Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Singita Kwitonda Lodge is the real deal if looking for an intimate, boutique Gorilla trekking lodge in Rwanda, with just nine private pool suites to its name, an organic kitchen-garden onsite and group of expert guides who’ll lead your small group wildlife walks throughout the Volcanoes National Park. The lodge itself is a joy, all bare stone and wicker weave from the outside, though contemporary furnishings and wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows within. This, mixed with traditional artworks, pottery and tribal artefacts – in addition to the stunningly scenic setting and gorgeous national park views – add a real sense of place to this lodge during your stay.

There is an organic kitchen-garden onsite to service their gourmet restaurant and seasonal menus, plus a lovely lounge bar too, though almost everything else at Singita Kwitonda Lodge can be found within each individual suite, of which there are only nine. All of them follow the same design cues as the rest of the lodge, and come with a private plunge pool and patio, lounge area, king-size bed, indoor and outdoor showers, a deep-soak standalone bathtub (with a view), massage area and plenty of mod-cons throughout. Families can opt for the Two or Four-bedroom Suite categories, with the latter also including a large living room and fully functional kitchen which adds a bit of independence if you need it.

There is no formal kids club here at Singita Kwitonda Lodge, though little ones will have access to games, activities and classes (provided by the team) which will keep them busy while adults go Gorilla trekking, as the minimum age is 15 for this activity. Indeed, Gorilla trekking, hiking, wildlife walks in search of the endangered Golden Monkey and climbing the surrounding volcanoes are the main reasons for booking your stay at Singita Kwitonda, and you couldn’t ask for anywhere more luxurious in this environment. Activities certainly come aplenty here, with a range of challenging and scenic hikes, wildlife spotting and even overnight camping atop Karisimbi Volcano available, plus day trips to local villages and the capital Kigali, in-between all-important Gorilla trekking tours, that is.