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K A T A Z A H O U S E
Sustainability is key to the future of preserving and protecting large areas of land in Africa. It is a combination of guests staying at our lodges, together with partnerships on various different levels, that enables us to pursue our vision.– Luke Bailes, Founder & Executive Chairman, Singita
Singita is committed to saving Africa’s wilderness 3
Conservation as a way of life 4
Rwanda’s magical charm 5
Welcome to Singita Kataza House 6
The Kataza House experience 7
A life-changing opportunity: gorilla-trekking 8
Unique experiences in the heart of Africa 9
Preparing for your journey 10
Our location 11
Getting to Singita Kataza House 12
Weather and temperature 13
The finer details 14
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SINGITA IS COMMITTED TO SAVING AFRICA’S WILDERNESS
We’ve been preserving African wilderness for the past two decades. Through an exceptional safari experience with 15 award-winning lodges and camps across South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Rwanda, Singita is able to partially fund the protection andpreservation of over a million acres of pristine land and existing wildlife populations, as well as helping to create economic independencewithin local communities surrounding the reserves.
Travellers choose to stay at Singita because of the expansive space and beauty of the reserves, limited guest and vehicle numbers, extraordinarily consistent game viewing and the exceptional care that is taken of each guest during their stay. When guests depart after a Singita safari, they are transformed for life, satisfied in the knowledge that they’ve made a contribution to the legacy of Africa.
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CONSERVATION AS A WAY OF LIFE
Built upon a 100-year purpose to preserve and protect large areas of African wilderness for future generations, Singita has been championing conservation in Africa from the very beginning. We achieve this with large-scale projects in wildlife management and protection, reserve and ecosystem integrity, sustainable tourism practices and community development.
Through a sustainable conservation model that helps balance tourism with conservation in all regions in which we operate, Singita’s ethos of “touching the earth lightly” is no longer just a forward-thinking principle; it is imperative to our survival, and that of the land, wildlife and communities under our care.
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DISCOVER RWANDA’S MAGICAL CHARM
Affectionately known as “The Land of a Thousand Hills”, this tiny East African gem might be small, but with its unspoilt forests, lush meadows and picture-perfect lakes, it’s anatural wonder-world with plenty to offer.
Situated on its northwestern border, Volcanoes National Park is home to more than one third of the remaining mountain gorillas in the world. It is here, sharing a 1.2km border with the Park, that Singita Kataza House – the only villa in such close proximity to the habitat of the gorillas – puts trekking experiences within easy reach.
As the perfect springboard for these encounters, Singita Kataza House is also ideally located to discover the rest of Rwanda’s offerings – from the sights and sounds of the vibrant capital, Kigali, to Nyungwe National Park with its suspended canopy walk.
The country’s miraculous recovery from its painful past is testimony to the newfound solidarity, impressive work ethic and warmth of its people. This regenerative spirit has inspired the entire guest experience at Kataza House, where guests are enveloped in a contemplative, nurturing space in which to appreciate the transformative experience of coming face to face with the forest’s gentle giants.
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WELCOME TO SINGITA KATAZA HOUSE
Planned with its pristine location on the edge ofVolcanoes National Park in mind, Singita Kataza House is a response to the natural geology of the area. It offers an intimate engagement with thelandscape and a sense of solitude within nature.
This luxuriously modern African home featuresindividual pavilions grouped around a central cluster of living spaces, with self-contained bedroom suites and amenities accessed via landscaped forestwalkways. The work of local stone masons, weavers and ceramicists add unique allure to the exquisite design and interiors of this singular property.
Kataza House was designed for exclusive use, while all the facilities and amenities at the adjacent Singita Kwitonda Lodge are at guests’ disposal.
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THE SINGITA KATAZA HOUSE EXPERIENCE
Accommodation • 1 x master suite• 1 x junior master suite• 2 x suites• 1 x two-bedroom staff residence
A luxury experience in the heart of AfricaEvery creature comfort is taken of with these great amenities:
• Private wine cellar• Private interactive kitchen• Generously stocked ‘bar-deli’• House manager, chef and house staff• Private entrance and turning circle• Golf cart for access to Singita Kwitonda Lodge (should
guests wish to enjoy a meal at the main facility)• Heated pool off main lounge• Private heated pool off master suite• Gear-up area• Massage treatment room• Fitness centre• Complimentary WiFi internet throughout• iPad and media suite in each room• Private cinema room• Fire pit• Indoor and outdoor dining and lounge areas• Children of all ages are welcome. There are tailor-made
activities available – please refer to the page listing our on-site activities.
