sustainability is key to the future of preserving and protecting … · 2020-01-27 ·...

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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.



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.


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.


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.


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

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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

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Country Border

Airport

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Town

City

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Singita Lodge/Camp

Road

National Park

Private Game Reserve

Singita Concession

Country Border

Key

Front

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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.


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.


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.


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.


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 [email protected]

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

sustainability is key to the future of preserving and protecting … · 2020-01-27 ·...

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