Visit Rubondo
Explore Africa’s Largest Island National Park
Rubondo National Park, located on an island in Lake Victoria, became a game reserve in 1965 and a national park in 1977. The national park features rich biodiversity amid mixed evergreen and semi-deciduous forest.
The park is home to elephants, chimpanzees, hippos, bushbuck, giraffes, sitatunga antelope, buffalos, warthogs, otters, civets, vervet monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, and crocodiles, among others. The national park is home to a wide variety of bird species. The island has released captive chimpanzees in rehabilitation into the wild. Common birds to spot in the park include African darters, pied kingfishers, egrets, common cormorants, African grey parrots, open-billed storks, fish eagles, and high-pitched screeches. Visit the cultural sites like Solo, Maji Matakatifu, and Altare on the island. Rubondo is an ideal location to experience forest and water safari activities.
Total Area
456.8 km²
Elevation
1,134 - 1,486 m
Classic Experiences
What to Do in Rubondo Island Park
Game Drive
Go on a forest safari through the savannahs, woodlands, and lush green forests on the island and watch the wilds.
Wildlife Safari
Guided Tour
Rich Biodiversity
Chimpanzee Trekking
Trek along the hilly contours of the national park and watch chimpanzees move through their natural habitat.
Trek and Observe
Chimpanzee Tracking
Scenic View
Birdwatching
The island park, home to more than 200 bird species, including both indigenous and migratory birds, is a birdwatchers’ haven.
200+ Bird Species
Birdwatching Safari
Native and Migratory Birds
Sport Fishing
Enjoy catch and release fishing in Lake Victoria. The lake is home to fish species like catfish, Nile perch, and tilapia.
Largest Freshwater Lake
Catch-and-release Fishing
Spot Fishes in the Lake
Boat Safari
Experience a guided boating safari along the waters of Lake Victoria or go for a canoe ride. Watch wildlife and bird species around the lake.
Canoe Ride
Birdwatching
Scenic Lake View
Guided Forest Walks
Enjoy an intimate guided forest walk safari. Go on a walking safari for rich cultural experiences.
Walking Safari
Wildlife View
Cultural Site Visit
Our Commitment
Exploring Rubondo Island Park Responsibly
Experience your tour to Rubondo Island Park through a wildlife safari to the forest and Lake Victoria. We ensure the wildlife safari journey stays joyful and doesn’t harm nature.
Sustainable Eco-tourism
Low-impact tourist management helps keep the forest’s delicate balance undisturbed for generations to come.
Local Community Support
Joining native communities to create alternative livelihoods and start education and conservation of flora and fauna.
Our Commitment
Responsible Tourism
OUR PURPOSE
Protect Tanzanian Species
Tanzania Safaris
Frequently Asked Questions.
The dry season between June and October is the best time to visit Rubondo. Forest trails remain dry, and travellers can easily spot chimpanzees near fruit trees in the forest. Safari-goers can enjoy a clearer view and safer travel.
The wet months between December and March are the best time to watch birds. You can also spot local orchids and wildflowers blooming through the forest.
The top activities in the park include chimpanzee tracking, birdwatching, boat safaris, sport fishing, and forest walks.
No large safari vehicles are allowed inside the national park. The park is mostly forest (90%) and focuses on eco-friendly, responsible tourism.
According to Rubondo Island Park Guidelines, the park is open between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm. You must have permission to enter the park and stay on the designated tracks. Don’t try to feed or disturb any animals. Be in the safari jeep during game drives. Don’t smoke inside the forest.
