Located in north-west Rwanda, in the Parc National Des Volcano, built and run by Governor’s Camp (see Journeys by Design Kenya accommodation), and owned by the Rwandanese community trust, SACOLA, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is a first rate lodge.
Set in landscaped gardens, with stunning views of the Virunga, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is a stone and tile build, and consists of a main lodge and 8 sleeping rooms. The main lodge, with mustard coloured walls, large Mediterranean style tiling and beautiful windows, is low and beautifully designed. Fixed to the walls, looking out over the slopes, are giant sized masks, which as bizarre at it may sound adds a real sense of mystery to the experience. Inside, and characterized by beautifully maintained wooden floors, white walls, low slatted ceilings, a mix of slumber seating, open log fires and African prints, the shared areas include a bar, library, games room, verandah, dining room and seating areas.
With room for between 16 and 20 guests, the sleeping accommodation is divided into 3 types: cottage (5), suite (2) and a family cottage. Well spaced, and similar in build to the main lodge, each – irrespective of individual idiosyncrasies – includes 2 private verandas, a separate bathroom and sitting rooms with fireplaces. The rooms come well equipped with large / twin beds, room to dress in, and the family cottage has an extra bedroom and bathroom. While it is difficult to do justice to every room, the overall design of Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is simple, restrained, and the bathrooms – twin sinks, flush toilet, large tub, and shower – luxurious.
The lodge is only minutes away from the park’s headquarters, from where clients trek on foot to see the gorilla, so activities are pretty much centered around trekking, but the area is also excellent for its birds, although the abundance of greenery etc. demands patience and a steady pair of binoculars.