy for your group.
Are meals included?
No. Umani Springs Lodge is fully staffed but operates on a self-catering basis. Guests provide groceries while the resident chef prepares all meals. Beyond Kenya Safaris assists with menu planning, shopping lists and supermarket shopping in Nairobi.
Can guests visit the elephants?
Yes. Guests enjoy exclusive access to the Umani Springs Reintegration Unit, including visits to the elephants’ stockades and mud bath. Current Sheldrick Wildlife Trust policy requires guests staying at Umani Springs to be active foster parents of one of the Trust’s orphaned elephants.
How many nights should I stay?
We recommend a minimum of three nights to enjoy the forest, wildlife, elephant experiences and relaxed pace of the lodge.
Is Umani Springs suitable for families?
Yes. The lodge is ideal for families, couples and private groups seeking an exclusive conservation safari.
Book Your Umani Springs Lodge Safari with Beyond Kenya Safaris
Beyond Kenya Safaris specialises in tailor-made conservation safaris that combine luxury accommodation with extraordinary wildlife experiences.
From reserving your stay at Umani Springs Lodge to planning menus, preparing shopping lists, assisting with supermarket shopping in Nairobi and arranging flights or road transfers, we take care of every detail.
We can also combine Umani Springs Lodge with the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Nursery, Amboseli National Park, Tsavo East, Samburu, Laikipia and the Maasai Mara to create a truly unforgettable Kenya safari.
Contact Beyond Kenya Safaris today and let us plan your exclusive stay at Umani Springs Lodge, where luxury, conservation and nature come together in one remarkable destination.
A Guide to Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Kenya
- Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Kenya
- Umani Springs Reintegration Unit
- Elephant Nursery Nairobi
- Self-Catering at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Lodges
- Chyulu Hills National Park
- Tsavo East National Park
- Luxury Kenya Safaris
- Conservation Safaris in Kenya