Rubondo Island National Park

A Pristine Safari Paradise in Lake Victoria

Discover Rubondo’s Untamed Beauty

Rubondo Island National Park, spanning 456 km² in Lake Victoria, is a secluded haven of equatorial rainforest and diverse wildlife. Known for habituated chimpanzees, rare sitatunga antelopes, and over 300 bird species, it offers an exclusive safari experience.

Serengeti Wonders Limited crafts tailored Rubondo tours, blending adventure and serenity for an unforgettable escape.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Embark on a chimpanzee trekking adventure in Rubondo’s rainforest, tracking over 40 habituated chimpanzees introduced in the 1960s. Guided by expert trackers, enjoy intimate encounters with these playful primates.

Our small-group tours ensure a high success rate for unforgettable sightings.

Wildlife and Birdwatching

Spot elusive sitatunga antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, and elephants, alongside over 300 bird species like fish eagles and malachite kingfishers. December to February is ideal for migratory birds.

Our guided tours highlight Rubondo’s vibrant ecosystems for wildlife and birdwatching enthusiasts.

Activities on Rubondo Island

Fishing Safaris

Cast for tilapia and massive Nile perch in Lake Victoria, with expert guides and catch-and-release options for thrilling fishing adventures.

Boating Safaris

Glide across Lake Victoria at sunrise or sunset, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds along Rubondo’s lush coastline.

Nature Walks

Explore ancient forests with orchids and butterflies, learning about Rubondo’s conservation history and unique flora.

Cultural Visits

Visit nearby fishing villages to connect with local communities, enriching your safari with cultural insights.

From chimpanzee trekking to cultural immersion, Serengeti Wonders Limited tailors Rubondo activities for every adventurer.

Accommodation Options

Stay in intimate lake-view cottages with eco-friendly designs or budget-friendly bandas, both offering comfort amidst nature. Limited spaces ensure an exclusive experience.

Serengeti Wonders Limited secures your ideal lodging for a seamless Rubondo safari getaway.

Best Time to Visit and Conservation

Best Time to Visit: June–October is ideal for chimpanzee trekking and wildlife safaris with dry trails. December–February excels for birdwatching and fishing, while March–May and October–December offer lush scenery and quieter trails.

Conservation: Established in 1977, Rubondo protects chimpanzees introduced in the 1960s and supports local fishing villages through sustainable tourism.

Serengeti Wonders Limited designs eco-conscious tours to preserve Rubondo’s pristine ecosystems.

How to Get to Rubondo

By Air

Fly to Mwanza (150 km away) from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Zanzibar, then take a charter flight to Rubondo’s airstrip.

By Boat

Depart from Mwanza on a 2-3 hour boat ride or a private speedboat, or combine road travel from Bukoba/Geita with a short boat trip.

Serengeti Wonders Limited arranges seamless transfers, making your journey to Rubondo an adventure in itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

When’s the best time for a Rubondo safari? June–October for wildlife and chimpanzee trekking; December–February for birdwatching.

How do I travel to Rubondo? Fly to Mwanza, then take a charter flight or boat, all arranged by our team.

What lodging options exist? Eco-friendly cottages or budget bandas, both exclusive and nature-immersed.

Are chimpanzee sightings guaranteed? High success rates with expert trackers, though nature varies.

What should I pack? Light clothes, binoculars, camera, and repellent; we provide a full list.

Featured Rubondo Adventures

Explore Rubondo with our curated packages, blending wildlife, water, and cultural experiences.

Rubondo Chimpanzee Safari

A 3-day tour with chimpanzee trekking, nature walks, and boating safaris, perfect for primate enthusiasts.

Rubondo Birdwatching and Fishing Tour

A 4-day adventure focusing on 300+ bird species and Nile perch fishing, with boating and village visits.

Rubondo and Serengeti Safari

A 6-day journey combining Rubondo’s island paradise with Serengeti’s Great Migration.