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A BUCKET-LIST EXPERIENCE:GORILLA TREKKING
Singita Kataza House provides a contemplative, nurturing space in which to appreciate the transformative experience of coming face to face with the forest’s gentle giants.
For most guests, a gorilla trek is at the top of their list when they visit Rwanda and a stay at Singita Kataza House allows them the privilege to encounter one of Africa’s mostmajestic and gentle creatures in the wild, while immersed in the beauty of their pristine natural habitat.
Setting off early in the morning for the 7am briefing atVolcanoes National Park’s headquarters, less than 10 minutes from Singita Kataza House, guests are matched with a guide before starting their hike into the dense cloud forest.
The distance of each gorilla trek is varied, so depending on which gorilla family group guests are allocated to, the duration is anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day. Meals and lodge activities are flexible around each trek.
As the age requirement for gorilla treks is 15, children will be cared for at the lodge where a variety of supervised activities are on offer.
* See ‘THE FINER DETAILS’ for more information on permits and costs.
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UNIQUE EXPERIENCES IN THE HEART OF AFRICA
Apart from gorilla trekking, guests at Singita Kataza House are privy to a whole host of unforgettable encounters. These range from pursuits within Volcanoes National Park to spending time around the lodge and discovering neighbouring communities.
Off-site activities
Activities at Volcanoes National Park:Gorilla trekking• USD 1,500 per person • 2-8 hours, depending on which gorilla family guests are allocated to
Golden monkey trekking • USD 100 per person • 1-4 hours, depending on where the monkeys are located
Hike to Dian Fossey’s gravesite • USD 75 per person • 4-6 hours, depending on fitness levels
Mount Bisoke Crater Lake hike • USD 75 per person • 6-8 hours, depending on fitness levels
PLEASE NOTE:• Guests are encouraged to take approximately USD 50 in cash on gorilla treks, golden monkey treks or
hikes in Volcanoes National Park. This is to pay a porter the minimum fee of USD 10 and to tip trackers and guides at the Park.
• We strongly recommend making use of porters – they help with everything from navigating slippery terrain and steep inclines to carrying backpacks during longer treks.
• The minimum age for gorilla treks and volcano hikes is 15 years; and 12 years for golden monkey treks. • Permits for gorilla treks and golden monkey treks are limited and need to be purchased before travel
to avoid disappointment. • Please note: We strongly recommend that no activities at Volcanoes National Park should be booked
on the day of departure.
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Off-site activities continued
Musanze Caves • USD 50 per person • 1 hour
Community ExperienceVisit the small village of Gasura in the Kinigi sector, which is located 30 minutes from the lodge. This interactive tour includes a range of authentic Rwandese cultural experiences and glimpses of the local lifestyle. • USD 90 per person • 2-3 hours
On-site activities (included in rate)
• A dedicated interactive Conservation Room for Trek Orientations, more information on the gorillas, as well as photo-editing and multimedia facilities.
• Akarabo Nursery: guests can stroll through our farm-to-table vegetable garden that celebrates seasonal local produce and also participate in tree-planting as part of Singita’s reforestation efforts in the area.
• Word-class wine tastings.• Various exercise options, including cycling, running, walking and yoga, as well as Kataza House’s private fitness centre
featuring equipment such as a treadmill, weights, exercise bike and en suite bathroom.• Cooking lessons with our expert chefs in Kataza House’s fully equipped interactive kitchen.
On-site activities (additional charge)
• Massage treatments (in-room, in the villa’s outdoor areas or in Kataza House’s treatment room.)• Experiences with local artisans:
• Rwandan seamstress: learn more about local styles and order your own tailor-made item. • Stick carver: see how these beautifully carved items that are traditionally used on treks come to life and order
your own as a memento. • Basket weaving: try your hand at weaving some beautiful local patterns, and buy items, should you wish.
PLEASE NOTE:The seamstress, stick carver and basket-weaving experiences are located at the Akarabo Nursery and take place daily between 2pm and 5pm. Costs vary depending on items selected.
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Children’s activities
There is a dedicated childminder, who is available to entertain children while their parents are on gorilla treks or busy doing other activities at Volcanoes National Park. Please note that this service should be pre-arranged when booking your stay.
• Akarabo Nursery visits: Kids can explore the garden and also help to pick vegetables and plant new plants. There are gardening tools, gloves and nursery baskets for this activity.
