Umlani Bushcamp

Location: Enkhulu Gate, Arygle Road, Timbavati Game Reserve, za

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Property Type: Lodges

About this Property

Important Information

Policies

Check-in: 12:00 PM - 06:00 PM

Check-out: 12:00 PM

Amenities & Facilities

• Offsite parking discounted rates available
• Non-smoking rooms
• Swimming pool
• Family rooms
• Safety deposit box
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Non-smoking throughout
• Private check-in/check-out
• Shared lounge/TV area
• Board games/puzzles
• Shuttle service (additional charge)
• Outdoor furniture
• Fruits
• Staff adhere to local safety protocols
• Guest rooms disinfected between stays
• Cleaning standards that are effective against Coronavirus
• Physical distancing rules followed
• Hand sanitizer in guest room and key areas
• Cashless payment available
• Fire extinguishers
• First aid kit available
• Sanitized tableware & silverware
• Contactless check-in/check-out
• Invoice provided
• Guests can opt-out any cleaning services during stay
• Shared stationery like menus, pens are removed
• Guest room sealed after cleaning
• Physical distancing in dining areas
• Food delivered to guest room
• Process in place to check health of guests
• Access to health care professionals
• Screens / Barriers between staff and guests for safety
• Face masks for guests available
• 24-hour security
• Delivered food - securely covered
• Thermometers for guests provided by property
• Supervised childcare/activities
• Front desk (limited hours)
• Free wired internet
• Self parking (surcharge)
• Beach umbrellas
• Pool sun loungers
• Offsite parking discounted rates available
• Game drive nearby
• Internet access
• Housekeeping on request
• Wine release events
• Exercise/lap pool
• Japanese garden
• Covered parking
• Swimming nearby
• Charcoal grill
• Vegetarian menu options available
• Accessible shuttle
• No accessible shuttle
• Accessible train station shuttle
• No accessible train station shuttle

Rooms Available

• Double Room

  The spacious double room features a private entrance, a seating area, as well as a private bathroom boasting a walk-in shower and slippers. The double room provides a wardrobe, a safe deposit box, as well as a patio and outdoor furniture. The unit has 1 bed.

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Safety deposit box
  • Desk
  • Seating Area
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Slippers
  • Private entrance
  • Mosquito net
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Linen
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Clothes rack
  • Toilet paper
  • Pool towels
  • Bottle of water
  • Trash cans
  • Shampoo
  • Body soap
  • Socket near the bed
  • Fire extinguisher

• Family Room

  1 x double bed 2 x single beds En suite open-air bush showers Please note: The rate quoted is only for 2 adults This room can accommodate up to 2 adults and 2 children / 4 people. Supplement charges for all additional adults / children / people are applicable and will be confirmed by the hotel/property on confirmation of the reservation

  Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Safety deposit box
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Slippers
  • Private entrance
  • Mosquito net
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Linen
  • Clothes rack
  • Toilet paper
  • Pool towels
  • Bottle of water
  • Trash cans
  • Shampoo
  • Body soap
  • Fire extinguisher

• Double Room

  Featuring free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and slippers. The double room features a private entrance, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box along with a patio. The unit has 2 beds.

  Max Occupancy: 3 (3 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Safety deposit box
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Slippers
  • Private entrance
  • Mosquito net
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Linen
  • Clothes rack
  • Toilet paper
  • Pool towels
  • Bottle of water
  • Trash cans
  • Shampoo
  • Body soap
  • Fire extinguisher

• Eco Hut

  The bungalow features 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. The bungalow provides a private entrance, a seating area, as well as a patio and outdoor furniture. The unit offers 1 bed.

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Safety deposit box
  • Desk
  • Seating Area
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Slippers
  • Private entrance
  • Mosquito net
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Linen
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Clothes rack
  • Toilet paper
  • Pool towels
  • Bottle of water
  • Trash cans
  • Shampoo
  • Body soap
  • Socket near the bed
  • Smoke alarm
  • Fire extinguisher

