Rubondo Island
Tucked away in the southwestern reaches of Lake Victoria, Rubondo Island is an untouched paradise where lush forests meet tranquil beaches.
Spanning 93 square miles (240 square kilometers), this secluded sanctuary offers a rare blend of adventure and serenity, perfect for those looking to escape the ordinary.
Beyond its stunning landscapes, Rubondo is unlike any other safari destination. The island provides a protected refuge for a small group of chimpanzees, making it one of the few places in the world where these primates thrive in the wild.
Visitors may also encounter elephants wading along the shore, hippos basking in the shallows, and giraffes moving gracefully through the dense greenery. Other island inhabitants include crocodiles, bushbucks, marshbucks, otters, and a variety of monkeys—from the playful Vervet to the striking black-and-white colobus. Keep an eye out for the elusive dik-dik, genet, and marsh mongoose, which occasionally make an appearance.
For birdwatchers, Rubondo is pure magic. With nearly 430 recorded species, the island is a haven for colorful bee-eaters, soaring fish eagles, majestic storks, elegant egrets, and elusive ibises. Kingfishers dive into the lake’s shimmering waters, while hornbills and flycatchers bring the treetops to life with their calls.
Whether you come for the wildlife, the solitude, or the sheer beauty of an unspoiled landscape, Rubondo Island offers an experience that feels worlds away from the usual safari circuit.
Features & Wildlife Species
AREA ACTIVITIES
- Chimp trekking and primate safaris.
- Game viewing.
- Bird watching.
- Fishing.
- Boat tours.
- Forest walks.
- Relaxing on sandy lakeshore beaches.
WHEN TO VISIT
The best time to visit Rubondo Island is between June to October, Mid-December to February. Mid-November to early December can also be good time depending on the intensity of the rain.
WHAT TO SEE
- Small groups of chimpanzees.
- Different species of monkeys.
- Giraffes, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, bushbucks and otters, dikdiks, marsh mongoose among others.
- Lush forest, open woodland to papyrus marshlands.
- Lake Victoria with sandy lakeshore beaches.
HOW TO GET THERE
Flight: the easiest way to reach Rubondo is flying directly from the Serengeti to the island, which takes about 40min. Rubondo can also be accessed by taking a scheduled flight from Mwanza.
