Umani Springs Lodge –
A Luxury Forest Retreat in the Heart of Kenya’s Elephant Country
Hidden within the lush groundwater forest of Kibwezi Forest, on the edge of Chyulu Hills National Park, Umani Springs Lodge is one of Kenya’s most distinctive safari destinations. Operated by the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, this exclusive-use eco lodge combines luxury accommodation with world-renowned elephant conservation, offering guests an unforgettable experience unlike anywhere else in Africa.
Surrounded by towering indigenous trees, crystal-clear natural springs and abundant wildlife, Umani Springs Lodge provides a peaceful sanctuary where visitors can reconnect with nature while supporting one of the world’s leading wildlife conservation organisations.
A stay here is far more than a safari holiday—it is an opportunity to witness one of the most successful elephant rehabilitation programmes ever established while enjoying the comfort and exclusivity of a private wilderness retreat.
Discover the Beauty of Kibwezi Forest
Unlike the open plains of Tsavo East, Kibwezi Forest is an ancient groundwater forest sustained by the natural Umani Springs. This permanent water source creates a lush oasis throughout the year, supporting an extraordinary diversity of wildlife.
The forest lies between the Chyulu Hills and the greater Tsavo ecosystem, forming an important wildlife corridor for elephants and many other species.
Guests are immediately struck by the contrast between dense woodland, open glades, freshwater pools and spectacular views towards the volcanic Chyulu Hills.
The peaceful atmosphere makes Umani Springs one of the most relaxing safari destinations in Kenya.
Exclusive Use Accommodation
Umani Springs Lodge is reserved exclusively for one booking at a time, ensuring complete privacy throughout your stay.
The lodge accommodates up to ten guests in three beautifully designed cottages, making it ideal for families, groups of friends and multi-generational holidays. One cottage is designed with families in mind, while the others provide spacious accommodation with private decks overlooking the forest and waterholes.
Each cottage features:
- Spacious bedrooms
- En-suite bathrooms
- Indoor and outdoor showers
- Comfortable sitting areas
- Private verandas
- Luxury beds and linens
- Solar-powered electricity
- Beautiful forest views
Natural materials and contemporary African design blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
Living Among Nature
The central lodge provides inviting spaces where guests can relax between activities.
Facilities include:
- Open-plan lounge
- Indoor and outdoor dining areas
- Natural swimming pool
- Birdwatching platform
- Gym
- Viewing decks overlooking waterholes
- Beautiful gardens and forest trails
Bushbucks frequently graze on the lawns, while birds and butterflies are constant companions throughout the day.
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