Discovering the wonders of Mount Sabyinyo
Discovering Mount Sabyinyo: This remarkable extinct volcano in Rwanda rises majestically to an elevation of 3,669 meters above sea level. It is recognized as the most ancient in the Virunga ranges, standing proudly at the crossroads of three nations, defining the borders between Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda. Mount Sabyinyo volcano links the three national parks of the rainforest, established by the three countries, all sharing a remarkable and sought-after attraction: the mountain gorillas. These parks include Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda. The mountain boasts three majestic peaks. The name originates from a local Kinyarwanda word that translates to “old man’s teeth.” The name comes from the mountain summit is resemblance to a worn-out tooth in gum.
The mountain is strategically positioned in the northeast of Lake Kivu in Rwanda and west of Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda, making it one of the premier hiking destinations in the Virunga ranges. It offers breathtaking views and is nestled within the neighboring national parks of the three countries.
Embarking on a journey to mount Sabyinyo typically spans 7 to 8 days, influenced by the chosen route and pace. Standing at around 3,966 meters above sea level, the experience of reaching the summit, where three countries converge, is truly remarkable and filled with excitement.
On the Uganda side, the hike presents its challenges, yet there are areas equipped with handmade ladders to aid climbers and hikers. Walking sticks are readily available to assist in the ascent, but the effort is well worth it as you are greeted by the enchanting forest patches of Hagenia Hypericum between 2800 and 3200 meters, followed by the stunning sub-alpine zone above 3200 meters.
Exciting pursuits to explore beyond hiking at Mount Sabyinyo
Embarking on a journey to observe gorillas in their natural habitat
Gorilla trekking stands out as the premier experience on Mount Sabyinyo, where the majestic volcano connects three national parks across three countries, all sharing a remarkable allure: the mountain gorillas. Adventurous travelers embark on treks to encounter these incredible creatures, and once located, they are granted an hour to engage with these captivating apes. Observers can witness their daily routines, from grooming to playful interactions, making for an unforgettable experience. Photography plays a crucial role, especially during that one hour when you have the opportunity to capture stunning images of these incredible primates in their natural habitat.
Embarking on a journey to encounter the golden monkeys
Similar to mountain gorillas, golden monkeys are exclusively found in the Virunga ranges and Mgahinga National Park, which proudly hosts the highest concentration of these remarkable monkeys, renowned for their camera-loving nature and playful personalities. This adventure takes you deep into the Bamboo forest to seek out a troop of already habituated golden monkeys. The golden monkeys can frequently be spotted frolicking and leaping from branch to branch. When photographing them, it is essential to find the perfect angle to seize the most stunning images of these incredible creatures.
Exploring the world of birds
An estimated bird population of around 180 species thrives in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, with most of them being Albertine rift and forest birds. They encompass a vibrant array of species, including grey crowned cranes, Rwenzori Turaco, Rwenzori double collared sunbirds, Kivu ground thrush, Double-toothed barbet, grey capped warblers, Yellow-vented bulbul, speckled mousebird, fire finch, stone chat, White-tailed blue flycatchers, dusky turtle dove, montane double collared sunbird, Blagden’s bush shrike, Alpine chat, black kite, handsome francolins, crowned hornbill, Chubb’s cisticola, yellow-throated longclaw, yellow-crowned canary, scarlet tufted malachite sunbird, grassland pipit, cinnamon chested bee-eaters, and many more.
What essentials to bring for an exploration of Sabyinyo volcano?
When preparing for your hiking journey in Mgahinga National Park, especially at Mount Sabyinyo, be sure to pack a rain jacket, long pants, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, trousers, a waterproof daypack, camping gear, a camera, a long-sleeved shirt, a first aid kit, bottled drinking water, a sweater, insect repellent, and don’t forget to bring a walking stick on the day of your hike.
Fees for the exhilarating hike up Mount Sabyinyo
Embarking on a hike through mount Sabyinyo starts at 8:00 am, and a permit fee is necessary. The cost for hiking each Sabyinyo volcano is 85 US$ per person. This covers the fees for guides or rangers as well as park entrance costs. Permits are available at the Uganda Wildlife Authority offices in Kisoro, or we can assist you with arrangements, including accommodation options. Booking the hike a day or two in advance is possible, but securing your spot earlier is always a wise choice. Adventurous hikes to the summit of this enchanting volcano start at the Ntebeko offices of Mgahinga Park, located in Southwestern Uganda. An expert guide will be assigned to navigate your hiking group to the summit of the Sabyinyo volcano.
Discovering Mount Sabyinyo Accommodations
There are numerous lodging options in and around Mgahinga National Park in Uganda. Among the options are Mucha Hotel Kisoro, Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp, Traveler’s Rest Hotel Kisoro, Mutanda Lake Resort, Kisoro Tourist Hotel, Mgahinga Rest Camp, and Gahinga Lodge, to name a few.
In the vicinity of the Rushaga sector of Bwindi National Park, numerous accommodations await visitors for an overnight stay, providing a perfect base to embark on thrilling hikes to Mgahinga National Park. This collection features Rushaga Gorilla Lodge, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Valley Lodge, Bwindi Jungle Lodge, Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Resort, Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, Nshongi Camp, and more.
Journeying to Mount Sabyinyo
By road: adventurers can embark on an 8-10 hour journey from Kampala or Entebbe, passing through Masaka-Mbarara to reach Kisoro. From there, a brief drive will take you to Mgahinga National Park, where you can hike the majestic Mount Sabyinyo. From Kigali, those seeking an exhilarating hike can traverse the Chanika border to Kisoro and then make their way to Mgahinga National Park. The journey from Kigali to Mgahinga National Park in Southwestern Uganda spans about 4-5 hours by car.
By air; fly-in tours can be arranged or planned for by a ground flight with us, and the flights set off at Entebbe International Airport or at Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro for your captivating hiking safari.
Finally, Mount Sabyinyo presents a formidable hiking challenge, yet it rewards climbers and hikers with transformative experiences. While on a gorilla safari in Rwanda, be sure to ascend the breathtaking peaks of this remarkable volcanic landscape. Embark on hiking safaris in Rwanda with us
