Parc Nacional des Volcans, Rwanda

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

Insider’s Review of Sabiyinyo Silverback Lodge

Spending time with gorillas is the experience of a lifetime, but why stay at Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge while doing so? Sabyinyo is luxurious, yes, but everything comes down to this lodge’s unbelievable location. When beginning your gorilla safari, being directly adjacent to the park makes mornings a breeze: wake to piping hot coffee delivered to your room, and soon after you’re whisked down to the park headquarters—no need for long drives between locations. And once your gorilla trek is done, you can enjoy the phenomenal views: the peaks of the volcanoes rising through the mist, the lush green rolling hills, and you on your private veranda with a relaxing cocktail, drinking in the beauty of Rwanda.

Lush and green, Rwanda’s Parc Nacional des Volcans is the quintessential jungle paradise, with the velvet-green slopes of the Virunga volcanoes as a stunning centerpiece. Buzzing with the sounds of jungle life, this rainforest still hosts the soft morning mists that gave Dr. Dian Fossey the title for her legendary book Gorillas in the Mist. And the rare and regal mountain gorilla still calls this place home: there are less than 900 of these amazing creatures left in the world.

Accommodations at Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

The setting for adventure could not be more perfect: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge provides stunning views of the majestic Virunga volcanoes and the patchwork of verdant farmland in the valley below. The lodge’s warm wood-and-stone aesthetic perfectly complements the striking mountain scenery, while the five luxury cottages, two suites and one family suite are all spacious and bright, with private verandas and cozy fireplaces. Local fabrics and neutral tones dominate the decorating for an authentic look.

A note for families & children

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is happy to host children of all ages. Please note that children under fifteen are not permitted by park regulations to visit the gorillas.

Amenities at Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

  • Laundry services
  • Computer with internet, but no wifi
  • Library
  • Gift shop
  • 24-hour electricity
  • Telephone

In-Room Amenities at Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

  • WiFi
  • Hairdryers
  • Private deck/veranda
  • En-suite bathrooms
  • Fireplace in common area

Activities at Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

Gorilla tracking is our raison d’être in this gorgeous place, and we embark on two full treks into the jungle:

Day 1

We trek into Parc Nacional des Volcans amidst the varied calls of birds and the hoots of monkeys. With our experienced trackers leading us through the brilliant green forest—overhanging vines, giant lobelias, mossy hagenia and African juniper trees—we come upon the goal of our journey: the endangered mountain gorilla.

It is another world: a gorilla family in the throes of their everyday life—feeding, playing, resting; raising their young. Encountering the silverback gorilla in its natural environs is among the most rare and captivating wildlife experiences imaginable.

Day 2

We make a second trek through the jungle to find these magnificent creatures once again. Park regulations allow for one hour alone with each family group of gorillas, giving us plenty of time to enjoy this singular experience. Treks usually return in time for a late lunch.

In the afternoons after spending time with the gorillas, you may hike to a waterfall for a refreshing swim; picnic on a feast provided by the Sabyinyo chef; or take a walk to a charming local village. Perhaps you’d prefer to visit a local orphanage, community project or school to catch a glimpse of everyday life, and gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s warm and resilient people. Micato can also arrange a performance of the fascinating Intore Dance Troupe. Founded hundreds of years ago, the Intore—literally “The Chosen Ones”—once performed exclusively for the Royal Court.

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