Volcanoes National Park
Wilderness Sabyinyo is situated in the foothills of the mighty Virungas, the chain of 15,000 ft volcanoes stretching through Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The lodge offers wonderful views of the volcanoes and the surrounding countryside.
The legendary Virunga Mountains are home to about half the world's total population of endangered mountain gorillas. This thrilling adventure takes place from the headquarters of the Volcanoes National Park from where clients trek on foot to see the magnificent mountain gorilla - perhaps one of the most dramatic, thrilling and poignant wildlife experiences possible. There are 12 gorilla families that you can visit.
Gorilla treks take place in the morning and depart from the Park headquarters at around 7.30 am. Prior to departure you are given a briefing by Park staff, assigned a gorilla family to visit and rangers to guide you. The treks take place on the slopes of the Virunga volcanoes and clients should be in good physical condition as some of the trek can be physically demanding. The trek normally lasts between 2 and 5 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family and a maximum of 8 visitors are allowed per gorilla family. Once you reach the gorillas you are permitted to stay for one hour to view them.
Other activities from the lodge include Golden Monkey treks, escorted birdwatching walks, mountain bike trails, cultural walks and a visit to the Dian Fossey Grave and Research Centre.
Accommodation at Wilderness Sabyinyo comprises 6 double cottages, 2 suites and one family cottage. All are stone buildings and feature large sitting areas, fireplaces, stylish en-suite bathrooms and a sheltered veranda. The family suite has a second bedroom with an en-suite bathroom.
The main lodge building comprises reception, sitting room with snug area, dining room, library / games room, a responsible tourism/community awareness room, and a curio shop. Three large fireplaces provide warmth and all rooms are finished with a polished wooden floor. Two patio areas offer wonderful and dramatic views to the Virunga volcanoes and the surrounding lowland farmland.
