Wilderness Sabyinyo newsletter – September/October 2025

September brought the kind of misty mornings and rain-kissed trails that turn every gorilla trek into a full-on adventure. Yes, it’s muddy, but it’s the kind of mud that tells a story. The kind that clings to your boots like a badge of honour and reminds you that you’ve just walked in the jungle of the gentle giants.

Our guests have been absolute troopers, lacing up, layering on, and heading out into the forest with a unique blend of curiosity and courage. And the reward? Unforgettable close-up encounters with Rwanda’s mountain gorillas, framed by swirling mist and emerald foliage. It’s been nothing short of magical.

Another exciting surprise? The UCI Road World Cycling Championship was hosted for the first time in Africa, in our capital city, Kigali! While it did mean a few tweaks to arrival and departure plans to accommodate extra traffic, alternative routes, and a little schedule juggling, it also meant that some of our guests had front-row seats to world-class cycling action in the heart of Rwanda. The atmosphere in the city was electric, and those who experienced it came back absolutely buzzing from the excitement, with incredible stories and videos to share. It was a rare and thrilling bonus to an already adventure-filled trip!

September isn’t just about misty treks and muddy boots; it’s also home to one of Rwanda’s most meaningful celebrations: Kwita Izina, the annual baby gorilla naming ceremony. This year’s edition was especially grand, with a record-breaking 40 baby gorillas officially welcomed into the world, with names as unique and symbolic as the stories behind them.

And speaking of names... we couldn’t help but notice something serendipitous: one of those baby gorillas now shares a name with our own newest team member, Sugira! While our Homo sapiens Sugira has been charming guests with warm service in the restaurant, his close ‘cousin’ Gorilla beringei beringei namesake is growing up in the rainforest. Two Sugiras, two different worlds, one shared story of new beginnings and hope for the future.

The Kwita Izina celebration itself was a powerful mix of ceremony, song, and storytelling. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Kinigi, and attended by conservationists, dignitaries, artists, and local communities, Kwita Izina is more than just a naming event – it’s a living symbol of Rwanda’s deep commitment to conservation.

At Sabyinyo, we’re proud to play a role in that bigger picture. From supporting local schools and community-led initiatives to creating meaningful employment through responsible tourism, our work is deeply connected to the success of gorilla conservation. And seeing the population steadily grow from the brink of extinction to a slow but steady comeback is nothing short of extraordinary.

So, here’s to the 40 new names, the 40 new lives, and the shared responsibility we all have in protecting them.

Our farm has been a hive of activity this September! Thanks to the tireless efforts of our maintenance team, we’ve significantly expanded the farm’s footprint clearing new growing plots, enhancing our composting systems.

But perhaps the most exciting news? We welcomed a few woolly new arrivals! Our flock grew by two little lambs this month curious, bouncy, and already stealing the hearts of guests and staff alike. Watching them totter through the newly sprouted grass has become a daily highlight.

This farm isn’t just about produce; it’s about connection. From farm-to-table ingredients in our kitchen to the simple joy of watching new life thrive, it’s a reminder that sustainability and hospitality can grow side by side. 

September also marks the start of a new school year for children across Rwanda. That ‘new notebooks, sharpened pencils, and first-day nerves’ energy is in the air, and this year, Sabyinyo had the privilege of playing a small role in that journey.

Over the summer, we collected school supplies donated by generous guests, some of whom even packed an extra suitcase just for the Pack for a Purpose programme. From notebooks and pencils, to backpacks and coloured markers, the response was heartwarming. This month, we delivered the supplies to nearby schools, making sure they landed in eager little hands just in time for the new term.

Big news in the Sabyinyo family! Two of our beloved team members, Priscilla and Nadine, have spread their wings and fluttered off to the newly opened Magashi Peninsula In Akagera National Park. We're equal parts proud energy and devastated friends left behind. We’ll miss their laughs echoing down the hallways, their morning playlists, but we’re also thrilled to see them step into exciting new roles.

