High-design gorilla lodge
Volcanic rock fireplaces anchor open-timber lounges where floor-to-ceiling glass looks straight out to the mist-shrouded Virunga peaks.
“Base camp is comprised of eight suites and a cottage that channel the local culture while meeting the high standards of the upscale guests.”
Where it shines
Remarkable
Volcanic stone masonry and woven ceilings face timber-framed views of Mount Sabyinyo.
Remarkable
Private butlers outfit trekking gear and arrange in-suite fire lighting after muddy hikes.
Remarkable
An on-site nursery cultivates indigenous flora to expand the mountain gorilla buffer zone.
What they say
Two Michelin Keys
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler, The 50 Discovery and AFAR.
Singita specializes in ultra-luxe, high-design safari experiences, and Singita Kwitonda Lodge, the brand’s first establishment in Rwanda, is true to form.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Set along the park perimeter, the lodge sits minutes from headquarters where early-morning mountain gorilla treks begin.
The rooms
Every suite features indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a heated veranda plunge pool, and framed views of Mount Sabyinyo.
The plunge pools
Bring a swimsuit.
Heated stone plunge pools sit on private verandas beside outdoor fireplaces, looking out toward the national park.
The spa
Therapists set up massage tables inside your suite dressing area for restorative bodywork after gorilla treks.
Yoga on the deck
Yoga mats unroll on private decks overlooking the volcanic plains, and walking trails trace the 178-acre grounds.
At the table
Bespoke meals center on Rwandan produce and fresh herbs harvested directly from the lodge's organic kitchen garden.
Architecture is boldly scaled, many of the building materials locally sourced—oven-fired red clay bricks, river stones, bamboo and eucalyptus poles.
How it began
Named in honor of Kwitonda, a gentle silverback gorilla, the lodge operates an on-site nursery propagating indigenous forest flora.
“The eight stand-alone rooms, with their soaring ceilings and picture windows facing the Sabinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura volcanoes, take inspiration from the local landscape.”
Stay here
Singita Kwitonda & Kataza House
See rooms and prices on the hotel's own website.
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Volcanoes National Park
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.