On one side are the slopes of Sabyinyo, one of five inactive volcanoes in the park, making this the first high-end lodging in an area that, along with the adjoining parks in Uganda and Congo, is the last refuge of the endangered mountain gorilla. From the deep veranda of any of the eight chalets (outfitted in warm hues and African materials), you can see the mist-shrouded hills made famous by the late zoologist Dian Fossey. These income streams, now totalling over $3.1Million, are the driving force behind the socio-economic development projects undertaken by SACOLA and have directly benefited some 5,800 households and had a very positive impact on the lives of local people and gorilla conservation.In the decade-plus since Rwanda’s devastating 1994 genocide, tourism has been gradually rebounding, and emerging ventures that complement the country’s natural riches, including the much-anticipated Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, are now opening their doors. Lease rentals and a community development levy paid by every guest staying at the lodge are received by SACOLA. In partnership with The African Wildlife Foundation (“AWF”) and The International Gorilla Conservation Program (“IGCP”), it was decided that the ownership of the lodge would rest with a Community Trust, “SACOLA”.
The idea was to develop a lodge whose revenue streams would improve the lives of local community members and directly support gorilla conservation. “Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge was conceived and is operated by The Governors’ Camp Collection. The lodge is an exciting combination of a world-class lodge and a financial source driving socio-economic development and conservation initiatives in the areas adjacent to the Parc National des Volcans. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is Rwanda’s first ever community owned lodge. They can be reached by driving on either conventional tarmac roads or alternatively along a charming small dirt track that follows the contour of the Volcanoes Range. The twin lakes are located about 45 minutes by car from Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge. Here visitors can overlook both lakes soaking up the beautiful, undisturbed scenery whilst enjoying a refreshing drink. Walking and birdwatching are possible in both the hills and at some points around the lakes, however due to the very steep character of the landscape most visitors prefer to drive up the small track leading to a lodge situated on the top of the hill. The area is very picturesque, with steep and intensively farmed hills surrounding the pristine dark blue waters, offering magnificent views over the whole of the Virunga Volcanoes. The lakes are fed by various rivers and a lake in Uganda. The cuisine at the lodge is nothing short of delightful, both on the eyes and palate, matched with exceptional service and truly magical atmospheres.īetween Musanze and the Ugandan border is where you’ll find two mesmerising scenic lakes usually referred to as the twin lakes Lake Bulera and Lake Ruhondo. The main lodge building is designed with guests in mind – with assorted seating areas in the main lounge, reception and an entertainment room providing intimate privacy, or the opportunity to meet other guests. The cottages host the perfect base from which to explore this unique and fascinating corner of Africa.
Each beautifully appointed en-suite cottage, with its country-chic style and open log fires, is an ideal haven of warmth and luxury. All guest cottages are discretely situated in the folds of the hills and amongst the verdant vegetation of the Sabyinyo property. The 5-star lodge boasts a prime location, set on the edge of the Parc National des Volcanos in a lush green property of 11 hectares, enjoying breath-taking and dramatic views of the surrounding volcanoes.