Singita’s Kwitonda Lodge Brings Luxury to African Safaris

Going on an African Safari has always been a romantic notion, but now it can be one of luxury as well. The Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House in Rwanda offer an incredible view into Africa and it’s incredible wildlife.

Kwitonda was named for the legendary silverback gorilla who was known for his wisdom in preserving his family. The lodge is built on 178 acres set on the edge of the Volcanoes National Park. Serving as a home base, the lodge allows visitors to venture out to take in the experience of “gorilla trekking.” Such a trip involves an early morning rise to take a short drive to meet your guide.

Then a hike through a dense cloud forest takes you to viewing sites where you can watch families of gorillas. Depending on which family group is assigned to your tour group, your hike could take between a couple of hours to a full day. Not only will guests get to see gorillas and golden monkeys, but they can also explore different parts of Rwanda, such as the Afro Montane Forest of Nyungwe National Park, Lake Kivu, and Rwanda’s capital, Kigali.The lodge itself offers world-class trappings. The eight suites, each with a covered veranda, indoor and outdoor showers, soaking tubs, a heated plunge pool, fireplaces, and a spa area that offers alfresco massages. The Kataza House is an exclusive villa with four bedrooms and a private chef. There’s also a pool, open living and dining spaces, a media room, and a gym.

The whole resort has been built for sustainability, using environmentally friendly energy and water systems. Building materials were also sustainably sourced. Over 500 local artisans and builders were hired out to build the project. They worked on creating the volcanic rock walls, the woven ceilings, and the hand-fired terracotta brickwork.

Regardless of where you are, you’ll be treated to fantastic views thanks to over-sized windows—views that illustrate why the lodge went to such trouble to maintain the area