Rubondo Island national park

Rubondo Island national park

Rubondo Island national park has a size of 240 km². It is only one of two Tanzanian national parks located on an island in Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest lake. It is located in the southwest corner of the lake. Rubondo became a game reserve in 1965, to provide a sanctuary for animals. Tanzania gazetted Rubondo in 1977 as a national park. It is uninhabited and consequently 90% of the island remains forest today. With nine smaller islands under its wing, Rubondo also protects precious fish breeding grounds.

The habitat of Rubondo Island is mixed evergreen and semi-deciduous forest, which covers about 80% of the island’s surface area, hosting a variety of common species. The eastern lakeshore is characterized by rocky areas and sandy beaches whilst the western shore supports extensive papyrus swamps, lined with date palms.

Rubondo is home to a surprising number of large animals. Elephant, giraffe, bushbuck, Bush buck, Chimpanzee, hippo and crocodile. Except the wildlife viewing, guests can also embark on a variety of other activities that promote eco-sensitivity.

The park hosts a diverse number of birds. With 300 endemic and migratory bird species, Rubondo Island is an ornithologist’s dream. The most common species are African darters, egrets, pied kingfisher, the high-pitched screeches and African grey parrot. Rubondo also holds a very high concentration of fish eagles.

Activities done at Rubondo Island National Park

Fishing safari

Rubondo Island National Park is equipped with a variety of fishing techniques – including; trolling, spinning live and dead bait as well as fly-fishing. Anglers from around the world travel to this Island for the opportunity to reel in a Nile perch, one of Africa’s biggest and most sought-after freshwater fish. However, Rubondo Island practices and supports a strict ‘catch and release policy’. Additional charges and permits may apply.

Game drive

Rubondo Island boasts a number of the indigenous species such as hippo, bushbuck, vervet, sitatunga, crocodiles, elephants, chimpanzee, giraffe, black and white colobus monkeys, suni and grey parrots, buffalos, bushpig, hyrax, warthog and large spotted genet cat. During your game drive – expect to spot this listed wildlife.

Bird watching

East Africa birdlife is rich and diverse, with over 1,000 species in Tanzania and Kenya together. Approximately over 200 species of indigenous and migrant birds which can be observed either breeding or pass through the National Park. The Island has an abundance of herons, storks, ibises, egrets, cormorants, kingfishers and birds of prey. However, it is believed that the park has the highest density of fish eagles in the world.

Boating and Canoeing safari

Guided canoe trips offer a different perspective of the Island and across the quiet inlets as well as covers places that can’t be reached on foot. Paddle yourself or be paddled by a guide as you trace the coast – spotted wildlife both aquatic and terrestrial. However, explore the different channels and lakes of the Rufiji River – surrounded by hippos.

Chimpanzee trek

The chimpanzee were introduced as the first ever attempt to rehabilitate captive chimpanzees back into a wild environment. Their survival to this day remains a testament to the early pioneers who introduced them here half a century ago. However, the chimpanzees are certainly one of the island’s most attractive draws to visitors.

When to go to Rubondo Island National Park

April and May are Rubondo Island’s rainiest months of the year, when the area experiences its long rains. Expect downpours and a shower 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.

Where to stay in Rubondo Park

Rubondo Island Camp is the only suitable tourist accommodation in Rubondo Island National Park. This very comfortable deluxe Safari Tier 2 camp features eight lakeside cottages and a tree house, and you enjoy the utmost privacy as the cottages are spaced between 30 and 65 feet apart. Inside you find a homely atmosphere with all of the necessary modern conveniences for your accommodating safari in Eastern Africa, such as large comfortable beds, lighting and full bathrooms with rain shower, flush toilet, running water and wash basin.

Each cottage sits on the shores of Lake Victoria and your private shaded veranda with a sitting area is perfect for spending your days napping, writing in your journal or watching the grazing and feathered wildlife at the lake.

AfricanMecca is a camp located at Rubondo Island Park, offering a lakeside stay for families. The camp staff provides excellent service, offering activities like fishing, dhow sailing, and bird watching. Families can also enjoy massages and generators for power.

TANAPA, located at Rubondo Island Camp, offers a dining area with stunning views of the bay, serving both local and international dishes. The camp kitchen prepares delicious meals, while the lounge provides a relaxing space for guests to relax. TANAPA also provides activities for backpackers and students, including local and imported wines, beers, and spirits, and limited accommodation options.