Umlani Bushcamp

If you’re looking for over-the-top luxury and excessive sophistication, this is not the place for you—and that is exactly what makes Umlani Bushcamp such a gem. Nestled among the trees, Umlani offers a truly unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Family-owned and operated, the rustic facilities give you an authentic sense that you are truly in the wilds of South Africa, while still providing a feeling of simple luxury and deep relaxation. The camp accommodates only about 15 guests in a small number of authentic rondavels. Bathrooms are outdoors, allowing you to shower and take care of business under the stars—don’t worry, everything is thoughtfully designed to ensure complete privacy. This setup only adds to the magic and connection with nature. The staff are wonderful: attentive without being intrusive, warm, and welcoming. You feel relaxed and unrushed almost immediately. The food is excellent—well prepared and consistently delicious—and dinner is charmingly announced each evening with a drumbeat. The twice-daily game drives are exceptionally well done. You’re never crowded, and the guides and drivers are professional, highly knowledgeable, and deeply observant. We were fortunate enough to see the Big Five, African wild dogs (an absolute treat), and so much more. One unforgettable highlight was the treehouse experience—a must-do. We scheduled it for the afternoon, and elephants came so close that we could not only smell them, but actually hear them breathing. Adding to the magic, we were lucky enough to witness a two-week-old elephant calf with the herd—an incredibly rare, intimate, and deeply special moment we will never forget. If I could give Umlani Bushcamp 10 stars, I would. Where else can you enjoy afternoon tea with local kudu wandering nearby? This is truly a special place, and we will definitely return.

I had a wonderful time at Umlani Bushcamp. The whole experience felt deeply connected to nature. The lodge is simple, thoughtful, and equipped with everything we needed. I really appreciated how eco-friendly it is. Our game drives were incredible, guided by a super knowledgeable and attentive team of Ephraim and Martin. Their well-organized approach shows real respect for the wildlife. Most of all, the people at Umlani were incredibly kind, genuine, and welcoming. It truly made the stay special.

Last year I joined a couple of game drives at Umlani when I stayed outside Timbavati and I couldn't wait to return on my next trip. ||||I booked 2 nights which went by in no time. The camp is beautiful, the chalet clean and comfortable, the view of the river bed from the deck and pool... I wish I had more time to enjoy everything. Tree house next time!!||||The food was delicious and they provided freshly baked gluten-free bread etc every day. They really understand how to cater for Coeliac and that's not something you can take for granted. The staff overall couldn't be nicer or look after you better. ||||The guides and trackers are exceptional and share their knowledge and experience with stories and big smiles. This goes beyond chasing the big 5, it's just as much fun watching dung beetles. And I loved my bush walk!!||||Take me back...

I visited Umlani with a group of eight friends from 1-4 November. It was a genuinely outstanding experience and one that I’m sure we will never forget. Michaela and the whole team couldn’t have been more welcoming and generous. Umlani is a stunning, tranquil bushcamp. Our rooms were all beautiful, the food was consistently excellent, and the service was excellent in all respects. I was blown away by the density of wildlife in the Timbavati reserve. We were clearly very lucky to see so many rare animals and scenes, but I have no doubt that this was also influenced by the area and our ranger/tracker. I was also impressed with the commitment to ensuring no more than two vehicles were at a sighting at any one time so as not to overwhelm the animals. Overall a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I couldn’t recommend Umlani enough to anyone considering it. Thank you!

Outstanding experience from start to finish. Homey, family atmosphere with excellent guides and trackers who do their absolute best to help you sight animals. The evening dinners are accompanied by parafin lanterns and there's a nearby fire for toasting marshmallows. I also recommend the walking safari which enables you to understand more about tracking, dung, flora, birds, trees and insects. To top it off, one can also arrange a yoga session, tuning in and stretching your body surrounded by the sounds of the birds, frogs and possibly even strolling elephants (yes, it happens)!

From the moment we arrived, we felt completely at home. The lodge offers a breathtaking Kruger park view. Rangers are well aware of animals, their habits and behavior. We have never felt any fear, only the joy to see big fives and more than that in their habitat. What made the experience even more special was the warm, personal touch. The breakfast, lunch and dining are lovingly prepared by the team, and if you ask kindly, they're happy to customize it to your taste. Everything is spotlessly clean, and the calm, peaceful atmosphere makes it the perfect place to relax and recharge. The staff is absolutely wonderful - always kind, helpful, and attentive without ever being intrusive. The owner genuinely cares about the guests and is always ready to help with anything you might need. You can really feel that this lodge is run with heart. If you're looking for a quiet, beautiful, and welcoming place to do your safari experience, Umlani lodge is without a doubt the best choice.

We returned to Umlani Bush Camp in the Timbavati this April for our second visit, and once again had an absolutely fantastic time. The lodge has seen a few subtle renovations and upgrades — all beautifully done, enhancing the experience without losing any of the rustic bush charm that makes Umlani so special. From the warm hospitality to the delicious food and thoughtful hosting, everything was spot on. The team has truly nailed the balance between comfort and authenticity, making it feel like a genuine escape into nature. We’re already looking forward to our next visit. Highly recommended!

There is nothing quite like being treated by your "Sugnificant Other" to a week's holiday in the Bushveld. The air has that special quality that carries the scents of plants and animals in that unique blend that allows you to forget there is a strident World that is far ,far away. Umlani's comfortable lifestyle allows it's clients to relax and enjoy being "in the Bush while its Staff take care of the mundane trappings such as meals, finding views of the abundant game animals and serving sundowner cocktails overlooking one of many dams where they can be watchied by the beady eyes of the resudent Hippopotamuses,