Kwitonda Lodge
Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Ruhengeri, Rwanda
USD 1,950
per adult per nightOverview
Set in Rwanda’s northwestern reaches, right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, Singita Kwitonda Lodge’s unparalleled position puts life-changing gorilla-trekking experiences within easy reach.
In response to its exquisite location, each of the lodge’s eight luxurious suites features a private heated plunge pool, in- and outdoor fireplaces and large timber-framed windows that welcome the breathtaking scenery and volcano views inside. Elements like woven ceilings and hand-fired terracotta brickwork crafted by local artisans highlight the authentic East African appeal of this remarkable lodge.
Further raising the bar on sustainable luxury eco-tourism, Kwitonda’s farm-to-table food journey celebrates Rwandese cuisine and fresh produce from the on-site garden, while the Akarabo Nursery is a fundamental part of Singita’s ambitious undertaking to contribute to the long-term conservation of endangered mountain gorillas by increasing their habitat through reforestation.
Affectionately known as “The land of a Thousand Hills”, this tiny country in the heart of the continent offers a range of other attractions too, and unspoilt forests, lush meadows, picture-perfect lakes and the vibrant streets of the capital Kigali all contribute to the increasing demand for Rwanda on East African itineraries.
Gallery
Additional Details
Singita Kwitonda Lodge is set within a landscape of wetlands and lush meadows with magnificent views of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura volcanoes. Designed around local materials, the buildings have been crafted using volcanic rock, river stone, handmade ceramic tiles and oven-red clay bricks made by surrounding communities; connecting the structure to the landscape and its culture. These influences interpreted in a contemporary style come together in a current, authentic and entirely unique architectural layout that is sensitive to its context and enjoys the privilege of remarkable views.
Mountain bamboo, ferns, giant lobelias and forest trees provide a natural backdrop that over time will engulf the buildings and reclaim them back into the forest. Dramatic stone walls rise out of the volcanic boulders, and from these, the architecture is suspended. A combination of green-roofed, stonewalled, organic cabin-like structures sit alongside light verandas offers a dynamic play on shape and texture.
The interiors have been carefully curated with a focus on handcrafted details. By layering texture and colour and introducing detail through artisanal and handmade pieces like woven panels, handmade tiles, and clay feature pots, space is both reflective and interactive. All elements combine to create a rare and richly textured experience that is true to this extraordinary place.
A central hub with beautiful indoor and outdoor living spaces serves as the heart of Singita Kwitonda Lodge. This space forms an experiential enclave with lounges, dining areas, an outdoor fire pit, an interactive kitchen, bar deli and a wine cellar for guests to enjoy.
Private, self-contained bedroom suites and amenities lead off of the main lodge via a network of volcanic rock pathways.
Singita Kwitonda Lodge offers:
- 7 one-bedroom suites (sleeps 2), each with indoor and outdoor showers, an indoor bath, a sitting/rest area, covered veranda, dressing room, mini bar, an in-room massage area, indoor and outdoor fireplaces and a heated plunge pool
- A two-bedroom suite (sleeps 4) with two identical bedrooms featuring indoor baths, indoor and outdoor showers, in-room massage areas and dressing rooms. The suite offers indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a more spacious sitting/rest area, a minibar, covered veranda and a heated plunge pool
- Singita Volcanoes National Park also includes an exclusive-use four-bedroom villa, Kataza House (sleeps 8), featuring indoor baths and showers, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, informal living and dining areas, an interactive kitchen, covered veranda, heated plunge pools, cinema room, massage treatment room, fitness centre and a small cellar
Amenities:
- In-room massage treatments
- Central fireplaces in suites and the main lodge
- Private outdoor heated plunge pools
- The on-site Akarabo Nursery and garden
- Wine cellar and tastings
- A dedicated Gear Room
- Two Boutique & Gallery cabinets in the main area of Kwitonda Lodge
- Conservation Room
- Complimentary WiFi throughout the lodge
- Electricity/power available: 220V. Converters are also available and hairdryers are supplied in each suite
- Children of all ages are welcome at the lodge, but please note that the minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15
- Open year-round.
