Wilderness Sabyinyo newsletter – August 2026

August delivered exceptional weather throughout the month, providing ideal conditions for guests embarking on their gorilla trekking adventures. The sunny days meant drier trails, less mud, and more comfortable hiking conditions, allowing our visitors to fully enjoy their adventure in the rainforest of the Virunga Mountains.

Many guests described their gorilla encounters as a truly unforgettable highlight of their visit to Rwanda.

One of our most popular annual events is the celebration of Wilderness Heritage Day, which this year coincided beautifully with the spirit of Umuganura, Rwanda's traditional harvest festival. Together, these celebrations created a meaningful opportunity to honour our culture, reflect on the rewards of hard work, and express gratitude for the abundance that surrounds us.

Guests were immersed in the richness of Rwandan traditions through our staff’s cultural performances and interactive experiences, including traditional wedding ceremonies and customs that have been passed down through generations.  

The connection with Umuganura made the celebration even more special. Traditionally, it is a time for giving thanks for a successful harvest, recognising the importance of hard work, and sharing the fruits of collective efforts with family, friends, and community. It serves as a reminder that prosperity is achieved through unity, dedication, and mutual support.

The festivities culminated in an unforgettable Sabyinyo Sundowner, where culture, music, dance, storytelling, and the beauty of the surrounding wilderness came together in a spectacular celebration. Against the backdrop of the Virunga landscape, guests and staff shared an evening that reflected the very essence of both Wilderness Heritage Day and Umuganura: celebrating who we are, appreciating all that we have achieved, and looking toward the future with gratitude and hope.

It was a truly special occasion that honoured our traditions, celebrated our shared heritage, and strengthened the connections between our guests, our people, and the remarkable place we call home.

As part of its ongoing commitment to community development and environmental conservation, SACOLA (Sabyinyo Community Livelihood Association), in partnership with Wilderness Sabyinyo, continued its clean cooking initiative throughout August. The programme aims to support local communities in transitioning from traditional firewood cooking to cleaner and more sustainable gas cooking systems.

During this Phase Three of the initiative, 735 gas and gas stove units were distributed to households in the Kinigi and Nyange sectors. The programme has been warmly received by beneficiaries, all of whom expressed their sincere appreciation for the opportunity to move away from smoky kitchens, and embrace a cleaner, healthier way of cooking.

Beyond improving household well-being, the initiative also contributes to conservation efforts by reducing dependence on firewood and helping to ease pressure on surrounding forests. Community members are also being encouraged to take an active role in environmental restoration through the planting of indigenous trees ahead of the upcoming rainy season.

The clean cooking programme further supports broader conservation and resettlement efforts in the region, equipping communities with the knowledge and tools needed to adopt sustainable living practices. This initiative reflects the shared commitment of SACOLA and Wilderness Sabyinyo to creating a future where community development, environmental stewardship, and improved quality of life go hand in hand.

Wilderness Sabyinyo in Rwanda is a Michelin 5-Star experience. Every aspect of this experience has been meticulously planned and executed by a team of experts who attended to all of our needs to insure the most memorable and magical experience of our lives. Each gorilla safari was visceral and highly spiritual and organized. The people we met on road were so welcoming and gentle.
We understand that the government is planning to expand the gorilla park and building upgraded villages for the public to help the surrounding communities thrive and prosper.
We shall absolutely return to visit here again.

– J & R, U.S.A

Absolutely everything, what an incredible life changing experience.  Moses our transfer guide is incredible. Elie Camp General Manager most hospitable and one can sense a lovely cohesive atmosphere at the lodge between all the staff. The lodge is perfectly situated, the ambiance of the old farmhouse style is beautiful and fits in so well. We stayed in the family cottage, it was my dream bedroom, the fire place created a beautiful setting. Clement our housekeeper was so attentive and polite. Sugira is an asset in FOH, Anita and Rose were the most polite sweet waitresses. The food was out of this world, beautiful variety and options. Love fresh produce 10/10. What a privilege, well done to all for running this top-class operation. I will most definitely be recommending it.

– Morton family, S.A.