June 1 – 6, 2021
An exciting 5-night experience to view the Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda while staying at Singita’s brand new Kwitonda Lodge.
The rate is $8,995.00 per person, plus trekking permit costs of: $1,500.00 per person, per day.
“Being personally in the presence of these majestic Mountain Gorillas and having the opportunity to witness their natural animal behavior in their own environment is a particularly powerful experience that will settle deeply in your soul.” – Ryan Hilton
“For a few decades now, I have heard from travelers who have personally experienced being in the presence of these great Apes. All show a lot of excitement when telling me about how impressive it was. In fact, they all say that it is the most moving travel experience and easily the most amazing wildlife encounter they have ever had and I am really looking forward to feeling the power and awe for myself.” – Malaka Hilton
Human-like Hands
June 1, 2021 – Upon arrival into Kigali, Rwanda you will be greeted, welcomed and transferred to the Kigali Hotel for an overnight stay. This evening, meet your fellow travelers for a welcome drink and review the plans and times for tomorrow in detail. Dinner this evening is at your leisure.
June 2, 2021 – After breakfast, we depart Kigali by road for the town of Kinigi and Volcanoes National Park. The leisurely drive takes us through a gorgeous African landscape winding past many rural villages offering us a taste of local life. Upon arrival at Singita Kwitonda Lodge, the team will provide an orientation to this exceptional lodge. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to settle into our accommodations and prepare for our first opportunity to search for & witness the Mountain Gorillas tomorrow.
Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Set in Rwanda’s northwestern reaches, right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, Singita Kwitonda Lodge’s unparalleled position puts life-changing gorilla-trekking experiences within easy reach.
Conservation Room
In response to its exquisite location, each of the lodge’s eight luxurious suites features a private heated plunge pool, in-and outdoor fireplaces and large timber-framed windows that welcome the breathtaking scenery and volcano views inside. Elements like woven ceilings and hand-fired terracotta brickwork crafted by local artisans highlight the authentic East African appeal of this remarkable lodge.
Suite interior showing sitting area
Suite interior showing bedroom
Suite interior showing fireplace and pool
Further raising the bar on sustainable luxury ecotourism, Kwitonda’s farm-to-table food journey celebrates Rwandese cuisine and fresh produce from the on-site garden. The Akarabo Nursery is a fundamental part of Singita’s ambitious undertaking to contribute to the long-term conservation of endangered mountain gorillas by increasing their habitat through reforestation.
Always fresh & flavorful dishes
June 3, 2021 – Awake before sunrise to indulge in a fresh cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast – ideal fuel for the day ahead, trekking to the Mountain Gorillas. A short drive from Kwitonda Lodge positions us at Volcanoes National Park, where our route assignments & instruction are given. All rules & restrictions will be explained thoroughly, as safety & viewing comfort is a top priority while visiting these animals in their natural environment.
Our day begins at the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters for route assignments.
The trek to locate and observe these majestic gorillas
With an average elevation of approximately 8,500 ft, we can expect the air to be thin and the conditions under foot to be muddy and challenging. The length of your walk/hike to the animals depends on the gorilla family to which you are assigned, as well their location on the volcanoes. There is no rush however, as we have the entire day to locate the gorillas and enjoy our one hour alongside them. Your trekking group will always move cautiously, carefully, and at a pace that is suitable for all participants.
One hour with the gorillas will show us incredible animal behavior from each family member.
In the afternoon, we will return to Singita Kwitonda Lodge to reflect & reminisce on our awe-inspiring experience with the gorillas on the volcanoes. After a sweaty, muddy day, we will return to our rooms to freshen up & prepare our gear for the second trek tomorrow. We will then enjoy a delicious dinner, followed by a relaxing evening around the fire, listening to our fellow travelers’ stories. A well-earned good night’s rest is in order!
Fresh & flavorful dishes
Singita Kwitonda Lodge common areas
June 4, 2021 – Our day starts early once again and after a fueling breakfast of choice, we will return to the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters for our route assignments for the day. Today, we will aim for different gorilla families than we observed yesterday, to ensure diversity in your experience. The families will be determined that morning, and the assignments will be guided by our interest, ability, and where the animals were last seen.
Breakfast of your choice and the route for the day.
Preparing to enter the natural forest foliage
Mountain Gorilla social groups
After an exhilarating trek and another moving encounter with the Mountain Gorillas, we return to Singita Kwitonda Lodge with the remainder of the day at your leisure to relax and reflect. These comfortable surroundings offer the perfect setting to unwind and absorb the profound experience you’ve enjoyed as it settles into your memory. Closing out the day, you will hopefully find yourself fireside, as you prepare for a peaceful rest.
A perfect place to rest your head after two busy days
June 5, 2021 – This morning, enjoy a luxurious sleep-in and breakfast before saying goodbye to Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Volcanoes National Park. We will have a leisurely, scenic drive through this gorgeous ‘land of a thousand hills’ back to Kigali for overnight.
Our scenic route through towns and villages across rolling hills
June 6, 2021 – Today, we travel by vehicle to the Kigali International Airport for check-in to our departing international flights (individual flight times depending on destination).
Rate: $8,995.00 per person sharing plus:
2 days of National Park Gorilla Viewing Permits at $1,500.00 per person, per day
Additional Inclusions:
- All road transfers and touring throughout the journey
- 2-Nights of Accommodation at Kigali Serena, Bed & Breakfast
- 3-Night Accommodation at Singita Kwitonda Lodge, All Inclusive
Call Ryan Hilton or Michael Distler at 1.941.951.1801 and enter ext. 100 for Michael or 107 for Ryan to secure your space on this departure today!
PLEASE NOTE:
- All payments made to or on behalf of Admiral Travel are non-refundable unless stated otherwise
- Founder’s Journey will always be priced at or below published rates, but never higher.
- Travel with like-minded individuals on these exclusive departures.
- Enjoy a welcome cocktail party to meet your fellow travelers.
- A hosted dinner will be offered during one night of the trip with the Hiltons.
- On many occasions, optional shore events are offered as an option that only our group is invited to join.
- Special global relationships that the Hiltons have formed over the years will allow you privileged access opportunities.
- Trips are offered well in advance to give ample time for your future planning.
- Minimum numbers must be met in order for the Hiltons to host the journey.
- The Hiltons reserve the right to adjust the duration of their participation should any schedule conflicts arise.