The Greater Virunga Transboundary Collaboration (GVTC) is delighted to announce the successful rehabilitation and reopening of the iconic Sabyinyo Hiking Trail (Piste Sabyinyo) in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, restoring one of the region's most unique and scenic tourism experiences.
Following years of deterioration caused by erosion, landslides, vegetation overgrowth, and damaged infrastructure, the trail is once again welcoming visitors — marking a significant achievement for conservation and sustainable tourism across the Greater Virunga Landscape.
A Collaborative Rehabilitation Effort
The rehabilitation was undertaken under the Transboundary Ecosystem Management of the Greater Virunga Landscape for Sustainable Development (TEMS) Project, with financial support from the European Union. The project was implemented by GVTC in close collaboration with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), Volcanoes National Park management, and contractor Deno Metal Design Ltd.
Key Improvements
The project delivered comprehensive improvements to enhance visitor safety and restore trail functionality, including:
- Stabilization of landslide-prone sections
- Relocation of unsafe trail segments
- Improved wetland crossings
- Rehabilitation of the Hut Camp facility
- Enhancement of lookout areas
- Vegetation clearing
- Installation of critical safety infrastructure
These measures have significantly improved accessibility while ensuring minimal impact on the park's sensitive ecosystem. Safety infrastructure was put in place to protect hikers, while thoughtful design choices ensured the experience remains memorable for every visitor.
Where Conservation Meets Tourism
Beyond improving the visitor experience, the rehabilitation demonstrates how conservation and tourism development can go hand in hand. Innovative approaches — including conservation-friendly trail design and the use of environmentally appropriate materials — ensured that wildlife movement and habitat protection remained a priority throughout implementation. The project strengthens the long-term sustainability of one of Rwanda's most important nature-based tourism attractions, and the Sabyinyo Volcano overlook point is now once again accessible to hikers.
A Testament to Partnership
“GVTC extends its sincere appreciation to all partners who contributed to this achievement. We are especially grateful to the European Union for its financial support through the TEMS Project; the Rwanda Development Board and Volcanoes National Park management for their technical leadership and oversight; Deno Metal Design Ltd for successfully implementing the rehabilitation works; and the dedicated park rangers and field teams whose support and commitment were instrumental throughout the project.
“The reopening of the Sabyinyo Trail is more than the restoration of a hiking route — it is a testament to the power of partnership, shared conservation goals, and a collective commitment to sustainable tourism.”
— Dr. Andrew G. Seguya, Executive Secretary, Greater Virunga Transboundary Collaboration
Looking Ahead
As hikers once again explore this remarkable trail, GVTC and its partners remain committed to maintaining its safety, ecological integrity, and tourism value for future generations. The successful rehabilitation not only revitalizes an important tourism asset but also reinforces the role of conservation as a foundation for sustainable development across the Greater Virunga Landscape.