• Cooking classes: Donning kids’ aprons and little chefs’ hats, kids can cook up a storm with one of our expertly trained chefs.
• Cycling and nature walks. • Arts and crafts: Paint sets, art pads and colouring-in pencils are
provided. • Boardgames, cards, word games and puzzles. (There is also a
selection of boardgames and cards in each suite).
Gratuity guidelines
Gratuities are entirely at guests’ discretion. Please note that gratuities for Volcanoes National Park’s trekking Guides and Trackers should be paid independently and in cash.
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PREPARING FOR YOUR JOURNEY
We recommend packing the followingFor the lodge:• Pants, long-sleeved tops, T-shirts, a warm layer for the evenings, comfortable walking shoes/track shoes,
sandals, a swimming costume/bathing suit, sun hat and sunglasses (hats are provided for guests to use during their stay). No formal wear is required at any of our lodges.
• Cotton clothing in neutral colours for outdoor walks and cycling. It’s advisable to avoid white and dark colours as they tend to attract bugs.
• Sun block, lip balm and mosquito repellent. (These products are provided, but you are welcome to bring your own preferred brand).
• Video camera, camera, binoculars and a spare memory card. (Each suite is equipped with a pair of binoculars to use during your stay, but you’re welcome to also pack your own.)
For trekking:Conditions on treks vary and it’s best to be prepared for rainy and muddy conditions. Be sure to pack waterproof hiking boots with a good grip and ankle support, hiking chaps, gloves, a waterproof jacket/raincoat, hiking pants, thick socks to protect you against stinging nettles, gloves and long-sleeved tops.
Singita Kataza House provides:Complimentary comfort kits containing items such as sun cream, a sweat towel, tissues, a buff (required by Rwandan parks) and brown sanitary/toilet eco bags. Guests also receive a loaned backpack containing a lunch box, snacks and a water bottle.
Technical trekking gear:The following items for outdoor hiking and wet weather are available in the Gear Room at the main lodge. Guests can borrow these during their stay: • Hiking chaps/gators – worn over shoes to just under the knee, protecting you against stinging nettles. • Gloves, for protection against stinging nettles. • Waterproof jackets with removable fleece inner linings. • Technical quick-dry hiking pants. • A backpack (including a lunchbox) and rain cover. • Trekking poles. Guests can also borrow or purchase locally made and carved poles from porters in Volcanoes
National Park.
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PREPARING FOR YOUR JOURNEY CONTINUED
Health requirements
Malaria:All of Singita’s properties are situated in malaria-risk areas. It is therefore essential that guests consult their medical practitioners regarding anti-malaria requirements prior to travel. Yellow Fever:Yellow Fever certification is required when travelling from, or passing through, yellow fever endemic countries. Kenya and Rwanda are considered to be endemic countries.
PLEASE NOTE: Requirements change from time to time. Although we endeavour to stay updated, Singita cannot be held liable for any incorrect or outdated information and we strongly advise guests to always consult their GP and/or travel clinic regarding the latest requirements prior to departure.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The use of drones is strictly prohibited throughout Rwanda. Luggage is checked on arrival and drones may be confiscated at the discretion of customs officials.
Location of Singita Kruger National Park [A]Singita Kruger National Park is found on the south eastern reaches of the Kruger National Park, on South Africa’s border with Mozambique. Situated on 33,000 acres, this exclusive concession is one of the most incredible territories in the park and is home to exquisite selectionsof flora and fauna in four different eco-zones. This is where you will find Singita Sweni Lodge.
LOCATION Location of Singita Sweni Lodge [B]Resting lightly upon the ground within a 33,000 acre, private concession in the Kruger National Park, on South Africa’s border with Mozambique, Singita Sweni Lodge is beautifully concealed by hundreds of trees and is nestled at the edge of the Sweni River. With idyllic proximity to the river, guests are treated to up-close sightings of an incredible number of wildlife that wander down to drink or wallow in the river below the lodge.