- Check-in time: 1pm
- Check-out time: 11am
- Guests wishing to check-in before 1pm and/or checking out after 11am are required to book an additional night at the Day Use Rate.
Please note
No activities at Volcanoes National Park can be booked on the day of departure from Singita Kwitonda Lodge. This includes gorilla trekking, golden monkey treks, hikes to the volcanoes and the hike to Dian Fossey’s gravesite. These activities usually don’t allow enough time for guests to return to the lodge to freshen up before their departure. As Singita Volcanoes National Park doesn’t offer day-use facilities, guests wishing to participate in Park activities on their last day need to book an additional night.
Encountering the untamed wilderness and magnificent wildlife of Africa is a truly lifechanging experience, no matter what one’s age, and time spent at Singita Kwitonda Lodge makes for an unforgettable family holiday. It’s a destination that is sure to open a child’s eye to the beauty and wonders of the continent and the natural world.
All activities at the lodge are tailored to specifically suit the interests of each family. The minimum age requirement for gorilla trekking is 15, but the lodge offers childminding services, as well as an array of activities to keep little ones engaged and entertained.
Children’s activities offered:
- Cooking interactions
- Board games
- Stargazing
- Activity booklets with a variety of games, quizzes and games
- Arts & crafts
- Movies
- Swimming
- Birding
- Cycling
- Akarabo Nursery and garden tour
- Golden monkey treks (for children over 12 years)
Rwanda has a temperate tropical highland climate, with lower temperatures than are typical for equatorial countries due to its high elevation.
Singita Volcanoes National Park is situated approximately 2,600 metres above sea level on the foothills of the Virunga Mountains and experiences chillier temperatures compared to lower-lying areas.
The average temperature at Singita Volcanoes National Park is approximately 15°C (59°F) and the humidity can be quite high.
The long rainy season lasts from March to May, when the rain is heavy and persistent. The long dry season is from June to mid-September. October to November is a shorter rainy season; followed by a short dry season from December to February.
Rwanda can be visited at any time of the year and gorilla trekking is a year-round activity. Singita Volcanoes National Park’s covered golf carts have waterproof roller blinds and transport guests seamlessly from the main lodge to their suites when it rains.
We recommend packing the following
For the lodge:
- Pants, long-sleeved tops, T-shirts, a warm layer for the evenings, comfortable walking shoes/track shoes, sandals, a swimming costume/bathing suit, sun hat and sunglasses. (Hats are provided for guests to use during their stay.) No formal wear is required at any of our lodges.
- Cotton clothing in neutral colours for outdoor walks and cycling. It’s advisable to avoid white and dark colours as they tend to attract bugs.
- Sunblock, lip balm and mosquito repellent. (These products are provided, but you are welcome to bring your own preferred brand).
- Video camera, camera, binoculars and a spare memory card. (Each suite is equipped with a pair of binoculars to use during your stay, but you’re welcome to also pack your own.)
For trekking:
Conditions on treks vary and it’s best to be prepared for rainy and muddy conditions. Be sure to pack waterproof hiking boots with a good grip and ankle support, hiking chaps, gloves, a waterproof jacket/raincoat, hiking pants, thick socks to protect you against stinging nettles, gloves and long-sleeved tops.
Singita Kwitonda Lodge provides:
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 lunchbox, snacks and a water bottle.
Technical trekking gear
The following items for outdoor hiking and wet weather are available in the Gear Room at the main lodge. Guests can borrow these during their stay:
- Hiking chaps/gators – worn over shoes to just under the knee, protecting you against stinging nettles.
- A backpack (including a lunchbox) and rain cover.
- Trekking poles. Guests can also borrow or purchase locally made and carved poles from porters in Volcanoes National Park.
Important note: The use of drones is strictly prohibited throughout Rwanda. Luggage is checked on arrival and drones may be confiscated at the discretion of customs officials.
Tips for TravellersHealth requirements
- Singita Kwitonda Lodge is situated nearby malaria-risk areas and we recommend that you adhere to the advice of your doctor the use of prophylactics. Insect repellent (spray or wipes) are provided.
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A yellow fever certificate is required if travelling from a yellow fever endemic area.
