Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge is located at the foot of the Virunga Massif. It offers guests an unforgettable experience in the heart of one of Africa’s most scenic and biodiverse regions. This world-class lodge combines breathtaking landscapes with a deep commitment to conservation and socio-economic development, making it the perfect destination for eco-conscious travelers.
Highlights
- Mountain Gorilla Treks: Get within meters of Rwanda’s iconic mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park.
- Community-Owned Lodge: Discover Rwanda’s first-ever community-owned lodge, a beacon of impactful tourism that drives conservation and local development.
- Golden Monkey and Birding Excursions: Enjoy thrilling golden monkey treks and spot endemic bird species, all just steps away from your luxurious accommodations.
A Scenic Retreat in the Virunga Mountains
Located on a lush 10.78-hectare property in the foothills of the Virunga Massif, Sabyinyo Lodge takes its name from the Sabyinyo volcano, meaning “old man’s teeth” in Kinyarwanda. The lodge’s dramatic backdrop of towering, mist-shrouded volcanoes invites guests to immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and conservation efforts.
The lodge is an excellent base for exploring Volcanoes National Park, home to the world-renowned mountain gorillas and other wildlife, including the lively golden monkeys. Whether you’re trekking through the bamboo forests or simply relaxing in your private cottage, Sabyinyo offers an unmatched connection to nature.
Experiences at Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge
Sabyinyo offers more than just luxury; it provides a gateway to Rwanda’s rich history and wildlife. Guests can embark on guided treks to visit the mountain gorillas, a once-in-a-lifetime experience, or hike to Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke for stunning vistas. A visit to the Dian Fossey research center and her grave is another moving experience, along with a tour of the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
For those seeking more leisurely activities, nature walks in search of endemic bird species or a tour of the lodge’s vegetable garden provide opportunities to explore at a slower pace. Cultural tours offer deeper insights into Rwanda’s rural life, traditional medicine, and farming techniques, highlighting the lodge’s commitment to community engagement and education.
The Purpose: Pioneering Conservation and Community Tourism
As Rwanda’s first community-owned lodge, Sabyinyo is a model of sustainable tourism. The lodge plays a crucial role in mountain gorilla conservation and is operated by Wilderness in partnership with the SACOLA community trust, the African Wildlife Foundation, and the International Gorilla Conservation Program (IGCP).
While staying at Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge, you can learn about the lodge’s impact on conservation efforts and the local community. A portion of the lodge’s profits goes to the SACOLA trust, supporting education, healthcare, infrastructure, and other vital community projects.
Wildlife Encounters
Volcanoes National Park is famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, which are habituated in 12 families that guests can visit on guided treks. Golden monkeys, another primate species endemic to the area, can also be seen in the park’s bamboo forests.
The park is home to various other wildlife, including side-striped jackals, black-fronted duikers, and bushbucks. Birders will be delighted to spot over 40 species of birds around the lodge, including the Rwenzori double-collared sunbird and the Rwenzori turaco.
Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge: A Luxurious Sanctuary
After a day of adventure, Sabyinyo Lodge offers a peaceful and luxurious retreat. Each of the lodge’s cottages is discreetly tucked into the hills, providing stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes. The charming cottages feature Rwandese terracotta tile roofs, spacious sitting areas, log fireplaces, and large verandas that overlook the bird-filled gardens.
The main lodge is designed to create a warm, intimate atmosphere for guests to unwind in after a day of exploring. With open-log fires, comfortable seating areas, and a fine-dining restaurant, Sabyinyo offers the perfect blend of luxury and rustic charm.
Room Options
- Cottages:
Sabyinyo’s six cottages offer spacious interiors with cozy fireplaces and large verandas. Each cottage has en-suite bathrooms, space heaters, and traditional Rwandese decor. - Family Cottage 1 Unit:
Ideal for families with older children. The family cottage features two separate bedrooms with en-suite facilities and a shared veranda. - Suites 2 Units:
Sabyinyo’s luxury suites are perfect for couples or honeymooners. They have expansive sitting areas, king-sized beds, and two verandas offering stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes.
Activities
- Gorilla Trekking:
Witness the iconic mountain gorillas up close during guided treks in Volcanoes National Park. - Golden Monkey Trekking:
Explore the bamboo forests to find these playful primates in their natural habitat. - Cultural Walks:
On guided cultural tours, learn about Rwanda’s rural life, agriculture, and traditional medicine. - Bird-Watching:
During guided bird-watching excursions or nature walks through the lodge’s grounds, you can spot over 40 bird species. - Visit Gorilla Guardian Village:
Meet ex-poachers who now work to protect the gorillas and showcase traditional Rwandan customs. - Trek to Dian Fossey Research Camp & Grave:
A poignant visit to the former research site of Dian Fossey, the world-renowned primatologist.
Room Price per Night at Sabyinyo Lodge
Rates start from $2,000 per night, depending on the season, room type, and occupancy. For more information, please visit the hotel website.