Nestled amidst the foothills of the mighty Virunga volcanoes in Rwanda, Wilderness Sabyinyo offers a unique blend of luxurious comfort, breathtaking scenery, and impactful gorilla tourism. While not quite reaching the five-star opulence of its Wilderness sibling Bisate, Sabyinyo delivers a remarkable wildlife experience at a slightly more accessible price point.
Awarded: Bronze
Location
Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge is located within Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, placing it just one kilometer from the park headquarters. This proximity offers convenient access to gorilla trekking starting points, minimizing travel time on gorilla trekking days. The lodge itself is a two-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city. For international travelers, convenient daily flights operate between Nairobi, Kenya and Kigali.
Rooms
Accommodation at Wilderness Sabyinyo consists of individual stone cottages. Built with local materials and featuring terracotta tile roofs, these cottages offer a blend of comfort and a connection to the surrounding environment. Each unit features a spacious sitting area, a bedroom, an en-suite bathroom, and a dressing room. A private veranda allows guests to enjoy panoramic views of the Virunga volcanoes and the Rwandan countryside. Family units are also available, featuring an additional bedroom with its own en-suite bathroom.
Communal Areas
The main lodge building serves as a communal space. This area features a comfortable sitting room, a dedicated dining area, a library/games room, and a well-stocked shop selling souvenirs and essentials. Two expansive patios offer opportunities to relax and take in the views of the Virunga massif, a volcanic chain spanning Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Open fireplaces add a touch of ambiance to the communal areas.
Activities
Beyond gorilla trekking, the lodge offers a variety of activities suitable for different fitness levels and interests. Those seeking an adrenaline rush can opt for a golden monkey trek, encountering these playful primates in their natural habitat. For the more ornithologically inclined, guided birdwatching walks unveil the park’s rich avian diversity, with over 40 species recorded on the lodge grounds alone. Hikers can embark on trails leading to Mount Karisimbi or Mount Bisoke, both offering stunning panoramic vistas. A visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund’s Ellen DeGeneres Campus or the nearby research center ruins provides insights into gorilla conservation efforts. For a leisurely pursuit, a stroll through the lodge’s vegetable garden fosters a connection with the property’s farm-to-table philosophy. Ultimately, Wilderness Sabyinyo caters to a range of interests, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of Volcanoes National Park’s rich biodiversity and Rwandan culture.
All Inclusive
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
DRIER PERIOD
A slightly drier interlude before the more intense long rains arrive in March.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
DRIER PERIOD
A slightly drier interlude before the more intense long rains arrive in March.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
Whilst rain is possible throughout the year, during this period rainfall tends to be more intense and prolonged.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
Whilst rain is possible throughout the year, during this period rainfall tends to be more intense and prolonged.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
Whilst rain is possible throughout the year, during this period rainfall tends to be more intense and prolonged.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
DRY SEASON
A brief drier interlude before the more consistent rains arrive in October.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
DRY SEASON
A brief drier interlude before the more consistent rains arrive in October.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
DRY SEASON
A brief drier interlude before the more consistent rains arrive in October.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
DRIER PERIOD
A slightly drier interlude before the more intense long rains arrive in October.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
Whilst rain is possible throughout the year, during this period rainfall tends to be more intense and prolonged.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
Whilst rain is possible throughout the year, during this period rainfall tends to be more intense and prolonged.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
Whilst rain is possible throughout the year, during this period rainfall tends to be more intense and prolonged.
Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.
Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.
The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
Explore Volcanoes National Park Properties
-
Bisate Lodge
Bisate Lodge
Bisate Lodge has truly raised the bar for eco-luxury travel in Rwanda and East Africa. Operated by the esteemed Wilderness Safari group, the lodge not only offers ..
-
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Mere moments from the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel is a relaxing and simply designed hotel with picturesque views over the Land ..
-
One& Only Gorilla’s Nest
One& Only Gorilla’s Nest
Gorillas Nest Lodge is a boutique cottage accommodation just five minutes from the gorilla trekking adventures of Volcanoes National Park. Sheltered by a fragrant ..
-
Sabyino Silverback Lodge
Sabyino Silverback Lodge
Sabyino Silverback Lodge is an unpretentious yet luxurious accommodation nestled in the foothills of the Virungas. The hotel remains a firm favourite amongst guests for ..
-
Singita Kataza House
Singita Kataza House
Singita Kataza House is a secluded and contemporary exclusive-use sanctuary crafted from volcanic rock and river stone. With a passionate commitment to sustainability and ..
-
Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Singita’s Kwitonda Lodge is a bold and contemporary accommodation, rising from the volcanic boulders of its surrounds. Designed with a strong dedication to ..
-
The Bishop’s House
The Bishop’s House
Set in a colonial manor, The Bishop’s House makes a luxurious and convenient base for gorilla trekking at the nearby Volcanoes National Park.
-
Virunga Lodge
Virunga Lodge
Virunga Lodge is a spectacularly located eco-friendly property with panoramic views of Rwanda’s lakes and volcanoes. With its idyllic location and rustically chic rooms ..
What People Say
-
The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
-
We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
-
Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
-
Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
-
Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
-
Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
-
Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
-
We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
-
Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
