Umusambi Village
Umusambi Village is Rwanda's only safe haven for rescued Grey Crowned Cranes, offering a peaceful sanctuary and beautiful nature trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See chicks & avoid crowds
Umusambi Village
Best Time
See chicks & avoid crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Umusambi Village is Rwanda's only safe haven for rescued Grey Crowned Cranes, offering a peaceful sanctuary and beautiful nature trails.
"A peaceful nature reserve which showcases the Rwandan national bird, the crested stork."
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera to photograph the cranes, diverse birdlife, and lush greenery.
🗺️ Navigate with Ease
Take a photo of the map at reception to easily find your way around the village.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grey Crowned Cranes
Injured or disabled cranes area
Witness Rwanda's national bird, the majestic Grey Crowned Crane, in a safe haven designed for their recovery and well-being.
Tranquil Nature Trails
Throughout the village
Wander through acres of serene natural beauty on well-maintained tracks, perfect for peaceful walks and birdwatching.
Butterfly Sanctuary
Designated area
Discover a vibrant world of fluttering butterflies in this enchanting sanctuary, offering a colorful and delicate experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Crane Encounters
Understand the Entrance Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera to photograph the cranes, diverse birdlife, and lush greenery.
🗺️ Navigate with Ease
Take a photo of the map at reception to easily find your way around the village.
☂️ Be Prepared for Rain
Umbrellas are provided if it starts raining, ensuring a comfortable visit.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Enjoy a picnic in the designated area near bamboo trees and a water body.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera to photograph the cranes, diverse birdlife, and lush greenery.
🗺️ Navigate with Ease
Take a photo of the map at reception to easily find your way around the village.
☂️ Be Prepared for Rain
Umbrellas are provided if it starts raining, ensuring a comfortable visit.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Enjoy a picnic in the designated area near bamboo trees and a water body.
🐦 Birdwatcher's Paradise
Explore the excellent trail network for birdwatching and discovering various species.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Umusambi Village is praised as a peaceful and well-maintained nature reserve, offering a serene escape with its beautiful trails and the chance to see Rwanda's national bird, the Grey Crowned Crane. Visitors appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the conservation efforts, though some find the entrance fees to be on the higher side for international visitors.
"A nature reserve which showcases the Rwandan national bird, the crested stork. Set in several acres, there are beautiful tracks to walk and a guide to keep you informed along the way."
Simon Giles
"Umisambi village is a noce place for bird watching and other outdoor activities away from the city crowds and noise. It’s very expensive to enter compared to other places in kigali. Entrance fee for international visitors is 20 thousand Rwandan francs, whis is around 15 United States dollars. For foreign recedente entrance fee is 10 thousand Rwandan francs, that equals 7 to 8 United States dollars. It’s way cheaper for the Rwandan visitors and also for kids and students from the local population. One should come as early as possible because the place closes at 5 pm. They have a noce restaurant outside and some areas inside, like the butterflies sanctuary require additional payment of 2 thousand Rwandan francs, around 1.5 United States dollars. For those wanting to curate a picnic there is a nice picnic area inside near some huge bamboo trees and some small water body. You are guaranteed to see the crane birds in the injured or disabled cranes area, also, some birds have nests near the same area where you maybe able to see the small chicks if you’re lucky. The place is well kept but you need to take a picture of the map in the reception in order to navigate without wasting time. It’s well worth visiting."
Amer Salih
"Peaceful nature and a place full of discovery — the perfect spot to relax and explore."
Fedy Abid
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Umusambi Village is located in Kigali. You can reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services. Many visitors use apps like Go Kigali or Uber.
While public transport might be an option to get to the general area, using a taxi or ride-sharing service is generally more convenient for reaching the village directly.
Umusambi Village typically closes at 5 PM. It's best to visit earlier in the day to make the most of your time.
Yes, you can visit on weekends. The trivia competition is held on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM.