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Guests are strongly advised to check the latest information regarding vaccination for travel to Rwanda with their local travel clinic or travel agent.
A yellow fever certificate is required if travelling from a yellow fever endemic area.
Guests are strongly advised to check the latest information with regard to vaccinations for travel to Rwanda with their local travel clinic or travel agent.
Passport Requirements
Please note, all travellers require a passport valid for 6 months after arrival as well as at least 2 blank visa pages in your passport for travel.
Rooms
Map & Directions
Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Ruhengeri, Rwanda
Your Journey to Reach Singita Kwitonda Lodge
International flights arrive at Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali.
- Singita Volcanoes National Park can either be accessed by a 30-minute helicopter flight or a 3-hour road transfer from Kigali.
- The drive is wonderfully scenic but quite winding and hilly. Guests are therefore advised to pack motion sickness tablets if needed.
- It’s also important to note that there’s only one public rest stop on the way.
- Direct flights from Singita Grumeti in Tanzania to Kigali are available.
- There are also good connections on Rwanda Air between Kigali and Cape Town/Johannesburg in South Africa. This makes Singita Volcanoes National Park an excellent destination in combination with other wilderness destinations in Africa.
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.
Video
Activities
Golden Monkey Trekking
Golden monkey trekking is a rare and delightful experience, not to be missed. These primates are highly endangered and are only found in this part of the world, living in the Virunga mountain ranges. Encountering golden monkeys in the Volcanoes National Park is a highly immersive experience as trekkers are surrounded by up to one hundred monkeys foraging in the forest and jumping from tree to tree. The monkeys live in bamboo vegetation close to the base of the volcanoes so the hike to find them is on fairly flat terrain and the distance is not far, making this an activity that is easily accessible to most.
On-the-day Details
Golden monkey trekking takes place daily in the Volcanoes National Park at the same time as the gorilla trekking. Permits need to be secured and there is one departure per day, but there isn’t a limit on numbers or age for monkey trekking groups.
For trekking guests should wear hiking shoes and long pants and carry a water bottle and a rain jacket or poncho – both of which are provided to Singita guests. On the day of the trek, guests will be woken early and taken to the ranger station a few kilometres from the lodge. After a briefing by rangers, guests and their guide will head set off on an easy hike. The distance of the walk is variable, depending on the location of the monkeys, but can be as short as 30 minutes each way. Once the troop is located guests will spend up to an hour with them, observing these beautiful and busy creatures in their natural habitat.
After the trek, guests will return to the comfort of the lodge, where they will gear down in a warm mud room and relax with a refreshing beverage, while reflecting on the day. Meals and lodge activities are flexible around each trek.
Village Tours
A visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village in nearby Kinigi gives guests the special chance to spend time with exceptionally welcoming local communities and to experience their traditional lifestyle and culture. Ancient traditions of honour and hospitality run strong here, and anybody who takes the time to discover Rwandan culture for themselves will find a proud and unique people, very happy to welcome you into their lives and introduce you to their traditions.
Here guests can enjoy local-guided walks and home visits, displays of traditional dance and song, and fascinating stories told by proud and enthusiastic folk. Visitors can engage in pottery making lessons and shouldn’t leave the village without having had a taste of local food and locally brewed banana beer.
Hiking and Walking
There are several activities available to guests staying at Singita Volcanoes National Park. These range from pursuits within Volcanoes National Park, to spending time around the lodge or discovering the neighbouring communities or town. Guests can experience these activities at their convenience with their Driver Guides and vehicles always being available.
Gorilla Trekking
Cost: $1,500 per person
Duration: Treks vary from 1 to 8 hours, depending on which gorilla family guests are allocated to.
The age restriction for gorilla trekking and volcano hikes is 15; and 12 for golden monkey treks.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Cost: $100 per person
Duration: 1 to 4 hours, depending on where the monkeys are located.
The age restriction for gorilla trekking and volcano hikes is 15; and 12 for golden monkey treks.
Hike to Dian Fossey’s Gravesite
Cost: $75 per person
Duration: 2 to 3 hours each way, depending on fitness levels.
