Singita Kwitonda Lodge has been ranked the second-best luxury hotel in the world in the 2026 edition of “The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth.” The ranking was released on July 23 by Robb Report, an American luxury lifestyle publication known for its coverage and rankings of high-end travel, hospitality, and luxury experiences. The lodge, located on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in Kinigi, Musanze District, was recognised for its exclusive gorilla trekking experience and its integration with the surrounding natural environment. ALSO READ: Rwandan hotel voted among best in the world According to the magazine, Singita Kwitonda is the only place in Rwanda where guests can begin the day with a private gorilla trek. The publication highlighted the lodge’s eight-suite design, indoor-outdoor fireplaces, locally made hand-fired brickwork and heated plunge pools. The report also mentioned Kataza House, a four-bedroom villa within the property, describing it as a self-contained safari lodge experience. The ranking was compiled using recommendations from 24 travel experts who specialise in luxury travel. The experts evaluated hotels, resorts, safari camps and lodges based on their service, experiences and overall excellence in hospitality. The top-ranked luxury hotel was Shinta Mani Mustang in Nepal, while Hope Lodge in Scotland, UK placed third. Other hotels in the top 10 included Park Hyatt Tokyo in Japan at fourth, Shakti Prana in India at fifth, Collegio alla Querce in Italy at sixth, Claridge’s in the UK at seventh, Le Bristol Paris in France at eighth, Islas Secas in Panama at ninth, and Casa Bonavita in Malta at tenth. Other African hotels featured in the ranking included Kazazian Arax on the Nile River in Egypt, Ol Jogi in Kenya, Olinto Atlas Mountain Retreat and Spa in Morocco, La Mamounia in Morocco, Kuganha in the Western Cape, South Africa, and Tawana Botswana.