Guest Reviews

• Cathrien (10/5): Fantastische plek voor Safari, relaxte sfeer, alles super goed verzorgd - Prachtige plek, super vriendelijk personeel, alles heel goed verzorgd, safari met zeer ervaren rangers, heel relaxte sfeer.
• Axel-Peter (8/5): Very nice experience - Excellent Game Driving with very experienced driver and tracker - we saw all big 5 and had ample time for fotos and just watching. And you roam the same areas as much mor expensive lodge competitors.
• Nicholas (9/5): Superb relaxed spot for a family safari - highly recommended - Great location within Timbavati and proximity to Hoedspruit. Intimate camp, family feel, incredibly friendly staff. Great food and generous all inclusives. Access to the Big5 with the added benefit of Timbavati's rules on limited vehicles per sighting. Honestly not a lot. Wifi slow but then, don't go there to do your work emails!
• Bert (10/5): -
• Svenja (9/5): Die Game Drives mit Elvis waren fantastisch und die gemeinsamen Essen mit den anderen Gästen sehr gut - Die Lage im Timbavati Reservat ist ganz wundervoll Das Essen war leider nicht so gut, wie wir es erwartet haben und das Personal war anfangs etwas zurückhaltend
• igor (10/5): - Breakfast is so good! Nothing
• Katrien (10/5): -
• Andrew (10/5): -
• mitch (6/5): Gezellig maar niet om nog eens over te doen. - Super lief personeel. Lekker eten Qua eten niet veel keuze 1 vaste maaltijd elke avond. Alsook 2x gehad dat er niet voldoende was als je nog iets extra wilde. Bij het aankomen moesten we meteen extra toeristen tax betalen wat niet aangegeven was op de website. Alsook de ochtend van vertrek kregen we een rekening van 400 euro voor de taxi kosten die ook niet op voorhand was meegedeeld. Dus regel vooral zelf je vervoer heen en terug dat spaart je minstens 250 euro uit.
• Marie (9/5): Einzigartiges Erlebnis mit viel Gemeinschaftsgefühl - Es ist ein einziges Erlebnis. Die Safaris sind einfach klasse. Man kommt den Tieren so nah!
• Jacqueline (10/5): -
• Axel (10/5): Toller Urlaub, gerne wieder. - Tolles Essen, tolle Atmosphäre und sehr schöne Game Drives. Wir haben alle großen Tiere gesehen. Mit 1,96m waren die Betten zu klein. Ich schätze auf eine Bettgröße von 1,90m.
• Stephanie (9/5): -
• Jade (8/5): Charming little camp ran by a wonderful family and lovely staff. It has everything you need for a great safari experienc - Family run business and staff are really welcoming and friendly. Michaela is a fantastic, warm, friendly and passionate host who is very caring towards guests. Nice rustic feel to the camp and they have a tree house which you can stay in over night. Highly recommend you stay if you can. There’s no sun loungers, only deck chairs and hammocks and there’s a small pool that often gets animal visitors. Across the way there is a watering hole. Food was lovely and game drives were carried out by two knowledgeable members of staff. We always managed to see something and we always had a few laughs along the way. Few people on camp had returned and it was nice to be able to meet other families from around the world. I myself would return in the future. If you stay for quite a while then you could opt to do a bush walk but if you’re pushed for time just stick to the game drives. It would be pretty cool if they had a telescope as the stars at night are fantastic. I have nothing negative to say about our stay. It was a great experience.
• Isabel (6/5): Mehr erwartet - schade - Das Bushcamp ist schön und einfach gehalten. Wir haben die Big 5 und Wildhunde gesehen. Daher hat das recht gut gepasst. Das war aber bereits alles. Es hat leider unsere Erwartungen nicht erfüllt. Schade. Obwohl wir viele Tiere gesehen haben, hat uns die Art und Weise gestört. Die Guides und Tracker kamen uns eher planlos vor. Man fuhr gemäss Funk an die Sightings, meist als letztes Fahrzeug. Wirklich viel erfahren hat man nicht. Bei der Ankunft wurden wir direkt aufgefordert, uns für den Game Walk einzutragen, weil es am nächsten Tag in unserem Fahrzeug keinen Drive geben würde. Erst nach Nachfragen wurde das besser erklärt und wir erhielten die Option, beim anderen Fahrzeug mitzufahren. Am nächsten Morgen wusste davon niemand und es gab nun doch für alle Gäste und Fahrzeuge einen Drive. Hier hätten wir bessere Informationen und Kommunikation erwartet. Das Essen war verhältnismässig sehr einfach. Man wurde beim Lunch gefragt, welches Getränk man auf dem Drive zum Sundowner möchte. Leider war dann genau dieses Getränk nicht dabei. Für uns hat das Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis nicht gepasst. Da haben wir schon einige andere Unterkünfte erlebt, die das besser machen. Wir haben uns von den guten Bewertungen leiten lassen und sind zum Schluss gekommen, dass es nicht unseres war. Wir würden nicht nochmals hin, da für uns überbewertet.
• Franziska (10/5): Es waren für uns vier wundervolle Tage in wunderschöner Natur, mit tollen und hilfbereiten Menschen. Wir würden jedem an - Wir wurden herzlich im Umlani Bushcamp begrüßt. Es gab wunderbares Essen, vor allem war es toll Spezialitäten wie den „YummYumm-Pudding“ zu probieren. Die Game drives waren ein unfassbares und einmaliges Erlebnis. Ranger Elvis hatte ein riesiges Wissen und hat tolle Geschichten zu den Tieren und Erlebnissen erzählt!
• Baptiste (10/5): Exceptionnel - Emplacement parfait. Nous étions au cœur de la réserve de Timbivati et les game drive sont extraordinaires. Gros plus pour le personnel et pour le guide, toujours là pour vous.