Mount Bisoke Crater Lake Hike
Cost: $75 per person
Duration: 3 to 4 hours each way, depending on fitness levels.
PLEASE NOTE: Guests are encouraged to take approximately US 50 in cash with them when they go gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking or hiking in Volcanoes National Park. This is to pay a porter the minimum fee of US 10, as well as tips for trackers and guides at the Park. We strongly recommend making use of porters, as they help guests with everything from navigating slippery terrain and steep inclines to carrying backpacks during longer treks.
Musanze Caves
Cost: $50 per person
Duration: 1 hour
Community Tours
Guests at Singita Volcanoes National Park have the unique opportunity to visit the small village of Gasura in the Kinigi sector, which is located 30 minutes from the lodge. The interactive tour takes approximately two hours and includes a range of authentic Rwandese cultural experiences.
Taking guests from house to house in the village, this involves everything from meeting local crafters weaving baskets and carving gorilla-trekking sticks to learning how to process locally produced staples – such as stomping cassava roots and grinding sorghum for flour. It also includes visiting families in their homes to get a glimpse of the local lifestyle.
Cost: $90 per person
Duration: +- 2 hours
Gorilla Trekking
Spending time tracking and sitting with mountain gorillas is the ultimate wildlife experience and the reason why most people visit Rwanda on holiday. The location of Kwitonda Lodge puts gorilla trekking within easy reach, and daily hikes to observe gorilla groups in their natural habitat in the Volcanoes National Park are led by expert guides. Gorilla trekking permits need to be secured in advance and Singita can assist guests with this. Daily trek groups allow for eight people per gorilla family per day, and the age limit for trekking is 15.
On-the-day Details
Singita guests take in pre-trek information and media in a dedicated conservation room at the lodge, and enjoy the convenience of an onsite gear-room for gearing up comfortably before their trek. For trekking guests should wear boots with good grip, gators, gloves, thick socks and pants and a long sleeved top. 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 will be provided. Guests will receive a loaned backpack containing a lunchbox, snacks and a water bottle.
On the day of the trek, guests will be woken early to enjoy breakfast and gear up, after which they’ll be taken to the guide station a few kilometres from the lodge. Here, guests will have a briefing by the guides, and when ready will set off on the scenic trek through thick forest terrain towards a specific gorilla group, guided by trained rangers. The length of the trek varies, depending on which gorilla family group guests are allocated to, and this will be decided upon with regard to the fitness levels and capabilities of the trekkers. Once the gorilla group is located guests will spend up to an hour with them, observing these gentle creatures in their natural habitat.
Post-trek, guests will return to the comfort of the lodge, where they will gear down in a warm mudroom and relax with a refreshing beverage, while reflecting on the day. As the distance of each gorilla trek is varied meals and lodge activities are flexible around each trek.
Conservation Room
The dedicated Conservation Room at Singita Volcanoes National Park is situated in the main area at Kwitonda Lodge. This interactive educational space is managed by Singita’s specialist conservationists and provides a unique perspective on endangered mountain gorillas and their habitat. The Room features an inspiring conservation wall with valuable information, iMacs, a big-screen television, maps and books – as well as a private collection of Robert Ian Martin (“Bob”) Campbell’s travel and photographic equipment. This renowned wildlife photographer and filmmaker was best known for his footage and photographs of Dian Fossey and mountain gorillas published in National Geographic.
On the evening before a gorilla trek, guests meet in the Conservation Room, where a lodge manager and Singita conservationist will explain various aspects of the trekking experience. This includes more details about the area; a general outline of the day’s itinerary; what is offered at Volcanoes National Park’s Headquarters; the roles of guides, trackers and porters; the trek’s departure time, duration and distance; trekking rules; what technical trekking gear can be borrowed from Singita’s Gear Room; options for packed lunches; weather and hiking conditions; more about the gorillas, golden monkeys and other animals that may be encountered on the trek; and the arrangements for returning to the lodge.
For Families
Encountering Africa’s magnificent wildlife is a truly life-changing experience, no matter what one’s age, and time spent at our Lodge makes for an unforgettable family holiday. Filled with discovery and shared connections within nature, it’s an ideal opportunity to open children’s eyes to the wonders of an untouched wilderness.
