Mount Sabyinyo is a dormant volcano located in Uganda, in the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is known for its mountain gorillas and Virunga Mountains.
Mount Sabyinyo is a dormant volcano in Uganda, East Africa. It is found in the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, known for its mountain gorillas and Virunga mountains.
Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Rwanda all share a border with the Mount Sabyinyo volcano.
Thus, it’s included in three national parks: the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda (Rwanda), and the Mgahinga Gorilla Park in Uganda (Uganda).
However, travellers can only access the peak from Uganda.
The name Sabyinyo means “teeth” in Japanese. Indeed, the volcano has been dubbed “old man’s tooth” because of its craggy appearance.
What you can do at Mount Sabyinyo in Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mountain gorillas, which are at grave risk of extinction, call the volcano’s slopes home.
This is also a spot where you can observe them, but you’ll have to pay a considerably higher permit cost to get there.
Approximately $520 more.
Mount Sabyinyo hiking trail
Getting to the top of the volcano is a gruelling experience, but it’s worth it. If you want to make the return trip in a reasonable amount of time, you’ll need to leave early.
Three peaks can be found on the mountain known as Mt. Sabyinyo. There are two peaks, with the highest at 3,669 metres and the first at 3421 metres in altitude.
Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo share a boundary at the top of the mountain. As a result, on a single trip, hikers can see all three countries.
In certain places, the 8-mile out-and-back trail is nearly steep. According to the locals, it is quite difficult. Altitude has to be taken into account at all times.
For those who aren’t used to that, it can be difficult to maintain a steady supply of oxygen and energy. Another obstacle is the unsteady ladders that you must traverse.
Hiking at Mount Sabyinyo
Hiking the mountain costs between $50 and $80. The hike usually begins at 8 a.m. sharp at the Park’s base. This is where you’ll find an armed guard, a guide, and an orientation from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
Since there is turmoil in the border area and wild animals, an armed guide is a need.
Also, you may come across a herd of buffaloes in the woods nearby. No need to fear because your tour guide will be there to protect you and also scare them away.
The peak is chilly, so bring a warm jacket. It’s also possible to have altitude sickness while climbing Mount Sabyinyo.
Mount Sabinyo’s top can only be accessed via a series of wooden ladders tacked into the rock.
Also, the fear of heights can make it difficult to climb up the ladders on steep areas of the mountain, but you can distract yourself by concentrating on the peak instead of gazing down too much.
Checklist for things to pack on your hiking journey
The following are some helpful items to have with you on your Mount Sabyinyo hike Uganda;
- Sunglasses
Protecting your eyes is a must.
- A water bottle
Fill the little reusable bottle with water from larger water bottles to reduce the amount of plastic waste. If you want to keep your drink hot or cold for an extended period, choose insulated bottles.
- A waterproof jacket
The rainforest is frequently damp, so it’s a good idea to have rain gear with you.
- Suncream
You’re in Africa, where the sun is fierce, so you’ll need sunscreen. Every time you leave the house, you should apply this sun cream on your face and body because it provides excellent UVA/UVB protection while also being gentle enough for my daughter’s sensitive skin.
- A camera and binoculars
You would want to capture all these amazing experiences and more. An excellent tool for observing distant volcanoes and stunning landscapes is a pair of binoculars.
- Hiking shoes
Investing in a good pair of hiking boots is a must to protect your feet as you walk and also give you great balance.
Breath-taking scenery, volcanoes and the ladders
In addition to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes, you’ll also encounter a variety of strange plants and animals as you make your trip.
It’s possible to observe the Rwenzori turaco if you’re lucky, an indigenous bird of the area.
Then there’s the fact that mountain gorillas, a critically endangered species, could be hiding somewhere in this jungle.
On this hike, you’ll see some uncommon and lovely scenery. Every step you take in the alpine forest is surrounded by tropical vegetation.
The Mount Sabyinyo walk is also notable for the homemade wooden ladders that have been erected along the way to assist with the ascent.
The trail is difficult, but the ladders are designed to make it a little less difficult in those spots. Even if they were solid, walking on them would be an adventure in and of themselves because of the uncertainty of their stability.
The sense of accomplishment and the beautiful views from the top help to alleviate any difficulties.
Hopefully, this information is helpful to anyone that’s been planning for the Mount Sabyinyo hike in Uganda.
Budget-conscious visitors to Mgahinga National Park can stay in the park’s community-owned campsite, which is located near the park’s entrance.
Camping costs around $6, although dorms can also be rented for a reasonable fee.
If you are looking for a complete Uganda travel experience, we also recommend checking out our guide to Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, Kidepo Valley National Park, Kibale National Park, Lake Mburo National Park and Semuliki National Park.
