Rubondo Island lies in the southwest of Lake Victoria and is protected, with smaller islands around it, as a national park of about 450 km². Most of it is forest, and there are no roads for safari traffic. Few visitors come, which is part of its appeal.
Chimpanzees
In the 1960s, chimpanzees rescued from zoos in Europe were released on Rubondo. Their descendants now live wild on the island, and some groups have been habituated for visitors. Tracking is less predictable than at Mahale or Gombe, but it is a rare chance to see chimps on an island. Read about chimpanzees in Tanzania.
Other wildlife
- Sitatunga, a shy swamp antelope, often seen in the reeds.
- Hippos and crocodiles along the shore.
- Elephants and giraffes, introduced decades ago.
- Birds, including a very high density of fish eagles. Read about birding on Lake Victoria.
Activities
- Chimpanzee tracking with a ranger
- Forest walks
- Boat safaris along the shore
- Sport fishing for Nile perch, with permits
When to go
June to August and December to February are driest. The island is open all year.
Getting there
Light aircraft fly to the island’s airstrip, sometimes on routes linking the western Serengeti. Boats also cross from the mainland. Combine it with the Serengeti’s western corridor on a longer trip such as our Northern Grand.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Chimpanzees released in the 1960s now live wild on the island, and some groups are habituated for visitors.
A shy, swamp-dwelling antelope with long splayed hooves, common on Rubondo.
By light aircraft to the island’s airstrip or by boat from the mainland.
