National Parks | TANZANIA
Rubondo Island National Park in Tanzania
Rubondo Island is a remote and luxurious nature paradise, ideal for a unique and unforgettable off-the-beaten-path experience. With abundant wildlife and elegant scenery, we’re honored to help make your trip unforgettable.
Kayaking
Fishing
Chimpanzee trekking
Game drive
Kayaking
Fishing
Chimpanzee trekking
Everything you need to know:
Rubondo Island is an undiscovered safari destination in Tanzania that prioritizes sustainable tourism practices. The national park hosts captive-born chimpanzees, elephants, giraffes, grey parrots, and Suni antelope. Visitors can experience the unspoiled natural environment and endangered wildlife.
Where is the reserve located?
Ngorongoro District is located in the Crater Highlands of Tanzania, and falls within the ecological confines of the Serengeti. With limited human settlement primarily occupied by the Maasai community, this region boasts of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area – a legally protected sanctuary with stunning attractions such as short-grass plains, the Ngorongoro Highlands, and historically significant extinct volcanoes.
Regarded as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this area is of utmost importance in preserving the natural ecological balance of the surrounding areas and should be treated with utmost care and respect.
About the reserve
What type of wildlife will we see?
Rubondo Island National Park is an extraordinary destination for those looking to experience the unspoiled beauty of the wilderness. Despite its limited size, the park boasts an impressive array of large mammals, including the iconic chimpanzee, as well as hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and otters. Visitors may also be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of the elusive sitatunga antelope, which thrive in the island’s semi-aquatic habitat.
At nightfall, civets and genets can sometimes be observed as they emerge from hiding. The park’s birdlife is equally awe-inspiring, offering more than 300 species such as the pied kingfisher, marabou stork, darter, and fish eagle. Rubondo Island National Park is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those looking for an unforgettable experience in a pristine setting.
Top experiences to enjoy at Rubondo Island National Park
The serene island provides an array of engaging activities that prioritize the conscientious exploration of its captivating and fragile ecosystem.
These activities are led by experienced and well-informed guides, and include educational treks through the forest and chimpanzee spotting, in addition to observing wildlife from a boat and genuine fishing opportunities in Lake Victoria. For those interested in fishing, a half-day rental is available, allowing you to experience the thrill of casting a line and potentially catching dinner (or confidently releasing your catch back into the lake if you choose).
When to visit
The island is highly recommended for visitation during the dry season, spanning from June to October. For enthusiasts of bird watching, a more favorable period to visit would be between December and February, as this is when a diverse range of migratory bird species flock to the area.
Access to the park is primarily facilitated via plane from mainland Tanzania (and Rwanda). The air travel offers a delightful experience, resembling that of the popular Jurassic Park movie, while simultaneously showcasing the magnificence of Lake Victoria in all its splendor to visitors.