Safari Rating
For those interested in seeing the Mountain Gorilla in its natural habitat, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge in Rwanda offers the perfect location to base yourself as it is located only 15 minute’s drive from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters, the starting point for the Gorilla treks!
Itinerary in Brief
3 Nights Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Spending time with mountain gorillas is truly one of the most memorable and dramatic wildlife experiences on earth. Being in and amongst a gorilla family is sure to create memories and impressions that you will never forget.
The walk that tourists take to get to the gorillas is an experience in itself, as it brings you to one of the most beautiful places on earth. This is one of the few remaining tropical mountain forests, located on the steep slopes of the Virunga volcanoes. Gorilla groups are spread out everywhere among the five volcanic mountains (Karisimbi, Bisoke, Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura), so depending on which group you are going to visit, your itinerary will differ. The walk to reach a gorilla group can take from one to several hours, but no matter how long it is, the end result is always amazing.
This 4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari has you accommodated at a very conveniently located lodge, perfect for setting off to go Gorilla Trekking. With 3-nights, you have ample time, giving you the option to do a second Gorilla trek or take part in a multitude of other activities available in the area. With the starting point being Kigali, this short safari is combinable with almost all other countries and safaris we offer.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Kigali – Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Arrive into Kigali and spend a short morning getting acquainted with Africa’s most inspirational city. Since its dark days of the Genocide, Rwanda has become a shining example of stability, peace and unstoppable progress. Building upon a culture of remembrance, forgiveness and learning, Rwanda is a beacon of inspiration for the world. Kigali is a clean and bright city, amid Rwanda’s famous rolling hills. After a visit to the Genocide Museum, take a 2-hour drive through Rwanda’s sculpted hills to the edge of Volcanoes National Park. Arrive at Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge in time for a late lunch, then relax and get acquainted with your surroundings. Enjoy a firelit dinner before retiring for the night, as tomorrow will be a big day!
Day 2: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Today you trek! Arise very early to a wakeup call with tea or coffee. Arrive to the Main Lodge where you find the Sabyinyo staff waiting to prepare you for the trek with hiking equipment. After a full breakfast, leave the lodge at 6:30am for the 10-minute drive to the National Park Headquarters where you will be assigned a Gorilla family. From here you will drive to the start of your hike to the gorilla family. Enjoy! After your hike, your afternoon is at leisure – we can recommend a massage from one of our qualified masseuses. Cocktails will be served in the lounge, before another dinner by firelight.
Day 3: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Today you have the choice of a second gorilla trek, or perhaps doing a Golden Monkey trek. There are a number of hikes available in the Park, including the Dian Fossey trek to her original research station Karisoke, or to the top of Bisoke Mountain to see the Crater Lake. Other nearby activities include visiting the Twin Lakes, a nature and birding walk in the sacred Buhanga Forest, or a visit to the bustling Ruhengeri Market for a spot of shopping. We highly recommend doing the SACOLA Community Walk as a fascinating and enlightening experience, introducing you to traditional Rwandan culture as well as viewing the socio economic development of the area, made possible through tourism.
Day 4: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge – Kigali
After a leisurely breakfast, depart back to Kigali. Numerous activities can be enjoyed on this day in Kigali, including a “bean-to-cup” and barista master class at Question Coffee, a tour and gift shopping at the Nyamirambo Women’s Centre, and late lunch with a spectacular view at Pili Pili restaurant. Your driver will deliver you to the airport in time for your international flight.
When to go
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Volcanoes National Park |
The Accommodation
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