• Sofia (10/5): Experiencia insuperable - Visitamos Umlani como parte de nuestra luna de miel. Fue nuestra primera vez en África y nuestra primera experiencia haciendo safaris. Y definitivamente llegamos al lugar perfecto!!! Estuvimos 3 noches en el lodge y todo fue absolutamente perfecto. La gente nos hizo sentir como en casa: todos muy amables, atentos, pendientes que pasaramos un buen rato y muy profesionales. Hasta el gerente del lugar (Marc) estaba presente y se sumó a algunas comidas con todos los huéspedes. El lugar es tan familiar que hasta terminas haciendote amigo de los otros huéspedes y de la gente que trabaja allí, lo cual hace que la experiencia sea aún más inolvidable. Los safarís (a la mañana y a la tarde) fueron excepcionales. Elvis y Atriel nos acompañaron todos los días y nos llevaron por lugares increíbles donde pudimos ver TODOS los animales. Hasta tuvimos la suerte de ver un leopardo comiendose un imapala. Una experiencia descomunal!! Elvis nos iba contando sobre animales y sobre el lugar todo el safari lo cual fue increíble porque aprendimos mucho. Y lo mejor: todo siempre con una sonrisa y buena onda!! El hotel está ubicado en el medio de la reserva, así que realmente dormís dentro de la sabana africana. Tanto es así que el primer día había elefantes y la primera cena cruzó una hiena por detrás nuestro. Las habitaciones son como "casitas" propias. Muy bien equipadas y respetando el estilo africano. La limpieza fue excelente. Las comidas, todas, fueron un 10. Todo era riquisimo, abundante y muy casero. Nos encantó TODO lo que probamos. Además, como huésped tenes bebidas y comida a disposición. Estuvimos casi 1 mes en Africa y Umlani fue lejos lo mejor. La relación calidad-precio es irrisoria al lado de la experiencia que te ofrece el hotel y su gente Por favor, no duden en hacerlo si quieren llevarse un recuerdo para toda la vida Todo fue increíble.
• Carmen (9/5): Sehr entspannend auch da man mehr oder weniger Social detox hat - Sehr schöne Unterkunft und leckeres Essen. Game drives wurden teilweise auch verlängert damit man noch seltene Tiere sehen kann. Würden definitiv Freunden diese Unterkunft empfehlen.
• Xiang (10/5): -
• Anthon (10/5): Fabulous - From the moment you arrive at the property the hospitality was unparalleled. Plenty of small gestures to ensure guests are well looked after. Great meals and accomodation too. Our guide Elvis was amazing he ensured incredible sightings and was so knowledgeable with a great personality. Better wifi coverage would be nice, but acknowledge the property is in a very remote location.
• Olga (10/5): Прекрасный лагерь с отличной территорией для сафари - Отличная территория лоджа с различными комфортными зонами отдыха, с которых вы, не выходя из лагеря, можете наблюдать за животными (в наше пребывание приходили буйволы, слоны, обезьяны и газели). Очень профессиональные и знающие гиды на сафари. Прекрасные вечера в бома перед и после ужина. Это не лакшери лагерь, если кому-то это важно, но это настоящий семейный лодж с возможностью проведения прекрасного сафари. Wi-fi не на всей территории, но это не является минусом, так как позволяет полностью погрузится в созерцание природы.
• Reindert Jan (10/5): Een sprookje! - De bush ervaring in een prachtig gelegen accommodatie. Sfeervol en door het all inclusive concept is het een verwennerij. De rangers doen echt hun best om dieren te spotten en goed te kunnen laten zien. Het was ons niet helemaal duidelijk dat drinken deel uitmaakt van het concept. Ze hebben de pech dat het park niet aantrekkelijk genoeg is voor de dieren. In het Kruger Park is het groener en meer water dus veel meer dieren gezien.
• Bogdan (10/5): Lovely combination of a rustic look with wilderness proximity and full creature-comforts - We had a wonderful time at Umlani, and we were sorry to have only one night to spend there. Although the camp looked a bit rustic upon arrival, we quickly realized that the facilities were top-notch and the location was spectacular. Upon arrival, we went to the restaurant, where we were greeted by an impressive view of the river, and the carcass of a buffalo that had been consumed by lions a few days earlier (at a safe distance, on the other shore of the river). The all-inclusive package gave us access to the self-service bar, which is well-stocked. We then went to our chalet, which was spacious and comfortable. The outdoor shower had more hot water than we could use, available whenever we wanted it. Flush toilet, electricity, and WiFi in the common areas were also excellent. While small tables are set up for lunch with a view of the river, separately for each group of travelers to enjoy some private time, we particularly enjoyed the dinner, which is held in the boma with a communal table. There is no view on the river from there, but the night is dark anyway, and the lodge does not shine bright lights onto wildlife just to entertain guests. Instead, guests get to sit together, at first around the fire, having drinks and exchanging stories about the day's game drives, then around the large dinner table (where we all got to sit and make new friends), then finally back around the fire. There are lanterns illuminating the boma and dinner table, making for a charming ambiance. Breakfast is also taken in the boma, but the feel is a bit less magical in the daylight. One notable sight during our brief stay was to watch a herd of elephants (big and small) within touching distance, across the electric fence while on loungers by the pool. The suggested tips seem on the very high side. While the tips for the guide and tracker appeared reasonable, the staff tips bordered the excessive. The staff were friendly and efficient, but none of them stood out in providing outstanding service. The pool water was quite green with lots of floating debris.
