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.