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KILOMETRES
SINGITA PAMUSHANA SINGITA SERENGETI SINGITA SABI SAND & KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
Tarime
Musoma
Mwanza
Shinyanga
Bunda
Karatu
Namanga
Narok
Moshi
Mount Meru
Nairobi
Arusha
K E N Y A
T A N Z A N I A
M A A S A I M A R A N A T I O N A L
R E S E R V E
S E R E N G E T IN A T I O N A L P A R K
S I N G I T A G R U M E T I
S I N G I T A L A M A I
Manyara AirstripArusha Airstrip
Kilimanjaro Airstrip
Ndutu Airstrip
Kusini Airstrip
Seronera AirstripMwanza International Airport
Lobo Airstrip
Sasakwa Airstrip
Kogatende Airstrip
Tarime Airstrip
Lamai Airstrip
Mwiba Lodge
Ngorongoro Crater LodgeLegendary Lodge
Little Chem Chem
Chem Chem Safari Lodge
Seronera
Four Seasons Lodge
Cottars 1920’s Safari Camp
Bateleur Camp
Gira�e Manor
The Norfolk
Mara Plains Camp
Little Governors
Governors CampAngama Mara
Singita Sabora Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Sasakwa LodgeSingita Faru Faru Lodge
Singita Serengeti House
N G O R O N G O R O
K I L I M A N J A R O
A R U S H A
M A N Y A R A
LakeVictoria
Mara River
Grumeti RiverLake
Victoria
LakeEyasi
Lake Manyara
LakeNatron
Mara River
KrugerMpumalangaInternational
Numbi Gate
Shaws Gate
Orpen Gate
Malelane Gate
Newington Gate
Phalaborwa Gate
Paul Kruger Gate
Punda Maria Gate
Crocodile Bridge Gate
Pafuri Gate
GiriyondoBorder Post
Satara
Balule
Skukuza
Tsendze
Malelane
Roodewal
Bateleur
Olifants
Shimuweni
Lower Sabi
Shingwedzi
Berg-en-dal
Pretoriuskop
Mopani
Sirheni
Punda Maria
Singita Ebony LodgeSingita Boulders Lodge
Singita Castleton
Singita Lebombo LodgeSingita Sweni Lodge
L I M P O P ON A T I O N A L P A R K
K R U G E R N A T I O N A L P A R K
K A R I N G A N IG A M E
R E S E R V E
S I N G I T A K R U G E R N A T I O N A L P A R K
M A N Y E L E T I
B A L U L E
S E L A T I
L E T A B A
M A S S I N G I R
M A P U L A N G U E N E
K L A S E R I E
S A B I S A N D
M A K A L A L I
G R E A T E RL E B O M B O
C O N S E R V A N C Y
T I M B A V A T I
K A P A M A
S I N G I T A S A B I S A N D
K R U G E R N A T I O N A L P A R K
M O Z A M B I Q U E
S O U T H A F R I C A
SabieHazyview
Nelspruit
Hoedspruit
Phalaborwa
Graskop
Limpopo River
MassingirDam
Olifants
White River
M O Z A M B I Q U E
Z I M B A B W E
Chiredzi
Bu�alo RangeLonestar AirstripInternational Airport
G O N A R E Z H O UN A T I O N A L P A R K
M A L I L A N G W E W I L D L I F E R E S E R V E
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Skukuza Airport
Eastgate AirportK R U G E R
N A T I O N A L P A R K
K R U G E RN A T I O N A L
P A R K
S I N G I T AS A B I S A N D
Leopard Hills
SkukuzaHazyview
Acornhoek
Hoedspruit
Bushbuckridge
SAVANNA
NOTTENS
SABISABI
LIONSANDS
KIRKMAN’SKAMP
LONDOLOZISABISABI
LONDOLOZI
GALAGO
NKORHODJUMA
DULI
NI
ULUS
ABA
EXET
ERLD
UBE
INYATI
SIMBAMBILI
CHITWACHITWACHITWA
DJUMAELEPHANT
PLAINS
MANYELETI
T I M B A V A T I
K L A S E R I E
K A P A M A
Singita Ebony LodgeSingita Boulders Lodge
Singita Castleton
Camp Jabulani
Rattray's
Mala Mala Sable
Royal Malewane
Cape TownInternational
False Bay
Walker Bay
Table Bay
Cape Town
D A N G E R P O I N T
K O G E L B E R G
K L E I N R I V I E R S B E R G
T A B L EM O U N T A I N
C A P E P O I N T
K I R S T E N B O S C HH O T T E N T O T S
H O L L A N D
R O B B E NI S L A N D
Hout Bay
Simon's Town
Somerset West
Grabouw
Caledon
StanfordHermanus
Gansbaai
Muizenberg
Milnerton
Kleinmond
Camps Bay
Botrivier
Betty’s Bay
Green Point
Gordons Bay
Franschhoek
Paarl
Villiersdorp
Stellenbosch
La Residence
Grootbos
Birkenhead House
Babylonstoren
Delaire Gra� Estate
One&Only
The SiloCape Grace
Ellerman House
SINGITA PAMUSHANA
SABI SAND
SINGITA SERENGETI
SINGITA SABI SAND & KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
CAPE TOWN AND WINELANDS D
B
A
C
Airport
Landing Strip
Park gate
Town
City
Lodges/camp
Singita Lodge/Camp
Road
National Park
Private Game Reserve
Singita Concession
Country Border
Airport
Landing Strip
Park gate
Town
City
Lodges/camp
Singita Lodge/Camp
Road
National Park
Private Game Reserve
Singita Concession
Country Border
Key
Front
D
C
B
A
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LOCATION
RWANDA
UGANDA
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO GAHINGA
MUSANZE
KIGALI (100KM)
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Volcanoes National Park Headquarters
SABYINYO
MGAHINGA GORILLANATIONAL PARK
BISOKE
KARISIMBI
MIKENO
MUHABURA
Singita Kataza House
4 437m
4 507m
3 711m
4 127m
3 645m
3 474m
Location of Singita Volcanoes National Park [A]
Singita Kataza House is set on 178 acres (72 hectares) and shares a 1.2km border with Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda. Relative to the population and the intensive use of land for farming food crops, a 178-acre pocket of land in a country the size of Rwanda is highly prized.
