Introduction
Mountain Sabyinyo is one of the Virunga mountain ranges. It’s an extinct volcano located in southwestern Uganda in Kisoro. It is along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. Sabyinyo is a local Rufumbira dialect meaning old man’s teeth. The locals named it so because of its rugged appearance on the top summit. Its highest peak stands at 3669 meters above sea level and hiking to the top takes about 4 hours. This mountain is shared by three parks Virunga National Park in DRC, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda however the biggest part is in Uganda. Hiking Mount Sabyinyo in uganda is one special experience to have on your travel itinerary
The mountain has thick forest vegetation that provides a home to different wildlife species. You can trace Albertine endemic birds, mountain gorillas, and golden monkeys while hiking Sabyinyo. Mount Sabyinyo, shared with Mgahinga National Park. It is also well-known for hosting mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and a variety of bird species. This has attracted many tourists to engage in hiking this mountain. However, other travelers hike Mount Sabyinyo to have a spectacular view of the crater on the mountain peak. While you are at this peak you will be standing in three countries Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The craters on the peak give a magical breathtaking view accompanied by the thick vegetation, the flowers, and the wildlife, thus making it a complete package for travelers.
Hiking Mount Sabyinyo always starts with a briefing at the park headquarters in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park at 7 am. It is here that you are assigned a ranger guide, and porters, given a hiking stick, and then head for the Kisoro trail. This hike takes about 8-9 hours depending on the hiking speed and experience. Upon reaching the top of Mount Sabyinyo, enjoy the natural breeze and amazing scenic views of the mountain as you capture every moment.
Hiking Mountain Sabyinyo in uganda can sometimes be very cumbersome due to the rainy season which makes the trails very slippery. It is tough for the hikers to hit the top sometimes because of the weather. However, hiking Mount Sabyinyo is enjoyable in the dry season from June to September and December to February. This is when the trails are dry and passable, enabling the hikers to reach their desired height. The temperatures are always very cold at the summit and hikers spend less than an hour at the top before the coldness forces them to descend soon.
What to consider before hiking Mount Sabyinyo?
When planning a hike to Mount Sabyinyo, it is important to equip yourself with essential items to use while on the hike. These include hiking boots, a long-sleeved sweater shirt, a rain jacket, light pants, gloves. Insect repellent gel, reusable water bottles, energy-giving snacks also come in handy. You however need to be physically and mentally fit to hike sucessfuly.
How much is Hiking Mount Sabyinyo?
You can hike Mount Sabyinyo all year round, but it is more enjoyable during the dry season. This is when the trails are dry and passable and the temperatures are more conducive making it easy for the hikers to navigate. The hiking permits for Mount Sabyinyo goes to USD 85 per person. They are acquired from Mgahinga at the park’s headquarters through a local registered tour operator. It is always important to book at least 2-4 days in advance. This helps the park to make proper arrangements for your trip.