• Melanie (10/5): ein sehr gelungener Aufenthalt - Die Bushtrommel zum Einläuten der Mahlzeiten. die Lage des Pools. Dieser ist sehr kalt, da er keine Sonne abbekommt.
• Kristoffer (10/5): Underbart - Atmosfär service och safari utflykter
• Leen (10/5): -
• Clarissa (10/5): Een top locatie met waanzinnige ervaringen - Alles!! Alles was geweldig dit was boven verwachting! Zo goed verzorgd en heel sfeervol!! Het eten was ook prima ze hielden rekening met eventuele allergieën. De camp drives waren ook fantastisch!!! Vergeet de Tree house niet te boeken ! Het bed is as hard!
• Mariagrazia Vitiello (9/5): -
• Andrew (10/5): A simply magical experience with a family atmosphere in a stunning setting. - Umlani was the highlight of our entire visit to South Africa. Not only did it provide us with amazing opportunities to see the animals up close (lions within 10 feet on one drive!) the whole vibe of the camp is extraordinary - a real family atmosphere which welcomed us from the moment we arrived. The accomodation was fun....even the outdoor shower! Our room was attended to each time we went out on a game drive, so mosquito nets over the bed were all in place on our return from evening drives. The meals were all excellent - announced by the beat of a drum and a personal greeting from the chef. The bar terrace provided views of the reserve where animals often stopped by to graze. We also spent a few hours in the treehouse, which was a unique way to see elephants and buffalo visiting the adjacent water hole. The game drives were fantastic, made even better by our excellent ranger Moven and spotter Atril who were extremely knowledgable and great fun. On our last evening drive they got word of a leopard sighting (the only one of the Big Five we were yet to see) and they drove us for 40 minutes across the reserve in the hope that it was still there......and it was! We really can't speak highly enough of Umlani - it was an experience of a lifetime, never to be forgotten.
• alexandra (8/5): - food is okay. pool is nice. game drives are okay. beds are comfy. tracker and guide are nice people. lodge manager is nice. the highlight i would say is their tree house, which is really cute. also we had good lion sightings. timbavati is open to krueger gladly and not fully fenced like kapama or korongwe. so, its a bit overpriced for what you get. but many places are. like most places. i love animals and nature, so, i personally come for the animals only. i go to these private game reserves cause i want to connect with nature. i m also a wildlife photographer. so, for me, its important to have a QUIET nice time with an animal, to connect with animals, to watch them with RESPECT in an area which is open to krueger and NOT fenced. other tourists were nice and respectful in general, but an older couple from australia kind of ruined every game drive by YELLING at a lepard, being out of respect towards other guests, drinking lots of alcohol and talking very loud the whole drive and making stupid comments at a sighting all the time. Bruce, the old australian boy, told me, after i took amazing pictures and he starred on my camera, making stupid comments about my pictures, that i m pround of myself that i took them. Bruce told me: women are not allowed to be proud of themselves. can men like Bruce maybe please disappear from the planet? is that an option? but then you have 70% less customers inn lodges, right? 🤣 . but imagine how nice and peaceful game drives would be!
• Anvt00 (10/5): Aussergewöhnliche Erfahrung mit tollen Game Drives, netten Gastgebern und super Unterkünften. - Das war einmalig. Super Unterkunft, die Game Drives mit Marvin waren der Hammer und erst recht die Sundowner. Die Unterkünfte sind sauber und liegen mitten im Bush, so dass man nachts die Tiere hört, super. Das Essen war hervorragend und das Personal immer freundlich und immer zuvorkommend. Rundum gelungen, absolute Empfehlung. Total nette Gäste, mit denen man super die Zeit geniessen kann. Besser geht nicht. -
• Julie (10/5): 3 days bush camp heaven - Comfortable hut with connected warm outdoor bathroom, delicious meals, wonderful staff (in camp and on game drives and bush walks), nyala wandering through camp (and elephant at night), buffalo, etc. visible in river bed overlooked by bar. Good value and high standards while feeling more authentic than butlered camps. One game drive included a bit more close-up detail than I desired but that sometimes happens. Sundowner drink stop afterwards at least helped.
• Shirley (10/5): Perfect - De rust, de luxe, de onbezorgdheid, je bent er echt in goede handen. Het enige wat je moet doen is genieten met een grote G Ik kan echt niets bedenken
• Christoph (5/5): Wir waren leider enttäuscht.. - Das Personal war freundlich und nett Die Drives mit dem Guide Lucky waren leider gar nicht nach unserem Geschmack. Er hetzte nur den Großkatzen hinterher, alle anderen Tiere schienen ihn nicht sonderlich zu interessieren und wir erfuhren auch nur wenig über sie oder die Umgebung. Wir verbrachten weite Teile der Drives nur mit fahren und es wurde kaum für Fotos gestoppt. Für unseren Geschmack wurden die Tiere auf den Stops zu sehr gejagt und gestört.
• Inge (9/5): - A very nice Camp with a personal touch. Good Game drives with interesting sightings of animals.
