Overview
Volcano views
Sabyinyo, Rwanda’s first ever community-owned lodge, can be found in a scenic hilltop position looking out across the surrounding countryside and up to the imposing peaks of Volcanoes National Park.
Surrounded by verdurous grounds – a haven for birdlife – are six handsome cottages, two suites and a family cottage. Built from stone with Rwandese terracotta tile roof. Each features a large sitting area, fireplace for cool nights, en suite bathroom, and a sheltered veranda. The family cottage comprises two independent rooms connected by a shared verandah.
The main lodge building contains a fire-warmed lounge, dining area and library, along with outdoor terrace areas making the most of the views.
Facts
At a glance
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Six cottages, two suites and one family cottage
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Dining room and bar
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Lounge and library
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Outdoor terrace
Experiences
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![Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge 7]()
Gorilla trekking
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is a great base for gorilla trekking, located just 15 minutes from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters where they start each morning.
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![Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge 5]()
Golden monkeys
Trekking to see the golden monkeys is another highlight of Volcanoes National Park. A subspecies endemic to the high altitude forests here, they are playful and inquisitive and often spend their time leaping from bamboo branches or frolicking on the forest floor.
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![Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge 15]()
Birdwatching
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge property extends over some 7 hectares and is a heaven for all kinds of local birds. Take a guided walk with a birding guide to spot some of them.
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![Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge 9]()
Mountain bike rides
Join a staff member and keen mountain biker guide who'll share their enthusiasm and knowledge of the local area during the excursion.
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![Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge 4]()
Cultural walks
Enjoy a guided community walk for a fascinating insight into Rwandan rural life today, as well as a glimpse into life in the historical past.
Community & Culture
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is Rwanda’s first ever community-owned lodge. The lodge was built and is operated by Governors’ Camp Collection, but the ownership rests with a Community Trust, SACOLA (Sabyinyo Community Livelihood Association) which uses rentals and community fees from the lodge to drive socio-economic and conservation initiatives in the communities adjacent to the National Park.
SACOLA began its socio-economic development programs and conservation initiatives in Kinigi, the area adjacent to Volcanoes National Park in 2006, and in the years since its inception, SACOLA’s programs have directly benefited over 5000 households in the Kinigi area. Since opening Sabyinyo, SACOLA has received nearly US$4 million from the lodge and its guests which has facilitated many community projects and conservation projects
Conservation
SACOLA’s programs also support the excellent conservation work being done in the region by African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) and its local partner, the International Gorilla Conservation Programme (IGCP).
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
