Travel Guide Tanzania: Rubondo Island Camp

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Name: The word “Rubondo” is derived from the language of the Zinza people, who historically inhabited the region of Rubondo Island Camp.

Founding year: Rubondo National Park was officially established as a national park in 1977, Rubondo Island Camp opened in July 2023.

Location: Rubondo Island Camp is set on the shores of the forested Rubondo National Park, one of Africa’s largest island national parks, in the southwest corner of Lake Victoria. around 150km from the Tanzanian mainland, Rubondo Island Camp is remote, tranquil and uncrowded wilderness experience.

Size: Rubondo Island National Park spans roughly 457 square kilometres and includes the main Rubondo Island along with 11 smaller surrounding islets.

Rubondo Island, the largest island in Rubondo Island National Park, covers roughly 456-square-kilometers. Rubondo Island Camp is located on the main island’s shoreline, directly facing the calm waters of Lake Victoria, surrounded by the lively forest. The secluded and serene environment, makes Rubondo Island Camp an ideal base for wildlife exploration and immersion.

Highlights

• Observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat
• Experience true, remote wilderness, far from mass tourism
• Explore a unique habitat within Tanzania’s safari circuit
• Discover a birdwatcher’s paradise with diverse species
• Enjoy boat excursions on Lake Victoria for a fresh perspective
• Blend adventure and relaxation at the serene Rubondo Island Camp

Fauna at Rubondo Island

At the heart of Rubondo Island National Park, Rubondo Island Camp is an ideal base for wildlife observation and appreciation. Known as a sanctuary for chimpanzees, elephants, and giraffes, originally introduced in the 1960s. Chimpanzees traverse through the forest, elephants wander through dense woodlands, hippos and crocodiles dominate the lake’s edge.

The wide range of habitats supports a wide range of birdlife, from water-dependent species such as herons and fish eagles, to elusive woodland-based species such as the blue-breasted kingfisher.

Flora of Rubondo Island

Rubondo Island supports a rich and diverse array of plant life, dominated by dense tropical and riverine forests that cover most of the main island and its surrounding islets. The forests feature towering mahogany, fig, and palm trees, interspersed with lush undergrowth.

Sandy beaches roll into papyrus swamps, providing a wide range of habitats for aquatic life and bird species. This varied vegetation not only creates a striking landscape but also supports the park’s unique wildlife.

Activities on Rubondo Island

Rubondo Island Camp offers a variety of activities designed to showcase the park’s wildlife and landscapes:

• Chimpanzee Trekking: Guided treks through dense tropical forests allow guests to observe primate social behaviour in their natural, undisturbed habitat.
• Boat Excursions: Explore the endless waters of Lake Victoria, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and abundant waterbirds while enjoying scenic views of the island’s sandy beaches.
• Birdwatching & Nature Walks: Discover the incredible diversity of Rubondo’s birdlife and flora while experiencing the island’s serene atmosphere.

Guests enjoy a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in one of Africa’s most remote and extraordinary landscapes.

Accommodation Asilia - Rubondo Island Camp

Rubondo Island Camp by Asilia Africa defines barefoot luxury. Spacious, open suites are tucked against the forest edge, each with private verandas overlooking Lake Victoria. Thoughtful design, en-suite bathrooms with hot showers, plush beds, and neutral safari-inspired interiors create a refined yet relaxed atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness.

Between activities, guests can unwind in the infinity pool, enjoy freshly prepared cuisine in the open-air dining area, or sip sundowners on the beach as the lake glows at sunset. Dining features flavourful meals combining Western cuisine with Tanzanian inspiration. Reliable electricity and Wi-Fi ensure comfort without disrupting the immersive wilderness experience.

Every stay at Rubondo Island Camp supports conservation initiatives, allowing guests to contribute directly to protecting this unique ecosystem while enjoying an unforgettable safari experience.

Conservation on site

Rubondo Island Camp is committed to preserving the delicate ecosystems of Rubondo Island through responsible tourism, anti-poaching support, and species monitoring programs.

The camp works closely with local communities and park authorities, employing and empowering local people to foster stewardship and conservation education. By balancing eco-tourism with immersive exploration, Rubondo Island Camp ensures that one of Tanzania’s most extraordinary wildlife habitats is protected for generations to come.