(1) I think the upcoming Singita or Bisate lodges sound like they may be to a higher hard product standard than Sabyinyo where we and [MENTION=49295]KI-NRT[/MENTION] stayed at the same time. I’ll let others weigh in, but we loved Sabyinyo and its location, views, and authentic hard product and overall service—but were disappointed with the mediocre food. That being said, I’ve heard the food at Bisate was also mediocre, and I largely avoid any new properties that are too recentl opened like Singita would be. To each, their own, of course.

(2) We originally planned 2 days of gorilla treks and 1 day for the golden monkeys over our 4 nights...but were so exhausted after the 2 days of gorilla treks that for our 3rd day we skipped the golden monkeys and just relaxed and enjoyed the beautiful scenery and views (and my husband had a massage). Having 2 days of gorilla treks allowed us to see two different gorilla families in very different locations, but it was half the cost then ($750 per person per day) as it is now ($1500 per person per day). You could do as little as 2 nights but 3 might be wiser if you want to have 2 treks. We still treasure the memory of our day relaxing and enjoying the spectacular scenery.

(3) We found Kigali to be relatively dull and not particularly compelling in any way except for the Genocide Museum. Our friends did the Genocide Museum after arrival in Kigali before heading to Sabyinyo, while we did the Genocide Museum before departing from Kigali after our stay. We didn’t add any extra time therefore for Kigali itself.

I can’t comment on your other queries.

Gorilla trekking is tough and exhausting. But it’s also exhilarating and perhaps the most memorable thing we’ve ever done. Easily as exciting as safari, but even more so because you’re out in the open and only a few feet away (or even inches in my case) with these beautiful and amazing animals.