• Andressa Camila (10/5): Lugar perfeito!! - Sabe aquele lugar que você se sente em casa?! Então, o Umlani é o lugar. Podemos começar pelo conforto e limpeza do quartos. As camas foram arrumadas diariamente, sendo que deixam preparadas para deitar à noite. A cama super confortável, e o banheiro a céu aberto com vista para as estrelas, é espetacular. O atendimento é impecável, a todo momento nos oferecendo algo, conversando, como se estivesse em família mesmo. Quanto aos games, o Elvis o melhor Gui sem dúvidas. Simpático, prestativo e persistente para achar os animais. Em 2 dias vimos o Big 6. Com certeza voltaremos à África, e de certeza para o Umlani. Ponto indispensável para nossa parada. Ah não podemos esquecer que nos ofereceram durante a estadia, uma trilha pela savana assim como uma tarde na casa da árvore, uma experiência sensacional. Como foi nosso aniversário de casamento, tivemos até noite especial com champanhe. Só coisas boas a comentar. Foi tudo perfeito. Não existe ponto negativo.
• Ana Paula (9/5): Espetacular! - Funcionários atenciosos, gentis. Não teve nenhum ponto sequer que ficamos insatisfeitos.
• Christelle (9/5): Séjour fabuleux dans un hôtel familial - L'accueil était super. Ambiance familiale. Activités avec les Rangers (games drives et balade dans la brousse) vraiment super. Ils ont tout fait pour que l'on voit un maximum d'animaux. On en a eu plein les yeux. Petites attentions pour ne pas avoir froid dans le véhicule : couvertures et bouillotes pour se réchauffer. Les repas étaient bons et la chambre belle. Ils nous ont même rajouté des transats sur la terrasse à notre demande. On a adoré. Merci beaucoup pour votre accueil ! Dommage que la piscine soit toujours à l'ombre et pas nettoyée car l'eau en juillet est très froide. Du coup, on n'a pu en profiter ! Mettre quelques transats en plus au soleil serait très agréable !
• Birnfeld (10/5): Espetacular - Tudo espetacular. Vale muito a pena. Nada...
• Klaus (10/5): Exceptional - - to be very close to the animals; we watched 15 lions including their babies eating two buffalos from a distance of less than 10m - awesome - highly motivated staff and guides - familar atmosphere - live in harmony with the nature -
• Allison (10/5): An amazing experience. Beautiful people, animals and place. - Umlani means place of rest. It was peaceful, the team were fabulous, food was great, facilities fantastic. We saw so many amazing animals and got to sit silently alongside them. We learnt so much from the guides about the interplay between the animals. So much to observe, learn and appreciate.
• Becky (10/5): Wonderful Camp and Staff in the Timbavati Reserve - All staff were super friendly, and the camp was run like clockwork. Our guide Elvis was fantastic and had a brilliant sense of humour. Whilst they can’t guarantee which animals you will see, they managed to spot everything we wanted to see! The food was excellent, varied and the drinks are all inclusive. We found the stay to be very good value and thoroughly enjoyed our honeymoon stay. Thankyou!
• Richard (10/5): Exceptional -
• Iddo (10/5): Exceptional - First of all- fantastic game drives. In our first one we saw 4 out of the big 5, and much more. Optional bush walk- a different kind of experience. The food was excellent, the staff members were friendly, the atmosphere was cozy and special. Price was not cheap as in all private reserves, but also not expensive in comparison to other lodges. Very recommended!
• Ian (10/5): Can't wait to return. - Value for money. Personal approach. Location. In summer it would be very hot in the chalets. Perhaps solar powered air con?
• Andrew (10/5): Amazing return stay at Umlani - We loved Umlani - brilliant staff, amazing location and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Pamela (10/5): A truly outstanding, surreal experience. - Everything surpassed all expectations, our welcome, care from the staff, quality and variety of food, comfort of huts, amazing safaris. Nothing
• Janet (10/5): Relaxing and special bushcamp, with great food. - Had a fantastic two nights at Umlani Camp. Everything was fantastic. The accommodation was very comfortable and clean. The food was amazing. We did four Jeep drives and saw all the animals we had hoped to see. We also did a bush walk, which was very interesting too. Met some lovely people on camp which made our stay even more special. It was a very relaxing camp, without any formalities like having to get dressed for dinner etc. Congratulations to Michaela and all her team for creating such a wonderful environment. I would highly recommend. Nothing
• Dana (10/5): Perfect first safari! - Every single person at Umlani was warm and welcoming! We felt well cared for the entire time we were there!! The game drivers and trackers are so knowledgeable and engaging; and we were taken out on very small group game drives even though the lodge was not completely booked up and the vehicles could have held more people. The food was first class—every meal!! The grounds are beautiful! We could see elephants right from the lunch area! The highlight of our time was definitely the treehouse where we able to spend not only an overnight but also an afternoon so we could see all the animals during the day!! I wish we could’ve stayed longer and hope to return one day!!! It definitely gets hot in the rooms so keep all the windows open.
• Lee (10/5): Perfect food, service and safaris. Stay here! - Wow what an awesome family feel to this place. The food was excellent, the staff were amazing and the animals on safari were just excellent. You can watch elephants whilst in pool. Loved the afternoon at the treehouse. Loved EVERYTHING about our stay. Thankyou Nothing
• Jennifer (7/5): Staff were great . - Great location nest the airport . True Bushcamp experience.
