Wilderness Sabyinyo
Rwanda’s first-ever community-owned lodge in the foothills of Virunga
Wilderness Sabyinyo
Nestled in the foothills of the misty Virunga Mountains, Wilderness Sabyinyo offers a luxurious base for families embarking on a safari through Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
One of the main highlights is the opportunity to trek to see Rwanda’s iconic mountain gorillas, offering families a rare chance to get close to one of the 12 gorilla families in their natural habitat. Beyond gorilla trekking, there’s the excitement of golden monkey treks, visits to Dian Fossey’s research camp, and guided walks through the camp’s lush gardens to spot endemic bird species. Families can also visit the Sabyinyo village to learn how Rwandan crops are grown and milled, watch an energetic dance performance and gain a meaningful insight into rural Rwandan life.
The lodge itself is the first community-owned lodge in Rwanda – operated by Wilderness yet owned by the SACOLA community trust – providing not only luxurious accommodation but also supporting local communities through sustainable gorilla tourism. Families can unwind in the terracotta-tiled family cottage, complete with two separate en-suite bedrooms and a welcoming fireplace for cosy evenings.
With its stunning views, unique wildlife encounters, and commitment to community-driven conservation, Wilderness Sabyinyo offers families an adventure that supports both the local wildlife and the communities that have lived here for generations.
Coral Tree luxury rating
Number of rooms
9 cottages, including a family cottage
Location
Volcanoes National Park
Child Policy
Children of all ages
Why we love it
‘Sabyinyo is a family-friendly lodge with stunning panoramic views of Volcanoes National Park, providing a more relaxed alternative to more opulent Wilderness lodges’
Key Highlights & Amenities
- Experience thrilling mountain gorilla and golden monkey trekking
- Each cottage has stunning views across Karisimbi, Bisoke, Mikeno and Sabyinyo volcanoes
- Two-bedroom family cottage has a shared verandah and cosy fireplace
- Guided community walks and visit to Sabyinyo village