Rubondo Island

Africa's Largest Island National Park

Zanzibar might be the most well-known of all the Tanzania islands, but Rubondo Island is a hidden gem offering an exclusive private oasis experience. Located in southwest Lake Victoria, Rubondo Island is relatively untouched by tourism and is ripe for exploration for travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

In the late 1960s, Rubondo Island became a national park, transforming into a sanctuary for a variety of species (sitatunga antelope, elephant and giraffe), including chimpanzees – which the island is famous for. Today, the 237 square-kilometre (92 square-mile) area is Africa's largest island national park, comprising 11 small islets that are dotted with dense equatorial forest and sprinkled with open grassland, as well as papyrus swamps and waterways.

What adds to Rubondo Island National Park's exclusivity is Rubondo Island Camp – the only place to stay in the entire region! Being the only accommodation in this unspoilt paradise, you'll have the feeling of complete seclusion and privacy in a wildlife-rich landscape.

1. Trek Through Tropical Rainforest in Search of Chimpanzees

When Rubondo Island first became a designated national park, only 17 chimpanzees were introduced over the course of 4 years into the area. Today, the population stands at approximately 60 chimps, making it one of the most successful wild chimpanzee colonies in Africa.

The Rubondo Island Chimpanzee Habituation Experience is a unique offering that allows guests to enjoy a guided trek through the tropical rainforests of Rubondo to find these boisterous creatures. Although sightings aren't guaranteed, there is a good chance that you'll get to observe these primates within close proximity for 30 minutes or more.

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2. Incredible Wildlife Sightings on Game Drives Through the Forest

This pristine slice of paradise is a haven for wildlife, making it a fantastic region to enjoy game drives. Keep your eye out for chimpanzees, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, antelope, civets, genets, hippos, crocodiles and even otters. For the avid birder, this group of Lake Victoria islands are home to over 300 species, including pied kingfishers, fish eagles and marabou storks. While anglers can delight in catch-and-release fishing for the famous Nile perch.

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3. Exceptional Boating & Canoeing Safaris

Classic game drives in an open-sided 4×4 safari vehicle are a thrilling experience, but there's more than one way to encounter the wildlife of Rubondo Island. The papyrus swamps and waterways of the national park are great for boating and canoeing safaris. Take to the water of Lake Victoria to enjoy game-watching from a unique perspective.

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4. Take the Road Less Travelled and Explore a Hidden Gem

Although Rubondo Island is not as well-known as other Tanzania islands, like Zanzibar, this is the region's strong point. The national park is an unspoilt nirvana of lush tropical rainforests, winding waterways and majestic wildlife. And being in a remote part of the East African country means that this gem of a destination is off the beaten track – which is just a fancy way of saying that you'll enjoy a getaway free from the crowds. Rubondo Island Camp is the only accommodation in the national park. With only a handful of rooms available, you'll feel like you have the island all to yourself.

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5. Easy Add On

These Lake Victoria islands have their own airstrip, making it easily accessible from a number of destinations. This means that it can easily be combined with other great Tanzania destinations, like the Serengeti, Zanzibar and Arusha. Direct flights from Kigali are also available, making it possible to combine chimp trekking with an epic gorilla tracking adventure in Rwanda.

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Visiting Rubondo Island National Park From January to March

January, February and March fall within Rubondo Island's green season. This time of year is also known as the wet season, as the region sees majority of its annual precipitation during this period. The national park is particularly lush throughout these months, surrounding you with beautiful greenery and tropical rainforests.

These months provide the perfect conditions for avid birders to enjoy the arrival of the migrant flocks. With a variety of over 300 different bird species, it's not surprising that many people have dubbed this East African gem the ‘Bird Island'. The cherry on top is that visitors can relish in birding either on land or on boat trips.

Visiting Rubondo Island National Park in April & May

April and May are Rubondo Island's rainiest months of the year, when the area experiences its long rains. Expect downpours and showers interspersed with sunny spells, all set against warm temperatures. This is usually when Rubondo Island and Tanzania as a whole goes through a quieter tourism season – which, ironically, makes it a fantastic time to visit. When travelling to the region during this time, you'll enjoy smaller crowds, lower prices, impeccable birding, and a beautiful change in landscape.

Travelling to Rubondo Island National Park During June to October

June to October is Rubondo Island's dry season – which is widely regarded as the best time to visit the region. This is because vegetation dries out, making it easier to spot game from a safari vehicle or boat as they wander through the savanna and rainforests of the island. It is also the optimal time to enjoy the many walking trails around the area- they are much easier to navigate when dry.

Visiting Rubondo Island National Park During November & December

Although November and December still fall within Rubondo Island's wet season, it is relatively light and experiences what is known as the short rains. Expect the odd afternoon shower here and there. Game viewing is still exceptional, and the conditions are primed to fully enjoy a luxury adventure on Rubondo Island.

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