Mount Sabyinyo Hiking Tours: Mount Sabyinyo is another of the Virunga Mountains that may be found in all three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Mount Gahinga is a popular tourist destination in Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is famed for being home to one mountain gorilla family, which includes some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas. The national park is also an excellent mountaineering destination, as it has a lot of volcanoes.
The Mgahinga gorilla national park in Uganda is not only a volcanic base or mountain gorilla habitat, but it is also a birder’s paradise due to its popularity among forest high altitude bird species. Mount Sabyinyo is located at the crossroads of three adjacent countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Hiking Tours to Mount Sabyinyo
Mount Sabyinyo may be found and viewed in three countries, however the most popular trek is from the Ugandan side. Mount Sabyinyo, the oldest of the Virunga ranges, is today an inactive volcanic peak. Mount Sabyinyo is located north-east of the famed Lake Kivu and west of Lake Bunyonyi, both of which provide a wonderful view from the summit.
Mount Sabyinyo is also the only volcano that is located in two additional mountain gorilla habitats outside the Mgahinga gorilla national park, namely the Volcanoes national park of Rwanda and the Virunga national park of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, however it can only be accessible from Rwanda.
The climb to Mount Sabyinyo leads travelers to the top, which is elevated at a height of 3,669 meters above sea level, or around 12,037 feet, so be psychologically prepared for these heights. Guests suffering from altitude sickness should avoid taking this climb or bring their medications with them. Mount Sabyinyo has the physical aspect of a craggy old man’s teeth, thus the name “Sabyinyo,” which means “old man’s teeth” in the local dialect spoken in the region.
The first peak of Mount Sabyinyo lies at an elevation of 3,423 meters on the Ugandan side, and you will pass by it on your way to the summit. This is a one-day exercise that is both full and fascinating. The slopes of Mount Sabyinyo are famed for their mountain gorillas, but a climb up this volcano does not ensure you will encounter these gentle giants. If you want to take on the bottom portion of the climb, you will need to pay for the mountain gorilla permit for the Ugandan side, which costs 700 USD.
Without doubt, reaching the summit of Mount Sabyinyo is a difficult task that requires physical fitness. The journey to the top of the volcano often takes 7 to 10 hours upwards and back again, which is why this is an early morning excursion. Mount Sabyinyo contains three summits, the highest of which is 3,699 meters high and can be found in all three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
When you reach the summit of Mount Sabyinyo, you can see all three nations in the distance, making the climb much more satisfying. The route uphill is 8 km long and fairly vertical in both directions. You should be aware that this is a strenuous trek, and you will undoubtedly bear witness to this when you embark on it.
Porters are available to assist you with your baggage and provide moral support, but it is still recommended that you pack light and only what is required, since luggage may slow you down or tire you out. A hiking permit to the peak of Mount Sabyinyo costs $80 USD with park admission, and this activity is normally signaled off by a briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger guides at 8 a.m. You are escorted by an armed ranger guide who is trained to scare off animals along the road and secure the safety of the guests.
The climb up Mount Sabyinyo is also an excellent opportunity to go birding, and on a good day, travelers can observe the Rwenzori Turaco, an endemic bird of the area. The excitement of being in the home of mountain gorillas adds to the allure of this journey. Enjoy the alpine woodland on the mountain, as well as the challenging handmade wooden ladders whose solidity will amaze you.
Are you interested in trekking a volcano, Mount Sabyinyo being one of the most rewarding? Get in contact with us and we’ll help you schedule this activity for your wildlife safari to Uganda.
