Wilderness Sabyinyo newsletter – December 2024

December was busy at Sabyinyo, and we hosted more guests than September and October combined. We had families and honeymooners, and solo travellers who were here for the holidays; everyone made this festive season jollier than it seemed possible! 

Our guests were treated to very pleasant weather too, with the days being less rainy, making everyone’s treks in the national park most enjoyable, while the cooler evenings allowed most guests to participate in all the lodge activities.

Families travelling together to celebrate the holidays always make our season extra magical, and the combination of our Christmas specials like new menus, the bespoke cocktails, the decorations and carol singing, filled every room with laughter and so much joy – it was a truly unforgettable time for our guests and the Sabyinyo family.

The joy that our team creates during December is truly like no other; it’s like there’s a magic potion that is sprinkled into our system the minute we start the last month of the year. From the iconic red Christmas hats to getting to decorate the lodge, everyone is very excited to share this special magic with our guests, and the cheer that everyone has all month long is something we will always remember.

The holidays were made extra special for our staff this December when all our Five-year Champions – staff who have been at Sabyinyo for five years or more, were awarded with a certificate and a special bonus in recognition of all the hard work that they have put in. You should have seen the way our faces lit up when we got the news, which has given us inspiration to work even harder with Wilderness.

As we conclude the year together as a team, we look back at the wonderful year we’ve had as a team, from the growth that has been like no other, on a personal and career-wise basis, to the setbacks that we emerged from successfully as a team together, and we all cannot wait for what 2025 has in store for us.

The community kitchen garden initiative, supported by Wilderness, made significant strides in December 2024. As part of our ongoing effort to fight malnutrition and promote sustainable agriculture and food security, several community gardens have been established. Notably, vegetables such as cabbages, spinach, carrots, broccoli and onions are now nearing harvest, providing a nutritious food source for the local population.

Additionally, the second phase of the mushroom cultivation project is in full swing, with mushrooms set to be harvested in the coming months. The community members are also eagerly awaiting the fruits of the passionfruit plants, which were planted approximately one-and-a-half years ago. These gardens not only serve as a valuable food source but also as a means to generate income through the sale of produce.

The initiative has proven to be beneficial, with the local community reporting being educated on a more balanced diet due to the support from Wilderness. It’s expected that the project will continue to expand, further enhancing food security and promoting sustainable livelihoods for the community.

The development of the SACOLA Community Tourist Parking Area is progressing well. The project is being built in two phases, with Phase One now complete and operational. This first phase includes a functional parking area and washrooms, which have already been used by visitors. Early reports suggest that tourists are excited to park in the newly constructed space, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

Phase Two of the project will include additional amenities, such as a coffee shop, handicrafts shop, and changing rooms, offering a more comprehensive service to tourists, and creating further opportunities for local businesses. This development is expected to enhance the visitor experience, provide more employment opportunities, and support the local economy by encouraging tourists to spend more time in the area.

Once fully completed, the SACOLA Community Tourist Parking Area is poised to become a key asset for both the community and visitors, fostering a greater sense of pride and increasing tourism revenue in the region.

These reports highlight the positive impact of community-focused initiatives and the crucial role tourism plays in local economic development. The projects not only provide immediate benefits, but are laying the groundwork for sustainable growth in the future.

You spoiled us with every little detail, we felt so at home and thoroughly cared for, thank you for your gracious hospitality. – The F. Family; Oregon, California, New York City.

What an amazing adventure! A beautiful county and the most welcoming and amazing staff! Murakoze cyane for everything! – The V. Family; Manhattan Beach, CA, USA.

You are all wonderful! Caring and helpful. I loved my time here and hope to return to your beautiful country.  – SW; London.

We absolutely loved everything about this place! The hospitality was phenomenal and attention to detail from all the staff was unbelievable. We recommend the village tour with Peter, it was so informative and joyful! Also get as many truffles and soups, salads and avo toast! Can’t wait to comeback. The warmth and culture were amazing. – The L. Family; Bay Area, CA, USA.