Our family also gained new babies, Bahati and Sugira, who joined the service team. From Day 1, they’ve brought a quiet confidence and an eagerness to learn that’s inspired all of us. Whether it’s mastering the rhythm of breakfast service or offering that extra touch of warmth in the restaurant, these two have quickly become part of the heartbeat of the lodge. We’re thrilled to watch them grow, and judging by the early feedback from guests, they’re already making a big impression.

Interestingly, we experienced noticeably less rainfall this October compared to the same period last year, creating perfect conditions for our guests to explore and enjoy the national park. Mornings at Sabyinyo were cool and clear, offering breathtaking views of Mount Sabyinyo illuminated by the soft glow of sunrise. From the lodge, guests could admire Karisimbi, Bisoke, and Mikeno reflecting the golden hues of dawn – a truly magical start to the day. Evenings were equally captivating, with clouds drifting over the Virunga range and sunset painting the sky with beautiful colours.

The trails were not completely dry, but much less muddy and wet than usual, making park activities less challenging, more enjoyable, and slightly shorter. This allowed our guests to spend more time enjoying the comfort and charm of the lodge, taking part in activities such as village walks, nature trails, and garden tours. On some days, gentle rain arrived in the late afternoons, creating a cosy and peaceful ambience. Couples enjoyed the warmth of their private fireplaces in their cottages, while families gathered around the main lounge fireplace playing games such as Igisoro, chess, and cards. This balance of pleasant weather, breathtaking views, and relaxing lodge experiences created a truly memorable October at Sabyinyo – one filled with warmth, laughter, and the magic of the Virungas.

At Wilderness Sabyinyo, our commitment to protecting the environment goes hand in hand with supporting the surrounding communities. This October, in partnership with SACOLA (the Sabyinyo Community Livelihood Association that actually owns the lodge), we planted nearly 17,000 indigenous trees and shrubs across the Sabyinyo property – a major milestone in our ongoing reforestation journey. After the careful harvesting of non-native eucalyptus trees, we took this opportunity to restore the land with indigenous species for our ecosystem. We first embarked on this initiative three and a half years ago, and today we are proud to celebrate having planted over 50,000 trees in total.

These species were thoughtfully selected to revive the natural balance of our ecosystem – enriching the soil, improving water retention, and diversifying the habitat for wildlife. The project also provided meaningful work for local community members, reinforcing our long-standing collaboration with SACOLA and our shared vision of conservation-led development. Each new tree planted is a step toward returning Sabyinyo’s landscape to its natural state, where indigenous flora can thrive once again alongside the incredible wildlife that calls this place home. This effort stands as a living testament to what can be achieved when community and conservation grow together.

October has been a remarkable month for wildlife seen at Sabyinyo, reflecting the success of our ongoing conservation and reforestation efforts. Our security team observed Cape buffalos grazing on the property at night, while guests spotted signs of their presence along the lodge trails. Bushbuck (locally known as Impongo) and jackals were seen more frequently than in past months, while golden monkeys remained a consistent delight with their playful activity among the trees. 

Fidel Niyonzima, our head farmer in charge of reforestation, shared how the hartebeest and bushbuck sometimes nibble on newly planted trees. While initially concerning, this is a natural part of reforestation – a sign that the wildlife is thriving and the ecosystem is beginning to restore itself.

These observations are more than just sightings; they are a testament to the harmony between nature and our efforts. Witnessing wildlife flourish on our Sabyinyo property is a shared success that inspires our guests, team, and community, and reminds us of the incredible impact of nurturing and protecting our environment.

Absolutely amazing days. Thank you for taking such good care of us, and all that you give back to the community.
MR, California (USA)

Our stay at Sabyinyo was truly magic. I love your saying “come as a friend, leave as family”. The genuine warmth, care of every single staff member is something I won’t forget. Thank you for everything! can’t wait to come back!
DS, Canada

What an incredible experience we have had beginning with the lodge and all your staff and the magical gorillas and their history. Please take care of them.
IS, Atlanta (USA)

Beyond our wildest imagination thank you for the most incredible start to our honeymoon. We will be dreaming of this place forever or until we come back! Thank you, thank you, thank you.
P & D, New Jersey (USA)

An absolutely delightful second visit to the lodge. The staff here always makes me feel at home & happy! The food & the lodge itself are great. Thank you.
JF – Dallas, Texas (USA)