All activities at the lodge are tailored to specifically suit the interests of each family. In the interest of safety, children may participate in game drives and bush walks at the discretion of dedicated Field Guides. The lodge also offers childminding services, as well as an array of activities to keep little ones engaged and entertained.
Our exciting Mini Rangers Course is a customised, fun-filled programme that opens up a whole new world to young explorers. It includes learning how to track animals; astronomy; bush survival techniques; game-, tree- and bird-spotting competitions as well as nature quizzes.
Children aged 10 years and older are welcome at our Lodge.
More children’s activities offered:
- Cooking interactions
- Board games
- Stargazing
- Bush walks (minimum age 16)
- Activity booklets with a variety of games, quizzes and games
- Arts & crafts
- Movies
- Swimming
Wellness
Offering the luxury of unfiltered time and space, the African wilderness is the ultimate setting for complete unwinding, while the continent’s healing energies are encapsulated in rituals that nourish and nurture.
Our enduring purpose to restore the land and its wildlife extends to offering healing experiences to our guests at every touchpoint. The dedicated treatments in our massage spaces tap into the profound benefits of indigenous wisdoms and essential oils that relax, replenish and revive. Each tailor-made therapy can be customised and timed to preference, ensuring a completely personalised experience.
The massage menu has been designed to immerse guests into their beautiful surroundings, and all treatments incorporate that peace and vibrant energy to revitalize and nourish the soul.
Akarabo Nursery
Named Akarabo– which means ‘little flower’ in Kinyarwanda – our on-site nursery was borne from our commitment to help reforest, rehabilitate and maintain the habitat of Rwanda’s endangered mountain gorillas. Initially, 60,000 saplings were bought from local growers and earmarked for the 178 acres of land Singita Volcanoes National Park sits on. This number quickly grew to 250,000 saplings, even before the lodge opened, and continues to increase as we keep expanding our reforestation efforts in the area.
It’s a privilege to share this lush diversity of plants with our guests. Whether you opt for a gentle stroll along the rows of new trees, past the glorious fragrances of flourishing herbs or through the farm-to-table chef’s garden filled with fresh vegetables, it’s bound to inspire and delight in equal measure.
Providing an authentic taste of Rwanda’s offerings, our garden includes a teahouse serving fresh herbal brews, as well as local artisans such as a basket weaver, seamstress and stick carver showcasing the intricacies of their craft. Echoing our passion for treading lightly on the land, living sustainably and empowering communities, Akarabo is growing – just like the saplings being planted – into a lasting, living legacy.
Farm-to-Table Garden
Singita Volcanoes National Park’s farm-to-table vegetable garden is a joy to behold, and filled with the freshest Rwandan flavours. Inspiring the healthy dishes on our mouthwatering menus, the crops provide a visual feast – with everything from bright carrots to crisp green rocket catching the eye and tantalising taste buds.
Conservation Room
The dedicated Conservation Room at Singita Volcanoes National Park is situated in the main area at Kwitonda Lodge. This interactive educational space is managed by Singita’s specialist conservationists and provides a unique perspective on endangered mountain gorillas and their habitat. The Room features an inspiring conservation wall with valuable information, iMacs, a big-screen television, maps and books – as well as a private collection of Robert Ian Martin (“Bob”) Campbell’s travel and photographic equipment. This renowned wildlife photographer and filmmaker was best known for his footage and photographs of Dian Fossey and mountain gorillas published in National Geographic.
On the evening before a gorilla trek, guests meet in the Conservation Room, where a lodge manager and Singita conservationist will explain various aspects of the trekking experience. This includes more details about the area; a general outline of the day’s itinerary; what is offered at Volcanoes National Park’s Headquarters; the roles of guides, trackers and porters; the trek’s departure time, duration and distance; trekking rules; what technical trekking gear can be borrowed from Singita’s Gear Room; options for packed lunches; weather and hiking conditions; more about the gorillas, golden monkeys and other animals that may be encountered on the trek; and the arrangements for returning to the lodge.