Background and Lodge Mission

Singita Kwitonda Lodge forms part of the renowned Singita portfolio, a brand globally respected for conservation-led luxury tourism. The lodge was established to protect critical gorilla habitat while creating economic value through low-impact, high-quality tourism. Its mission focuses on preserving biodiversity, empowering local communities, and setting global standards for sustainable luxury in Africa’s most sensitive ecosystems.

Location and Accessibility

The lodge sits immediately adjacent to Volcanoes National Park, making it one of the closest accommodations to gorilla trekking start points. This prime location allows guests to minimize early-morning travel and maximize rest before treks. Singita Kwitonda Lodge is approximately a 2.5-hour scenic drive from Kigali International Airport. Helicopter transfers and private luxury road transfers can be arranged for seamless access.

Accommodation Style and Comfort

Accommodation at Singita Kwitonda Lodge consists of spacious private suites and a secluded villa, each designed with organic forms, volcanic stone, and handcrafted Rwandan elements. Floor-to-ceiling windows, private heated plunge pools, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and expansive decks create a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape. Interiors balance modern elegance with natural textures, offering exceptional comfort, privacy, and warmth in the cool highland climate.

Dining Experience

Dining at Singita Kwitonda Lodge is refined, creative, and deeply connected to local produce. Menus are crafted using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from Singita’s own gardens and local farms. Meals are tailored to guest preferences and activity schedules, with options for private dining in suites, communal lodge dining, or fireside meals. A curated wine cellar and knowledgeable sommeliers elevate the overall culinary experience.

Activities at or Around the Lodge

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking is the lodge’s signature experience. Guests enjoy early access to park briefings and short transfer times to trekking points. Treks vary in difficulty, but each culminates in a powerful one-hour encounter with a habituated mountain gorilla family under expert ranger guidance.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkey tracking offers a lighter primate experience within the bamboo forests of the park. These energetic and endangered monkeys provide dynamic photographic opportunities and an engaging contrast to gorilla trekking.

Volcano Hiking Adventures

Guided hikes on the Virunga volcanoes, including Mount Bisoke and Mount Muhabura, allow guests to explore crater lakes, alpine vegetation, and panoramic viewpoints. These hikes suit active travelers seeking both challenge and dramatic scenery.

Conservation Experiences

Singita Kwitonda Lodge offers behind-the-scenes insights into conservation initiatives, including habitat restoration and anti-poaching efforts. Guests can learn how tourism directly supports long-term protection of mountain gorillas and their ecosystem.

Wellness and Relaxation

After trekking, guests can unwind with in-suite spa treatments, yoga sessions, or quiet time by the fireplace. The lodge’s tranquil setting encourages deep rest and reflection.

Services at the Lodge

Service at Singita Kwitonda Lodge is seamless, intuitive, and highly personalized. Every detail is managed to ensure guests focus fully on their experience while enjoying exceptional comfort.

Services offered include:

Dedicated host and concierge services

Gorilla permit and activity coordination

Private airport and park transfers

Butler-style in-suite service

Daily laundry and housekeeping

In-suite spa and wellness treatments

Curated wine cellar and sommelier service

Complimentary Wi-Fi and charging facilities

24-hour security and medical support coordination

Conservation and Social Impact

Singita Kwitonda Lodge plays a critical role in conservation by funding habitat restoration, supporting park protection, and investing in community development. The lodge employs and trains local staff, sources materials locally, and reinvests tourism revenue into education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihoods. Its low-density design ensures minimal environmental impact while delivering maximum conservation benefit.

Who Should Stay at the Lodge

Singita Kwitonda Lodge is ideal for ultra-luxury travelers, conservation-focused guests, honeymooners, and once-in-a-lifetime safari seekers. It suits those who value privacy, exceptional design, personalized service, and meaningful conservation impact alongside their gorilla trekking experience.

Planning Your Stay

Stays at Singita Kwitonda Lodge should be booked well in advance due to limited availability and high demand. Gorilla permits must be secured early, especially during peak seasons. Guests should pack warm layers for cool mornings and evenings. The lodge pairs well with a broader Rwanda itinerary, including Kigali city experiences, Nyungwe Forest, or Lake Kivu, creating a complete luxury safari journey.