Mount Sabinyo
Mount Sabinyo is the oldest volcano of the range. It is an extinct volcano in eastern Africa in the Virunga Mountains. It is north-east of Lake Kivu, one of the Africa Great Lakes, and west of Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda.
This mount derived its name from the Kinyarwanda word “Iryinyo”, which means tooth. The mountain carries a local nickname “Old Man’s Teeth,” because of its serrated summit resembles worn teeth in a gum line.
The summit of the mountain, at 3,669 metres (12,037 ft), marks the intersection of the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, and Uganda, and holds religious significance to local tribes.
A dormant volcano, Mt Sabinyo is one of the numerous rolling volcanoes that make up the magnificent Virunga mountain range that spans along the borders of Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
It is within the adjoining national parks established by these countries. Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, Virunga National Park in DRC and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. The slopes of Mt Sabyinyo are a habitat for the critically endangered mountain gorillas.
This mountain has three peaks. One of the best mountain hikes within Mgahinga National Park is that to the peaks of mount Sabinyo, with the most interesting hike being to the third peak shared by three countries (Uganda, Rwanda and DRC). The feeling of being within the borders of three countries is immensurable. The view is so beautiful and worth the hike. In this area weather in this area is unpredictable so one should wear proper hiking clothes.
Briefing begins at 7.00am in the Park and you begin hiking at 7.30am. You will be escorted by a ranger and walking sticks are for free. Mt. Sabinyo is a one day hike and the round trek is 8 hours, 4 hours to the summit and 4 hours back. This depends on your pace, fitness and weather.
As you hike, you might get a chance of seeing golden monkeys. Similarly other big wildlife in the park include Buffaloes, Elephants and Gorillas but are rarely seen on the trail. In addition it is also territory of the famous Rwenzori Turaco, a stunning bird which is also endemic to the Albertine rift region. In case you reach somewhere and cannot continue with the hike, there is always a guide to escort you back to the park entrance but it is a good feeling when one reaches all the peaks.
The locals are very social and will welcome you. The place has the coolest weather condition have ever seen. Hikers should carry extra jackets for the weather keeps changing and it is very cold at night. One has to sleep with a warm hot water bottle to keep warm. It is a unique experience and this place is a must visit for everyone. Ganyana Safaris has experienced professional guides/drivers to take you to this amazing Safari in Kisoro.