• Nisha (10/5): Amazing, authentic eco friendly stay. - A beautiful, authentic bush stay. The staff are amazing, as is the food. I loved how they had enough food for all but not excessive to avoid wastage. A real thought to eco living and sustainability. The game drives were amazing - a huge thanks to Elvis and Opa as driver and tracker respectively. We saw absolutely everything. A magical experience. Thanks to Mikela and all her staff. A place I’ll remember forever. It was all great. The pool could be cleaned a bit more often but don’t let that put you off. It’s truly an amazing stay.
• Hlulani (10/5): A beautiful experience - The game drives, the hut, the staff. The photos don't do justice to the beautiful place that Umlani is. I didn't like that I didn't book for a longer stay :)
• Alexandre (9/5): amazing price /quality !!! great experience - great service , great lodge, great gamedrives, excellent quality price point !! the food for lunch is quite light
• Daniel (10/5): Exceptional - This a place is simply magical!
• Janine (10/5): Amazing Safari stay at Umlanis. - The food was delicious. Also, the game drives were very well organized and we managed to see all big 5. In addition, there is a tree house one can visit and see a lot of animals. All good!
• Filip (8/5): Perfect if the ranger experience would’ve been differert - One of the last remaining bush camps in Timbavati who have stayed through to their ethos of delivering a great bush experience and homely comfort without whistles and bells. The ranger we were assigned to was clearly very knowledgeable and experienced but his communication and social skills were really below par. He didn’t connect (nor did he want to connect) with the guests sitting in his vehicle except with the lady sitting next to him. When a question was asked his reactions were blunt and rude and most of the time the question was answered by a story with beared little relevance. The ranger is such a big part of your expirerende at a game lodge that we left feeling unsatisfied without stay whilst everyone else at the lodge was so welcoming and friendly.
• Jim (10/5): Exceptional -
• Klaus-dieter (10/5): We definitely will come back !!! - If you are looking for a luxury lodge you should check twice. If you are looking for a bush camp it is the place to be. max. 17 guests in beautyful bush-houses - they are like family - clean, super food, very nice people - wonderful game drives - we won`t forget nothing
• Lily (10/5): Trip of a lifetime - We have just returned from a fantastic week long stay at Umlani. The game drives, lead by our ranger JD and tracker Lucky exceeded our expectations. We saw all of the big 5, plus lots more! However the highlight of our game drives were our conversations with our ranger and tracker, who shared so much knowledge with us regarding both the wildlife and local culture. They were so cheerful and kept us smiling throughout! This warm service extended to the camp, where we felt extremely comfortable and well cared for. During our trip we celebrated an engagement and my fiancés 30th birthday! All of the staff at Umlani made these occasions very special for us, organising a special treehouse stay, balloons, a special dinner and even a homemade birthday cake. We were genuinely sad to leave and feel like we have made lifelong friends. We cannot wait to return and can’t recommend Umlani highly enough.
• Tommaso (9/5): Absolutely amazing - Great location, staff and food. Rangers were amazing and gave us great game drives. We’d also recommend to book a stay at the treehouse for some extra viewing of the wildlife Wi-Fi only cover some areas, but I was too busy enjoying nature to care
• Russell (10/5): Just the best wildlife viewing trip I've ever had. - The location was fantastic for game viewing and nothing was too much trouble for the staff. Elvis and Atriel made sure that we saw as many animals as possible. I can't fault the place at all
• Stephen (10/5): Second visit and still fabulous - This was the second time we stayed at Umlani and had another fabulous experience. The game drives, food, hospitality, comfort of the individual huts, were all excellent. We wished we had stayed longer and will definitely be back. Nothing could be better.
• Miho (9/5): Superb - Very friendly and attentive staffs. Game drives were great; comfortable truck. Bush stay, nice fire and meals. Terrace looking over the water hole with animals coming by. WIFI was slow but good enough to check and send messages. Bush walk could have been more educational.
• Ruchi (10/5): Exceptional - The feeling of being 'in the bush,' makes Umlani a truly fantastic, affordable option for those who want a private reserve which is great value for money. All of the staff, from the hosts to the rangers and the chefs, were welcoming and couldn't do enough for us. There are two game drives a day and we were fortunate enough to see all 'Big 5,' as the rangers do all they can to ensure this. We also did the bush walk which was informative and also spent an afternoon at the treehouse, where we saw an elephant come up to drink water where we were sitting. The food exceeded expectations, with 3 varied and delicious meals a day and unlimited drinks throughout the day. Our room were like 'modern huts' with a rustic feel to it. It had a large comfy bed with mosquito net, electricity, electric fan and good toilet and outdoor shower. We only stayed for 2 nights but definitely wish it was more! It was nice to switch off from the outside world however it would have been nice to have better wifi. It was only available by reception and even then was very patchy and unreliable.
• Henry (10/5): Exceptional - Amazing value, great staff, wonderful service, an excellent safari experience from start to finish