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GETTING TO SINGITAKATAZA HOUSE
International flights arrive at Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali. From there, Singita Kataza House is approximately two and a half hours by road.
Alternatively, helicopter transfers are available from Kigali to the villa.
Please note that guests are required to book and pay for a Driver Guide and vehicle for every day of their stay at Singita Volcanoes National Park to facilitate all activities as well as transfers to and from Kigali. Having a Driver Guide and vehicle ensures flexibility so that guests can plan their days according to preference.
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WEATHER AND TEMPERATURE
Rwanda is situated just south of the equator.Most of the country is situated on a plateau, around 1,500 metres above sea level.Rwanda’s relatively high altitude provides it with cool nights and a pleasant tropicalhighland climate throughout the year,although there is also plenty of rain. The rainfall is often during the night or the early morning hours. Light cloud cover during the day helps to moderate the temperatures, but also occasionally brings light rain showers.
Rwanda’s long rainy season lasts from March to May, when the rain is heavy and persistent. The long dry season is from June to mid- September. October to November is a shorter rainy season; followed by a short dry season from December to February.
The average temperature at Singita Volcanoes National Park is approximately 15°C (59°F) and the humidity can be quite high.
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THE FINER DETAILS
Tariffs at Singita Kataza House include• Luxurious en suite accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, all drinks
(including premium wines, spirits and liqueurs, but excluding French Champagne).• House manager, chef and house staff.• Laundry services.
Tariffs exclude• Telephone calls.• Tourism Development Levy.• French Champagne.• Spa treatments.• Certain special meal requests.• Transport to and from Singita Kataza House.• Any day trips or transfers to and from Singita Kataza House.• Permits for gorilla trekking.
Check-in/check-out times• The lodge is open year-round.• Check-in time: 1pm.• Check-out time: 10am.• Please note that guests wishing to check in before 1pm and/or check out after 10am are
required to book an additional night at the Day Use Rate.
Payment optionsWe accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express cards.
Other T&Cs• There is a minimum stay requirement of two nights year-round.• The minimum age requirement for gorilla-trekking is 15.• Gorilla-trekking permits cost USD 1,500 per person per trek, subject to change without
prior notice. Permits are subject to availability at the time of booking.• If Singita is securing a permit on a guest’s behalf, proof of payment for the permit needs
to be received within 24 hours, and the guest’s passport details no later than 60 days prior to travel.
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With sustainability at its core, Singita Kataza House is in step with Singita’s key focus to create low-impact tourism to help preserve large areas of African wilderness for future generations.
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Tel +27 21 683 3424reservations@singita.comsingita.com
Vimeo: vimeo.com/SingitaFacebook: Facebook.com/singita.gamereservesInstagram: Singita_
Singita lodges and camps across 6 regions in Africa South Africa • Kruger National Park: Singita Lebombo and Sweni Lodges• Sabi Sand: Singita Castleton, Boulders and Ebony LodgesTanzania• Grumeti: Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Sabora Tented Camp, Faru Faru Lodge, Serengeti House and Explore• Lamai: Singita Mara River Tented CampZimbabwe• Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve: Singita Pamushana Lodge and Malilangwe HouseRwanda• Volcanoes National Park: Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House
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