Luxury Lodge Singita Launches New Rwanda Retreat

Published: August 6, 2019

Luxury lodges and camps brand Singita has launched Singita Kwitonda Lodge and private villa Kataza House in Rwanda. Spanning 178 acres of the country’s Volcanoes National Park, where a third of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas find refuge, the name of the property references the silver-back gorilla.

The eight luxury suites at the lodge are conceived by Cape Town-based GAPP Architects, in collaboration with interior design studios Cécile & Boyd and Hesse Kleinloog Studio. The bold, striking interiors reflect the duality of the natural habitats of gorillas, while highlighting the interplay between linear artworks and furnishings with pared-back modernity.

Indoor-outdoor fireplaces anchor the four villa suites that feature plunge pools. Organically shaped brick pods and large reflective surfaces harmonize with the natural scenery through timber-framed windows. Natural phenomenons of the region, like earth, mist, rain, and lava, are referenced across the woven ceilings and hand-fired terracotta brickwork, while staggered volcanic stone walls, covered walkways, and outdoor terraces reinforce the outdoors.

The private villa located at the lodge, Kataza House, stands as a benchmark for environmentally conscious hospitality. Designed for exclusive use, the villa is serviced with a private chef and host.