• Elizabeth (10/5): Exceptional - Wow, just wow! Umlani exceeded our expectations on every level. The camp is just charming - rustic yet extremely comfortable with wildlife roaming freely through it. All the staff were warm and welcoming and made you feel relaxed and at home immediately. They go out of their way to make your stay as special as possible. Our room was lovely with a solar plug socket to charge our phone and camera. We also had an open bathroom and you could shower under the stars! Every meal was delicious with all dietary requirements catered for. Our game drives were fantastic. Elvis and Lucky made sure we had a unique experience on each one. The Timbavati is rich in game and beautiful birds. We saw everything we hoped to and more including wild dog and a honey badger. We also had an unforgettable encounter with a huge herd of elephant during our morning coffee at the dam. We plucked up the courage to stay one night in their tree house. We were so glad we did - it was just magical. Umlani is a special place and we definitely hope to go back. Nothing
• Prof (10/5): Excellent game park experience - Food was excellent (all meals included) cooked freshly by friendly staff. Driver and tracker were very knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. All staff were very friendly and helpful. Great location and plenty of animals to see - drives were about 7 hours per day in total and not rushed. Accommodation a little basic but this is an "eco-camp" so to be expected. WiFi very weak and only available at reception but again this is supposed to be a natural experience so being away from the internet is no bad thing!
• Douglas (10/5): For my wife and I this was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thank you everyone at Umlami. - Everything! The location in the bush was amazing. The rustic facilities was exactly what we were hoping to experience. The staff were very friendly and helpful. They could not have done anything more for us. The food was amazing. And then, there were the daily excursions into the bush. Again, amazing. Our Ranger and Tracker were very knowledgeable about all that we were seeing. They did amazing tracking and driving to get us as close as possible to the free-roaming animals. Each ride had a special happening. We wanted to see an elephant. We saw a mother elephant playing and teaching her baby, 2-week old elephant. We wanted to see a lion. We saw over 20 lions, including being in the middle of a group roaring/talking to each other. We wanted to see a rhino. We saw 4 rhinos meeting in a group as a mother seemed to be teaching her babies.Each ride was exceptional. That we finally had to go home! We would have liked to extend our time there, but unfortunately that wasn't possible.. We hope we can come back again in the future with our kids and grandkids.
• William (8/5): Very good -
• Connie (9/5): Accomodations are basic but the animal experience is top-notch - The location on the Timbavati reserve is really the highlight here. The rangers are able to drive off the roads and get close to the animals for some top notch game viewing. We spent a night in the treehouse which was an absolutely incredible experience. Wifi is only available near the check-in desk, and even though it is spotty at best. We went in November and it was extremely hot (45C/110F), and it was difficult to sleep since there is no AC. We were under the impression that the camp overlooked a watering hole but this is not the case. The rooms are completely open to the outdoors so monkeys can be a nuisance but there were surprisingly few bugs in the room despite this. Overall, these issues are all acceptable as long as you are expecting a rustic accommodation.
• John (9/5): Superb -
• Jacqueline (8/5): Very good -
• Jody (10/5): Beautiful lodge with great staff, good food and excellent service. We loved Umlani! - Beautiful and very comfortable rooms and common spaces, great food, friendly staff. Loved everything about Umlani and would stay there again in a heartbeat. Really liked the social atmosphere and comraderieship built with other travellers as we safaried, ate and relaxed together. SUPERB! Nothing. Umlani exceeded our expectations!
• Zongwen (10/5): Exceptional -
• Rossann (10/5): The most authentic way to experience the bush, a truly magical place - All of the staff, from reception to the chefs, the drivers and rangers were unbelievably friendly, knowledgeable and went out of their way to ensure we’d an exceptional experience, including accommodating dietary needs. The bush walk and tree house stay were really special.
• Victoria (10/5): Highly recommend. - Fantastic game viewing. Leopards up trees devouring prey. Many prides of lions. Rhino. Elephants. Zebras. Warthogs. Etc. Wonderful hospitality including lovely little touches like cold towels after game drives and beautifully decorated dinner tables in basic rustic setting. Kind staff. Great bed. Everything was fabulous.
• James (10/5): Bush paradise! - Umlani and its team are simply beautiful. From start to finish our family of four (2 adult kids aged 20 & 18) enjoyed every minute of our bush experience. We stayed three nights, and although it was sad to leave, this was about perfect for us. The camp is not luxury but is in keeping with its environment, including animals wandering through the camp, and guests are looked after fabulously by the friendly team. The outdoor shower, nice pressure and hot water, is great. Food and drink all really good. Limited Wi-Fi, but enough for messages. The tree house option was amazing. We did a daytime trip there and were fortunate to witness a group of 20+ elephants arriving and drinking, bathing and playing for almost an hour - wow, wow, wow!! The games drives (we did 5 during our stay) were brilliant, knowledgeable and fun drivers and spotters, and lucky to see the Big 5 plus much more. Finally we were fortunate to share our stay with some lovely people from all over the world and enjoyed the group firepit and dining time sharing of stories and experiences. Thank you Micaela, Thembi, Big A and all the Umlani family…..we will definitely be back!
