Volcanoes National Park Holidays

The nature walk at Wilderness Sabyinyo is a meditative experience that will help you reconnect with Mother Earth. One of the in-house ornithologists will guide you on the hour-long walk, pointing out some of the 50 different species of birds that live here. The trail winds through the 31-acre grounds and along the way, you’ll learn about the native flora, explore the farm and have the chance to spot wildlife.

The trail begins in the beautiful flower garden and this leads to a trail that meanders through eucalyptus woods. There are plans to start harvesting the leaves to make essential oils and candles, a process to teach local farmers so they’re able to make and export eucalyptus products. They’re also re-wilding this area by planting indigenous trees so that the property merges seamlessly with Volcanoes National Park when they expand their boundaries over the next few years.

You’ll pass the barn, which is home to the artist-in-residency programme, and the large reservoir that is being turned into an eco-friendly aquaponics area. Next, head through the colourful wildflower forest to the vegetable garden. Meet the chickens and sheep - described as their sustainable lawnmowers.

A highlight of the nature walk is the bamboo forest, which leads to a lava cave that was formed over 2.5 million years ago when the neighbouring volcano Mount Sabyinyo erupted; it has amazing white fluorescent algae growing on top. Be sure to spend some time sitting on the meditation bench beside the stream which irrigates the tea plantation. If you’re lucky, you may spot golden monkeys jumping through the trees.