The unique Rubondo Island National Park is an ideal addition to any Tanzania safari, offering fascinating game-viewing in alternative terrain to Africa’s great plains. This is an area of immense ecological importance including primary lowland Congolese forest and it supports a variety of habitats with dense forests, papyrus swamps, open woodland and savannah. Activities include game-viewing, guided forest walks, chimpanzee treks, birding, sustainable fishing and canoe excursions.
Rubondo Island is set on the south-western corner of Lake Victoria – the second largest lake in the world. The 450 km2 National Park is the largest island National Park in Africa, and an important breeding ground for both migratory birds and fish species (especially Tilapia and Nile perch). It is one of the few areas of the Lake where the environment is well protected and preserved.
Within the diverse habitats is a broad range of animals such as sitatunga, bushbucks, velvet monkeys, genet cats, spotted necked otters, hippopotamus and crocodiles, chimpanzees, elephants, giraffes, black and white colubus monkeys, bush pigs and suni.
The park is renowned for its variety of migratory birds from many different parts of the world. Spectacular colorful species frequent the indigenous forest, there are many types of water bird and a high density of African fish eagles and African grey parrots.
In addition to the wildlife attractions there are fascinating cultural sites such as Ntungamirwe and Maji Matakatifu which enable visitors to learn about the lives of the natives that once resided in the area.
The island is the perfect natural hideaway to add to the end of an East African adventure, and the ideal place to relax due to the beautiful beaches and unrivalled views of sunrises and sunsets.
Rubondo Island Camp is currently the only lodge within the park and is a high-quality property including many varied activities and excursions. Flights to the Island operate from / to Arusha or Dar es Salaam, with connections to and from many of Tanzania’s other parks and reserves including the Serengeti.
Accommodation in Rubondo Island National Park:
