Review: Singita Kwitonda Lodge
At the end of February, just before the Coronavirus Pandemic shut down most of the world’s borders, we flew into the landlocked nation of Rwanda to see for ourselves if all we had heard about this incredible country was true. As it turns out, it was everything we heard and more. In this review, we give you the lowdown on Singita Kwitonda - the perfect place from which to base yourself in the Volcanoes National Park.
Location
Singita Kwitonda is nestled at the base of Volcanoes National Park’s distinctive mountain range, in the Northwest corner of Rwanda.
How to get there
Fly into Kigali International Airport. From there, Singita Kwitonda Lodge is a 3h-scenic drive through the rural Rwandan countryside. Alternatively, a quick 30-minute helicopter ride will take you from Kigali Airport right to the doorstep of the lodge.
Vibe of the Hotel
Look no further for another example of Singita’s uncompromisingly high standards. They have once again managed to deliver a lodge that could easily be a masterclass in eco-luxury design - with ample use of volcanic rock, river stone, handmade ceramic tiles and oven-red clay bricks made by the locals, thereby reiterating their strong commitment to sustainability and the community. Upon arrival, guests are led through a main hub connecting stunning internal and external living spaces which includes lounges, dining areas, a bar deli, an outdoor fire pit, and an interactive kitchen. Most impressive of all is the service here. Lydia and her capable team at Singita Kwitonda are equal parts personable and professional. Nothing is too much trouble for them. During our brief stay, the turnover of the laundry service was also impressively efficient.
What the rooms are like
Singita Kwitonda has 7 one-bedroom suites and 1 two-bedroom suite on its grounds. The massive wall-to-wall bay windows in each lodge allow guests to admire the imposing range of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura Volcanoes. Bathrooms have been constructed in a strong wellness vein, with outdoor and indoor showers, a free-standing bathtub, and a massage table for in-room treatments. Guests will also enjoy the use of their private heated plunge pool. Other features include indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a sheltered veranda, and a lovely surprise in the form of a little barrel of aged Negroni at the in-suite bar counter.
What you can do here
The biggest draw in the Volcanoes National Park is by far the endangered mountain gorillas living in the vicinity. The trek can be anywhere from a two-hour to a full-day affair, but coming in close proximity with a fully-grown silverback gorilla and his family is an experience like no other. Guests are accompanied by a whole team including a guide, porters, and trackers. The hike can be adjusted according to fitness levels but a moderate level of fitness is most recommended. The golden monkeys who frolic playfully in the national park are also worth a sight.
The lowdown on the food
The farm-to-table vegetable garden on-site supplies the lodge’s kitchen with fresh and sustainable produce. Rwandese influences are evident in the polished food served during our 3-course dinner. Entree choices included a sweet potato soup with coconut reduction, crab and corn fritters, and a confit tomato with camembert cheese. For our mains, we chose between goats cheese tortellini, pan-fried Nile perch, and a coffee-spiced beef fillet. We also recommend sampling any of their excellent Kinigi potato dishes.
Doubles from USD1,650 Per Person Per Night. A 2-night minimum stay is applicable all year-round.