Explore Africa’s Best-Kept Secret on Lake Victoria

​

Welcome to Rubondo Island National Park, a true tropical haven located in the southwest corner of Lake Victoria, Tanzania’s largest lake.
Rubondo is Africa’s largest island national park, covering 457 square kilometers, and stands out as one of Tanzania’s most unique safari destinations — a rare combination of pristine forest, sparkling waters, and untouched wilderness.
Often called “The Galápagos of Lake Victoria”, Rubondo offers incredible biodiversity and peaceful isolation, where the sound of waves replaces city noise and nature thrives undisturbed.

​

Why Visit Rubondo Island National Park

​

• Chimpanzee Sanctuary: Home to a small, semi-habituated population of chimpanzees reintroduced from Europe in the 1960s — a remarkable conservation success story.

• Untamed Wilderness: Encounter elephants, giraffes, hippos, sitatungas (aquatic antelopes), crocodiles, and bushbucks in lush rainforest settings.

• Birdwatching Paradise: More than 300 species of birds, including African grey parrots, fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons.

• Lake Adventures: Enjoy sport fishing for giant Nile perch — some exceeding 100 kg — or relax on scenic boat safaris.

• Untouched Forests: Walk along serene forest trails surrounded by butterflies, orchids, and colorful flora.

• Peaceful Escape: Ideal for travelers seeking solitude, eco-adventure, and connection with nature.

​

Activities on Rubondo Island

​

• Chimpanzee Tracking: Guided walks through tropical forests to observe the reintroduced chimpanzees.

• Bird Watching: Spot over 300 bird species — paradise flycatchers, fish eagles, egrets, and hornbills.

• Boat Safaris: Cruise along Lake Victoria to see hippos, crocodiles, and abundant waterbirds.

• Sport Fishing: Catch and release Nile perch for an unforgettable experience.

• Nature Walks: Guided hikes through rainforest and lakeshore ecosystems.

• Canoeing & Kayaking: Explore hidden coves and quiet bays at your own pace.

• Cultural Visits: Discover nearby fishing communities and experience local life.

​

Getting to Rubondo Island

​

• By Air: Regular flights operate from Arusha, Mwanza, or Serengeti to Rubondo Airstrip (AURB). Approximate flight time: 1.5–2 hours.

• By Boat: Access from Mwanza, Kigoma, or Speke Gulf via private charter.

• By Road: Drive to Mwanza or Nkome, then continue by boat transfer.

Kigoma Eco-Cultural Tourism can arrange full transfers by flight, road, or boat depending on your itinerary.

​

Suggested Itineraries

​

3 Days / 2 Nights – Rubondo Island Adventure

Day 1: Fly from Mwanza or Serengeti to Rubondo Island. Afternoon nature walk.
Day 2: Chimpanzee tracking, birdwatching, and sunset boat safari.
Day 3: Morning canoeing, breakfast, and return flight or boat to Mwanza.

​

4 Days / 3 Nights – Wildlife & Water Experience

Enjoy extended exploration with added fishing and cultural experiences.
Highlights: Chimpanzee tracking, boat safari, fishing, village visit, forest walks, and birdwatching.

​

7 Days / 6 Nights – Ultimate Western Safari

Combine Rubondo Island with Mahale Mountains (chimpanzee trekking) and Katavi National Park (big game viewing) for a complete western Tanzania adventure.

​

Rubondo Island Safari Price Guide (2025)

All prices are per person based on double occupancy. Custom tours available.

​

Budget Package – 3 Days

• Accommodation: Basic eco-lodge or guesthouse

• Price: USD 950 – 1,100

• Includes: Park fees, guide, boat safaris, meals.

​

Mid-Range Package – 4 Days

• Accommodation: Rubondo Island Camp or Bandas

• Price: USD 1,400 – 1,900

• Includes: Chimpanzee tracking, birdwatching, full-board meals

​

Luxury Package – 4–5 Days

• Accommodation: Rubondo Island Camp (Asilia Africa)

• Price: USD 2,200 – 3,200

• Includes: Scenic flights, private guide, fishing, and boat tours

​

Rates include park fees, accommodation, meals, transfers within the park, and guided activities.
Excludes flights from Arusha/Mwanza, visa, tips, and personal expenses.

​

Included in All Packages

​

• Park entrance and conservation fees

• All guided activities (game drives, walks, boating)

• Professional English-speaking guide

• Accommodation and full-board meals

• Bottled water during excursions

• Return boat transfers from Nkome or Mwanza

​

Not Included:

​

• Domestic and international flights

• Tips and travel insurance

• Alcoholic beverages

• Optional activities (e.g., fishing permits)

​

Best Time to Visit Rubondo Island

​

• Dry Season (June – October): Best time for chimp tracking, nature walks, and boat safaris.

• Green Season (November – May): Lush scenery, excellent birdwatching, and fewer visitors.

​

The park is open year-round, and each season offers its own unique atmosphere and photographic opportunities.

​

Where to Stay

​

• Rubondo Island Camp (Asilia Africa): Luxury lodge with lake views, pool, and guided excursions.

• Park Bandas: Budget-friendly accommodation managed by TANAPA, ideal for local and independent travelers.

• Private Tented Camps: Available upon special request for groups or research expeditions.

​

Why Choose Rubondo Island

​

• Tanzania’s only national park located entirely on a lake island

• Rare opportunity to observe chimpanzees and aquatic wildlife in one place

• Peaceful, uncrowded destination perfect for honeymooners and nature enthusiasts

• Strong commitment to conservation and eco-tourism initiatives

​

Book Your Rubondo Adventure

​

Step into Tanzania’s secret wilderness — where rainforest meets freshwater and wildlife roams freely.
Let Kigoma Eco-Cultural Tourism craft your perfect island safari to Rubondo and beyond.
Contact us today to customize your itinerary and receive your personalized quote.