Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Rwanda

epic for all ages

For when your family is a mix of ages or you’re just looking for a destination that ticks all the boxes…these hotels and resorts know a thing or two about family-friendly travel.

the Low Down

Situated in East Africa, surrounded by majestic volcanoes fittingly named ‘The Land of a thousand hills’, lies Kwitonda Lodge. With the nurturing surroundings in mind, the Lodges are designed to reflect the green backdrop in which they share with one third of the worlds remaining mountain gorilla population. Featuring eight contemporary suites with splashes of the local African charm embedded within, when you’re not exploring the unspoilt Rwandan forests, you may wish to unwind by the firepit, drinking a carefully selected South African red acquired from the private wine cellar. You will be spoilt for choice with what Rwanda has to offer including the caves of Musanze, now a wonderful place of peace but was once formerly used for shelter during the war.

the Peaks Promise

Each booking will receive a complimentary safari.

The Best Room For You

  • Trek with Rwanda’s gentle gorilla giants.
  • Immerse yourself in the jungle like Tarzan and Jane by encountering the Golden monkey’s which will often far outnumber you.
  • Hike to the resting place of Dian Fossey where she lies next to her most beloved gorilla friend, Digit.
  • Climb to the peak of Mount Bisoke which last erupted in 1957. At the top you will find a perfectly formed crater that has transformed into a lake with breath-taking views for miles.
  • Visit the resident bats that fill the underground caverns of Musanze, the same caves which were also used by locals to seek refuge during the war.
  • Get a glimpse of how the locals live by interacting with the crafters and weevers of Gasura village just 30 minutes from the Lodge.
  • The Akarabo Nursery which translates to ‘little flower’, houses 250,000 saplings which were planted as part of Singita’s initiative to restore the balance of nature and build a lasting legacy.
  • Expand your wine knowledge with world-class wine tastings from the in-house sommeliers.
  • Accommodation:
    There are 7 one-bedroom suites which all feature a 270 degree view of the surrounding volcanoes. With the floor to ceiling style windows, you will feel immersed in nature. There is a 2 two-bedroom suite which is more suited for families or couples who will need the extra space. All suites are inclusive of a private heated plunge pool, indoor and outdoor showers, in-room massage area (a massage table is permanently set up in the bathroom area), indoor gas and outdoor wood fireplace.
  • Location:
    Located in East Africa, Rwanda, a small but rich country in terms of the beautiful sights and experiences you can have there. The Lodge is located in the northwestern part and lies in the foothills of the Volcanoes National Park.
  • Getting there:
    International flights arrive at Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali. From there, Singita Kwitonda Lodge is approximately two and a half hours by road. Alternatively, helicopter transfers are available from Kigali to the lodge.
  • Restaurants:
    Wholesome, homegrown ingredients from the chef-to-table garden which can be curated into healthy menu options.
  • What to pack:
    Wear what you feel most comfortable in as no formal wear is required at any of Singita’s lodges as the atmosphere is homely and comfortable. Cotton clothing in neutral colours is advisable for outdoor walks and cycling. It’s also best to avoid white and dark colours as they tend to attract bugs. For the hiking and other outdoor activities, waterproof hiking boots with a good grip and ankle support are essential to bring with you. Along with hiking chaps, gloves, a waterproof jacket/raincoat, hiking pants, thick socks to protect you against stinging nettles, gloves and long-sleeved tops. Bear in mind if you do forget something there is a gear room located in the main lodge where you may borrow from.
  • Signature Activities:
    The gorilla trekking is at the top of the to do list for most that stay at Kwitonda. Spending time trekking and sitting with these majestic animals in their natural habitats will be a lifechanging experience. The daily hikes are led by expert guides and once you return to the House a refreshing beverage will be waiting for you. The cultural village tours will give you the chance to meet the local community and experience some of their ancient rituals. Your senses will go on a journey from the vibrant displays and sounds of traditional dancing to the taste and smell of brewed banana beer. Conservation is a concept that runs deep within Singita, a dedicated-on site conservation room is a place where you will learn the inspiring past of Dian Fossey. .
  • Rates are quoted in United States Dollars (USD), inclusive of Value Added Tax (VAT) at 18%, and are subject to change.
  • Terms of booking:

    A minimum stay of 2 nights is required. Please note that guests are required to book and pay for a Driver Guide and vehicle for every day of their stay at Singita Volcanoes National Park to facilitate all activities as well as transfers to and from Kigali. Having a Driver Guide and vehicle ensures flexibility so that guests can plan their days according to preference.
  • As the minimum age requirement for gorilla trekking is 15, the lodge offers dedicated childminders who are able to tailor activities to suit each family.

  • There is an onsite child minder who can take care of your little ones and equally open their eyes to the beauty of Africa whilst you’re gorilla trekking or doing other activities in the national park.
  • The children will be able to explore the Akarobo nursery and get stuck in by picking vegetables and planting new saplings.
  • They can also become little chefs for the day and whip up some mini dishes carefully supervised by the expertly trained chefs. Mini chef hats and aprons are provided so they can really feel the part!
  • The children can let their creativity flow with the arts and crafts corner where there is also a selection of board games and puzzles.
  • Many more activities are available to keep the children entertained such as nature walks, cycling, stargazing and watching movies.

Rainy season lasts from March to May then October to November, dry season is from June to mid-September then December to February.

Rates include:

  • Luxurious en suite accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, all drinks (including premium wines, spirits and liqueurs, but excluding French Champagne).
  • Laundry services.
  • Complimentary comfort kits containing items such as sun cream, a sweat towel, tissues, a buff (required by Rwandan parks) and brown sanitary/toilet eco bags. Guests also receive a loaned backpack containing a lunch box, snacks and a water bottle.
  • Yoga, cycling, running, walking
  • A Gear Room with items that guests can borrow for trekking

• A Conservation Room which houses a private collection of Robert Ian Martin (“Bob”) Campbell’s travel and photographic equipment. Campbell is known as the man who captured the daily life and workings of Dian Fossey and the mountain gorillas.

  • Private wine cellar
  • Private interactive kitchen
  • Generously stocked ‘bar-deli’
  • House manager, chef and house staff
  • Private entrance and turning circle
  • Golf cart for access to Singita Kwitonda Lodge (should guests wish to enjoy a meal at the main facility)
  • Heated pool off main lounge
  • Private heated pool off master suite
  • Fitness centre
  • Complimentary WiFi internet throughout
  • iPad and media suite in each room
  • Private cinema room
  • Fire pit
  • Indoor and outdoor dining and lounge areas

Covid guidelines:

Singita has adopted well informed measures in line with the latest recommendations from authorities like the WHO. Extra cleaning procedures are in place, particularly focused on high contact areas. Staff temperatures are checked daily and follow social distancing aswell as the regular use of masks. Guests travel history is cleared for preapproval and all luggage will be thoroughly sanitized. Chefs will be wearing masks at all times during the food preparation and no buffets will be held unless for private events. All lodge and hired vehicles are sanitized between tours and transfers with special attention to the door handles and binoculars. If a high temperature is recorded whether it be a member of staff or a guest, they will be immediately referred to the onsite medical officer. In the event a guest does begin to show symptoms of Covid-19 strict protocols are in place. This includes isolation in guest suites, access to the incident team and emergency Medivac airlifts to the nearest pre-approved medical facility for treatment, should the need arise.

Average Temperature & Rainfall in Days

Visa Cost

Tourist visas can be applied for online & cost $50 for most nationalities. For more information click here.

Top Tip

Travel light -try to avoid carrying large amounts of money and leave any unnecessary valuables at home.

Local Currency

Although not the official currency, US dollars are accepted almost everywhere in Rwanda

peak season

Rainy season lasts from March to May then October to November, dry season is from June to mid-September then December to February.

Location

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