Wilderness Sabyinyo

Established as Rwanda's first community-owned lodge, Wilderness Sabyinyo is operated by Wilderness but owned by the Sabyinyo Community Livelihood Association, a trust representing over seventy-five thousand people across six surrounding parishes. Lodge revenue after operating costs flows directly to community schools, health centres, water infrastructure, and micro-finance programmes. The lodge sits on sixteen hectares in the foothills of the Virunga volcanoes, minutes from Volcanoes National Park headquarters.

Nine stone buildings with terracotta tile roofs hold six cottages, two suites, and one family unit. Each cottage has a sitting area, a fireplace, an en-suite bathroom with shower, and a deck overlooking the gardens. The two suites add a second deck, a bath, and king-size four-poster beds. The family unit comprises two separate bedrooms, each with en-suite facilities, plus a shared sitting area and deck. Space heaters supplement the log fires lit each evening.

Guided treks depart from park headquarters to twelve habituated mountain gorilla families within Volcanoes National Park. Golden monkey treks track groups of thirty to eighty individuals through bamboo forest. Guided walks across the property reveal over forty bird species, including the Rwenzori turaco. Cultural village visits show traditional agriculture, hand milling, and herbal medicine preparation. You can arrange a hike to Dian Fossey's research station and grave, or a day trip to Lake Kivu. Massages are available in-cottage. The main lodge has a restaurant, bar, library, and complimentary wireless internet.