All You Need to Know About Umusambi Conservancy Village

All You Need to Know About Umusambi Conservancy Village

Umusambi Conservancy Village is one of Rwanda’s most unique and captivating destinations, especially for visitors exploring Kigali or embarking on wildlife tours. Its proximity to Kigali International Airport makes it an ideal stopover for travelers arriving in the country. The village is famous for its Grey Crowned Cranes, locally known as “Inyoni” in Kinyarwanda, and serves as Rwanda’s only safe haven for these stunning birds after their rescue and rehabilitation.

The conservancy spans approximately 12 hectares of beautifully restored wetland, providing a sanctuary for over 50 endangered Grey Crowned Cranes rescued from captivity. Beyond these rehabilitated birds, the surrounding area has become a permanent home to more than 400 cranes living freely in the wild. Managed by the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association (RWCA), the conservancy actively works to halt illegal bird trade, raise public awareness, and return rescued cranes to their natural habitats.

For bird enthusiasts and nature lovers, a visit to Umusambi Village is an immersive experience. Walking trails meander through the wetlands, offering opportunities to observe cranes up close and learn about the vital role of environmental conservation. The village is not only a peaceful refuge for the birds but also an educational space where visitors can engage with nature and support wildlife preservation efforts.

Conservation Efforts and Success Stories

Since the establishment of Umusambi Village, staff have monitored and documented numerous cranes suffering from injuries, often caused by captivity or improper handling during transportation. To date, approximately 166 Grey Crowned Cranes have been successfully reintroduced into the wild at Akagera National Park, with around 250 cranes rescued in total. The conservancy serves as a permanent sanctuary for those unable to return to the wild due to permanent injuries, ensuring they live in safety while contributing to public education and awareness.

The Grey Crowned Cranes in Rwanda faced serious threats of extinction, largely due to local practices of capturing them for pets or trade. To prevent their escape, captors often broke their wings or plucked their flight feathers, leaving the birds injured and unable to survive in the wild. Populations plummeted from around 2,500 birds in the 1980s to just 500.

Conservationists advocated for protective legislation, and organizations like the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association established Umusambi Village to provide a safe haven for injured cranes. At the sanctuary, rehabilitated cranes receive dedicated care, with those capable of returning to the wild released back into protected habitats. Many cranes have now fully recovered, thriving and breeding successfully within the reserve, creating a safe haven for future generations.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Umusambi Conservancy Village is a haven of biodiversity. Its wetlands host a wide variety of species, from small mammals and amphibians to numerous birds and insects. Visitors may encounter species such as Trilling Cisticola, White-collared Oliveback, African Firefinch, Purple-crested Turaco, Palm Nut Vulture, Malachite Kingfisher, and Scarlet-chested Sunbird, among others.

According to the 2023 national census conducted by RWCA, 1,216 Grey Crowned Cranes were recorded, more than doubling the population from the first census in 2017. This remarkable recovery highlights the impact of dedicated conservation efforts.

Experiences and Activities at Umusambi Village

A visit to Umusambi Conservancy Village offers a range of activities for all types of travelers. Bird watching is the highlight, with trails providing access to grasslands, swamps, bushlands, and woodlands. Visitors can spot a variety of native and migratory birds, making it a top destination for birding enthusiasts.

The conservancy is also family-friendly, offering engaging activities for children such as scavenger hunts, coloring sessions, arts and crafts, clay modeling, and even tree planting. For those seeking a more private experience, exclusive dawn and dusk tours allow visitors to explore the wetlands outside regular hours, providing serene opportunities to observe wildlife undisturbed.

Visiting Umusambi Village Conservancy

Getting to Umusambi Village is straightforward. Located just eight minutes from Kigali International Airport, the conservancy is easily accessible by car, taxi, or motorbike. Its location along the road to Akagera National Park also makes it a convenient stopover for travelers heading to other wildlife destinations in Rwanda.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September, when the weather is more predictable, paths are accessible, and mosquitoes are fewer. The rainy season, from October to May, offers lush scenery and active wildlife but may make trails muddy and harder to navigate.

Entrance Fees

Entrance fees at Umusambi Village Conservancy are as follows: 20,000 RWF for international visitors, 10,000 RWF for residents, and 3,000 RWF for East African citizens. Children aged 2–16 pay 3,000 RWF, while those under two are admitted free. Additional fees apply for guided tours (15,000 RWF), binocular hire (3,000 RWF), and photography—50,000 RWF for non-commercial use and 150,000 RWF for commercial purposes.

Why Visit Umusambi Village

A visit to Umusambi Conservancy Village offers more than just a chance to see Rwanda’s iconic Grey Crowned Cranes. It provides an opportunity to learn about wetland ecosystems, biodiversity, and the importance of conservation. For travelers exploring Rwanda’s wildlife, Umusambi Village is a meaningful addition to a safari or gorilla trekking adventure, providing unforgettable encounters with nature and wildlife in a peaceful, restorative setting.