Wilderness Sabyinyo newsletter – June 2025

This June’s gorilla treks had a cinematic quality, thanks to swirling mist and the rain-soaked forest. While in previous years guests have lathered on sunscreen, this June we were handing out rain gear and swapping dust for the muddy trails. It made for some memorable moments and epic photos.

Gorillas moved quietly through the greenery, golden monkeys bounced around the branches, and guests embraced the weather with big smiles and a healthy amount of mud on their boots. The lodge became a cosy retreat in the afternoons – perfect for slow lunches, massages, garden strolls, and curling up with binoculars to spot birds fluttering through the mist.

As always, evenings brought our guests together: around the fire pit, with steaming mugs or chilled cocktails while swapping stories as the clouds teased the volcano peaks. Foggy weather, it turns out, is just another ingredient in our Sabyinyo recipe for an unforgettable stay.

June was a joyful month on the Sabyinyo Farm with two newborn lambs joining the family! Watching the healthy and playful little ones take their first steps brought smiles to everyone. They're already a hit with staff and guests alike, adding an extra dose of charm to our growing farm.

The rains also worked their magic on our fruit and vegetable gardens. Everything is thriving: crisp lettuces, tree tomatoes, fragrant herbs are all bursting with flavour. 

And let’s not forget the flower garden this month, it truly came into its own. Bright blossoms are flourishing around every corner, with vivid colours and heady scents turning every stroll into a sensory delight. Bees are buzzing in the blooms, and it’s safe to say June made the garden sing.

While the rain might have surprised some of our guests, we were thrilled for our forest and reforestation efforts.

Thanks to the softer, well-watered soil, June allowed us to plant even more native trees than usual. The earth was perfect for digging, and saplings quickly took root thanks to the steady supply of natural hydration. Many of the young trees we planted earlier in the year have sprung up strong and straight, reaching towards the sky with a little help from Mother Nature’s watering can.

Every tree planted is part of a bigger story: restoring habitats, protecting biodiversity, and supporting long-term conservation. And this month, the weather gave our sustainability work a beautiful boost.

The Sabyinyo team handled the changing weather like seasoned pros, from our Back-of-House team adjusting the trails to match the current weather, to our chefs leaning into hearty, comforting dishes, every part of the guest experience was touched by creativity, flexibility, and care.

Housekeepers kept muddy boots outside and cosy comforts inside, while our Front-of-House team stayed one step ahead of the clouds with warm towels, tea, and the occasional surprise cocktail to match the mood of the mist. And the garden team? Over the moon. The rain gave our herbs and veggies a serious growth spurt, making for delicious flavours and happy chefs.

So yes, this June was different, with  moodier skies, gentler light, and a forest bristling with life and gratitude. It reminded us that adventure isn’t always about clear views and sunny hikes. Sometimes, it’s about embracing the rain, nurturing the earth, and finding warmth in shared stories, dripping leaves, and quiet joy.

Thank you for a very lovely stay. We felt very welcome and truly enjoyed the cosy atmosphere! excellent lodge and a wonderful staff!

M &H USA

Thank you for a most wonderful time at your special place. I loved my hot water bottles, the staff, the food, and the fabulous setting!

J & K, USA

Sabyinyo is the most magical place on earth. The staff is wonderful and we look forward to returning with the rest of the family.

M & K, USA

What a special place this is! Everyone here is so warm and welcoming. The property is storming and the food delicious. Thank you for an incredible trip and for teaching us Igisoro.

F & J, USA

Thank you for the unbelievable experience. Your hospitality was beyond compare. We will always think of all of you.

B & S, USA