Overview
Private oasis in Kibwezi Forest
Owned by Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Umani Springs is a small luxury bush home at the eastern foot of the Chyulu Hills within Kibwezi Forest, an ancient groundwater forest known for its wealth of butterflies and pristine springs.
Each of Umani Springs’ three bedroom units feels like its own private oasis. The rooms are a combination of queen and twin beds, sleeping up to ten people across the property. All rooms feature private verandas, open-air en-suite bathrooms, and personal lounge areas. At the heart of the property is an airy living and dining area, which provides a communal space for you to enjoy each others company. Relax on the expansive deck and enjoy vistas across the Umani glade. Take a dip in the lagoon pool and or play a game on the property’s green lawns.
Immerse yourself in this pristine habitat, which is renowned for its diverse range of birds and other wild creatures. You will also have special access to the SWT’s Umani Springs Reintegration Unit, where you can have a firsthand look at Sheldrick's work rescuing and raising orphaned elephants.
Facts
At a glance
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Three bedrooms
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Self-catered
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Swimming pool
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Special access to Sheldrick Wildlife Trust's Umani Springs Elephant Reintegration Unit

Conservation
Gazetted in 1936, the Kibwezi Forest is part of a network of protected zones under the protection of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in partnership with the Kenya Forest Service, communities and others. Since 2011, the SWT has made enormous progress in reversing environmental degradation of past years. Today, the forest is rapidly regenerating and its wild residents are flourishing. It is also home to the SWT’s newest Reintegration Unit, which offers physically compromised elephants a path to a wild future. Umani Springs along with five other properties, makes up the SWT’s not-forprofit portfolio of eco-lodges. By staying at our eco-lodges, you are directly contributing to the preservation of the surrounding ecosystem: all revenue generated is put towards conservation initiatives.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra


Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.