The much-anticipated opening of Singita Volcanoes National Park marks the next exciting chapter in our ongoing conservation journey in Africa. The eight-suite Kwitonda Lodge and exclusive-use villa Kataza House enjoys an unrivalled location right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, where a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas find refuge.

Arguably built as one of the most sustainable lodges on the continent, Singita Volcanoes National Park honours Rwanda’s people and its fertile land by touching lightly on the land, while contributing significantly to conservation, community partnerships and ecotourism.

Conceptualised by GAPP Architects in collaboration with interior design teams HK Studio and Cécile & Boyd, the lodge and villa take their cue from Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage and the enormous responsibility of protecting the strong, yet vulnerable gorillas. Mirroring the powerful imagery evoked by these magnificent, gentle creatures, the décor reflects their plight with ease and simplicity, resulting in spaces that are both bold and embracing.

Singita Volcanoes National Park was created in response to its dramatic setting and guest suites include private heated plunge pools and massage areas, as well as in- and outdoor fireplaces. A dedicated Conservation Room, Gear Room, on-site nursery and vegetable garden providing fresh produce for the lodge’s farm-to-table food journey further enhances this unique offering in Rwanda.

Awe-inspiring views of the Virunga mountain range and volcanoes form the backdrop for a fresh, pared-back modernity coupled with splashes of colour and surprise – and the effect is startling, yet soothing; captivating, yet calming.

Natural elements like mud, earth, mist, rain and lava are cleverly integrated into furniture pieces and linear art, while the vivid colour palette of black, khaki green, ‘greige’ and fiery orange echo the surrounding landscape, which flows in through large windows. It highlights an organic rawness that’s inherently African, sophisticated and polished, yet earthy.

Key textural and decorative themes include hand-tooled geometric pieces and the Rwandese tradition of Imigongo, which entails decorating walls with striking patterns. More than 500 local artisans and builders were involved in crafting features like lava rock walks, exquisite woven ceilings and hand-fired terracotta brickwork, ensuring an authentic translation of local culture into the design of the lodge and villa, while boosting local employment and business.

Finishes include raw and burnished timbers, natural pigments on walls and the hand-fired terracotta tiles that are typically seen on Rwandese rooftops throughout the countryside, while long-lasting furniture pieces anchor each room and space, providing a profound sense of groundedness. This ties in perfectly with the serious, soul-centering experience of meeting the gorillas up close on treks – creating a sense of place, purpose and perspective.

One-bedroom suite, Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Guest bathroom, Singita Kwitonda Lodge

One-bedroom suite lounge/sitting area and outdoor veranda, Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Singita’s primary motivation for operating in Rwanda is to play a key role in the conservation of the gorillas in the Park. To this end, the company committed to extensive reforestation initiatives in the area, helping to increase their range and numbers. The lodge also puts gorilla-trekking experiences within easy reach and is situated less than ten minutes from the Park's headquarters.

Says Luke Bailes, Singita’s Founder and Executive Chairman: "It’s such a privilege to expand our conservation footprint into Africa and we are thrilled with the elegant and sustainable lodge and villa that we’ve created here. They allow our guests to connect deeply with nature in the heart of Africa, after humbling encounters with the gentle giants of the forest."

Master suite, Singita Kataza House

Guest bathroom, Singita Kataza House

Main lounge area, Singita Kataza House

Dining room, Singita Kataza House

DISCOVER SINGITA KWITONDA LODGE & KATAZA HOUSE

Singita Kwitonda Lodge comprises:

• 7 one-bedroom suites (sleeps 2) with an indoor bath, in- and outdoor showers, in- and outdoor fireplaces, covered veranda, a sitting/lounge area, dressing room, mini bar, heated plunge pool, and in-room massage treatment area.
• 1 two-bedroom suite (sleeps 4) with an indoor bath, in- and outdoor showers, in- and outdoor fireplaces, a sitting/lounge area, dressing room, mini bar, covered veranda, heated plunge pool off the main lounge area, outdoor shower and in-room massage treatment area.

Singita Kataza House comprises:

• A four-bedroom villa (sleeps 8) with indoor baths and showers, outdoor showers, in- and outdoor fireplaces, a cinema room, fitness centre, gear-up area for trekking, informal living, ‘bar-deli’ and dining areas, interactive kitchen, covered veranda, heated plunge pools off the main lounge area and master suite, a fire pit with outdoor seating, a massage treatment room and a two-bedroom staff residence.

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View from lounge area in two-bedroom suite, Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Guest bathroom, Singita Kwitonda Lodge

PROMOTION: Singita Serengeti & Singita Volcanoes National Park Combo Combine three nights at Singita Volcanoes National Park (Singita Kwitonda Lodge or Kataza House) with four nights at any combination of Singita Serengeti lodges and receive 50% off one night at Singita Volcanoes National Park and a complimentary night at Singita Serengeti, as well as 50% off a private vehicle. \_Find out more »_