• Oonagh (9/5): Superb -
• Sam (10/5): Amazing - Amazing place, in the middle of the nature, where you can find peace. Its basic, but you get everything you need. Food was superb. Safari and guides were amazing. Our best stay in Kruger.
• Will (10/5): Exceptional -
• Shepherd (9/5): Great stay at Umlani! - Food was outstanding! Highly enjoyed the game drives. Great spot to wind down!
• Yves (10/5): Amazing stay in the bush! - Amazing experience staying at Umlani in the middle of the bush. The rooms are rustic, but in good condition and in a nice typical African style. The food was good and tasty, we liked it to be seated with the other guests as it was a nice way to get to know each other quickly as you spend quite some time together (during the game drives). The animals are of course the highlight, it’s just amazing to see so many different species and being so close to the action. The rangers are exceptional, always on the look out to find the most animals. The other staff was also super friendly, all so passionate and lovely. We also had the opportunity to spent one night in their treehouse, which was absolutely amazing and a once in a lifetime opportunity. We’d absolutely come back and recommend this camp!
• Rachel (10/5): The best. - The most amazing experience I’ve ever had. So glad I was able to share this experience with my parents. Truly a once and a lifetime! HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Nothing
• Lynne (8/5): Very good -
• Miles (9/5): Superb -
• Hunter (10/5): Exceptional -
• Giulia (10/5): great experience! - we had an amazing time at Umlani. we felt extremely cuddled by the staff, ranger, tracker and general manager. our experience was 10 out of 10. game drives were amazing, we saw so many animals. we also went to the tree house (part of the lodge), and that was really the highlight of our staying. the lodge had all comforts and the staff is really attentive. food was great as well!
• Annmarie (10/5): Wonderful bush camp!! - We loved our time at this bush camp! The food was excellent and I think lunches were some of my favorites of our whole trip. The game drives were amazing - they can drive off of the roads since is a nature reserve, which is a huge positive for staying here when compared to inside Kruger. I know we’re going to keep talking about this stay for years to come and would love to stay here again in the future! Only thing I would recommend is a bathroom by the dining area instead of needing to go back to your room - which when dark, you need someone to escort you.
• Guillaume (10/5): just amazing! I will definitely come back! -
• Lorraine (10/5): Perfect safari - we learned so much and are already planning our return! - Perfect balance of rustic and comfort (hot water and a comfy bed; minimal wifi/electricity). Minimal footprint - all solar powered! And the staff! we felt so welcomed the entire time. You’re camping in the bush, so there are insects around, especially at night. But with some repellant on your ankles, a mosquito net over the bed, and an acceptance that you’re in their territory - you’ll be just fine.
• Nicky (10/5): best south africa memories & safari - so happy we were there - We absolutely loved EVERYTHING about our stay at Umlani. The game drives were awesome. Our ranger & tracker drove us up close to the animals for the best views ever, unforgettable memories! The bush camp is lovely, with a boutique feel to it, and you can tell that every member of staff puts and effort into the details and into creating a comfortable and memorable stay. And not to forget: the food was super delicious! Big thanks to Epfraim, Clarence, Dumi, Joanna, Suzy, Irena, and all the other super friendly staff members & hosts whose names we forgot 😇 Nothing - just go there!
• Jane (10/5): A really special experience - don’t hesitate to book! - Amazing from arrival to departure. The Umlani team have created something very special and we loved every minute of our stay Nothing
• Karen (10/5): Umlani created memories for a lifetime! - Umlani was the perfect size of camp and perfect balance of rustic and comfort for my two adult nieces and me. The camp is beautiful and natural. The food was exceptional and the chef did a wonderful job accommodating a severe food allergy. Most of all we loved the game drives. Our ranger and team were committed to providing exciting, educational and beautiful drives each time - and we saw everything! Our perfect night and sunrise was staying in the tree house. We loved our stay!
• Andrew (9/5): Superb -
• Boris (10/5): Exceptional -
• Donovan (10/5): Exceptional -
• Anna-ffm (9/5): Superb -
• Robert (10/5): Umlani don't hesitate just go . - Everything it is a wonderful place in the bush and the staff make you feel like family . Elvis wonderful guide Susan Johan and every one else . Great sightings go out of their way to show you the animals. Don't hesitate book this place was in a completely different league to our place before . Tree house go in day ideally have the elephants .met Marco the owner and his ethos in running the camp is so in tune with our eco standards. Hammock was set too high and place more soft sand below incase you fall out .

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