Umlani was founded in 1989 by Marco and Marie-Louise Schiess in the central section of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. In 1993, the fences between the Timbavati and the Kruger were removed to allow for wildlife migration and this pristine wilderness area became known as the Greater Kruger National Park.

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Marco and Marie-Louise's wish was to encapsulate their vision of a true African adventure in the very spirit and experience of the camp itself. They wanted the camp to blend in with the environment and as a result, the entire bush camp is built from natural materials in a traditional African style.

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All accommodation options have en-suite facilities including open-air bush showers for the ultimate stargazing experience.  They also offer comfortable beds, crisp white linen, soft towels, mosquito netting, insect repellent and standard bathroom amenities. There is also complimentary bottled water, although the tap water is perfectly safe to drink.