Mount Sabinyo hiking tour in Uganda

Hiking Mount Sabinyo from the Uganda side

Climbing Mount Sabinyo in Uganda begins with registering at the park office, signing the guest book, and settling any necessary payments. The hike commences with a briefing from the Guide and Rangers, who will provide information on what to expect, the mountain’s history, and essential items to bring along. If you do not reach the summit by 3 pm, it is recommended to descend as completing the activity on time would be challenging. Each hiker is equipped with a walking stick, which is highly valuable during the climb. Porters are available for hire for those carrying heavy equipment like cameras. A team of at least three locals, including an armed ranger, will accompany you to ward off large mammals such as elephants that roam the mountain’s slopes.

Climbing to the summit of Mount Sabinyo offers a unique experience as you can simultaneously be in three different countries – Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. The breathtaking views from the top, weather permitting include the stunning Lake Kivu in Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda, the Rwenzori Mountain ranges, the Virunga region, and various other natural features. Human settlements can be spotted among lush green plantations and forests. Rwanda appears more densely populated compared to the relatively deserted Congo. The descent, although easier, presents its challenges, especially navigating the ladders again, particularly in unfavorable weather conditions.

Activities Mount Sabinyo

Located in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park on the Uganda side, Mount Sabinyo is a captivating destination. Despite being the smallest national park in Uganda, it offers an array of incredible activities for tourists to indulge in. Once you have conquered the mountain and taken ample rest, there are further options to explore.

Hiking Mount Sabinyo

The Sabinyo volcano hiking expedition occurs within the boundaries of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Kisoro, Uganda. Mount Sabinyo is among the eight volcanoes that form the Virunga ranges in East and Central Africa. The hike up Mount Sabinyo is a popular tourist attraction, highly regarded alongside mountain gorilla tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Additionally, the Virunga massif on the Ugandan side includes two other volcanoes, namely Mount Muhabura and Mount Gahinga.

The rough terrain of Sabinyo’s slopes, characterized by numerous craters and sharp ridges, makes it impossible to trek in the neighboring countries, except for Uganda. In Uganda, a challenging yet safe trail has been established, complete with handmade ladders to aid climbers on steep sections. Unlike Karisimbi, which takes 2 days to climb, Mt. Sabinyo is a one-day hike with an 8-hour round trek. The ascent to the summit takes 4 hours, with the descent also taking 4 hours, depending on factors such as pace and weather conditions.

The hiking expedition commences from the park office following a briefing by the ranger guide. Walking sticks are provided free of charge, while porters are available for hire.