Information on specific parking availability is limited, but it's generally advisable to use taxis or ride-sharing services for ease of access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees vary: international visitors pay 20,000 Rwandan Francs, foreign residents pay 10,000 Rwandan Francs, and Rwandan citizens/students have a cheaper rate.
Yes, there is an additional payment of 2,000 Rwandan Francs to enter the butterfly sanctuary.
Advance booking information is not widely available, but it's recommended to check their official channels or arrive early, especially during peak times.
Yes, there are cheaper rates for Rwandan children and students.
The entrance fee generally includes access to the grounds, trails, and viewing areas for the cranes. The butterfly sanctuary has a separate fee.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the Grey Crowned Crane, Rwanda's national bird. You can also spot other diverse birdlife and insects during your visit.
Yes, guides are available to provide information about the birds and the sanctuary.
Absolutely! There's a nice picnic area located near bamboo trees and a small water body.
Yes, it's described as a peaceful and relaxing place, perfect for unwinding away from city noise.
You can enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, photography, and participate in their trivia competitions. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a nice restaurant located just outside the village, and some areas inside offer dining options.
Yes, Umusambi Village has a designated picnic area where you can enjoy your own food.
Specific menu details are not provided, but it's described as a 'nice restaurant' offering dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas around the cranes, the nature trails, and the butterfly sanctuary offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always good to be mindful of the delicate environment and any specific rules within the sanctuary.
Yes, you can take photos of the cranes. They are kept in a natural setting, allowing for respectful observation and photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The nature trails provide a safe space for children to explore and discover various insects and plants, making it an engaging outdoor adventure. Consider visiting during the Umusambi Trivia Competition held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays for an interactive learning experience.
Packing a picnic is also a great idea, allowing families to enjoy a meal amidst the serene natural surroundings. 🌿 Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers
The primary focus is on the rescued Grey Crowned Cranes, but the diverse ecosystem supports a rich array of birdlife. Take your time to wander through the acres of greenery, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the tranquility. The butterfly sanctuary is another delightful feature for nature enthusiasts.
📸 Photographers
+1 Capture the vibrant colors of the butterfly sanctuary and the serene beauty of the nature trails adorned with diverse flora. Early morning visits can offer softer light and potentially more active wildlife. Remember to be respectful of the animals and the environment while you capture your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Conservation: Rescued Cranes
+1 The village provides them with a safe and natural environment where they can recover and live out their lives. This conservation effort is crucial, as the species was once facing extinction. Visitors can observe these magnificent birds in their enclosures, learning about their individual stories and the importance of protecting endangered species. The presence of these cranes is a powerful reminder of the impact of human activity on wildlife and the necessity of dedicated conservation initiatives like Umusambi Village.
+1Beyond the cranes, the village also serves as a haven for other rescued birds and aims to educate the younger generation about conservation. Through initiatives like the 'Umusambi Trivia Competition,' they foster a love for nature and wildlife in Rwandan youth.
+1Exploring the Natural Beauty
+1The diverse flora and fauna contribute to the village's charm. Besides the cranes, visitors can spot various other bird species, lizards, insects, and a variety of flowers.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Umusambi Village is perfect for birdwatching and photography. The well-designed trail network enhances the exploration experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
Whether you're alone or with loved ones, the village offers a refreshing and discovery-filled outing. Community Engagement and Education
+1 This program aims to inspire the next generation of conservationists by fostering an appreciation for Rwanda's natural heritage. The village also provides a welcoming space for various events and gatherings. It's a popular spot for birthday celebrations and relaxed picnics, offering a unique and natural setting for special occasions.
+1 The ability to host such events highlights the village's role not just as a sanctuary but also as a community hub that promotes well-being and connection with nature. By combining conservation, education, and community engagement, Umusambi Village plays a significant role in promoting environmental awareness and fostering a sense of responsibility towards wildlife preservation in Rwanda.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit