Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Singita Kwitonda Lodge is located on a 178-acre piece of land right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park. The latter is home to more than one third of the remaining mountain gorillas in the world. With magnificent views of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura volcanoes, and surrounded by high-altitude forests, Singita Kwitonda Lodge offers eight contemporary suites (7 one-bedroom suites and 1 two-bedroom suite), as well as a private four-bedroom villa – Kataza House, which are linked by volcanic rock pathways to the central lodge.
The interiors emphasise local design and handcrafted details adorn the carefully planned spaces. Layered textures and colours enhance the reflective quality of this tranquil haven and an experiential enclave offers free-flowing indoor and outdoor areas. A convivial fire pit, interactive kitchen, bar-deli and wine cellar complete the picture. Luxurious en-suite accommodation includes breakfast, lunch and dinner daily and very good Wi-Fi connection at the lodge.
Why we like it here
The lodge is ideally located to discover the rest of Rwanda’s offerings – from the sights and sounds of the vibrant capital, Kigali, to Nyungwe National Park with its suspended canopy walk.
Guests are enveloped in a contemplative, nurturing space in which to appreciate the transformative experience of coming face-to-face with the forest’s gentle giants.
There is a dedicated conservation lounge for pre- and post-gorilla-trekking briefings, as well as information talks, maps, movies, books and photography.
It was built using locally-sourced and produced materials for walling, ceilings and surface finishing.
The local community has been engaged in building traditional dry-stone walling on-site for specialist areas within the landscape. Fundamental to the design, was treading lightly on the land and sustainability is at the core of the construction project.
Private heated pools outside every suite.
Enjoy in-room spa treatments.
Each suite has an iPad and media suite.
From the lodge you can set off on the Dian Fossey Trek at the original Karisoke site: a two-hour hike to her gravesite, house and research site.
Things to be aware of
There is a minimum stay required of two nights, year-round.
Children of all ages are welcome, but it must be remembered that as children under the age of 15 are unable to participate in gorilla-treks, they will be cared for at the lodge with a variety of supervised activities and educational opportunities on offer.
International flights arrive at Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali. From there, Singita Kwitonda Lodge is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by road.