Location: Rubondo Island National Park, Rubondo Island, Tanzania
Overview
Southwest of Lake Victoria lies Rubondo Island, Africa’s largest National Park at 26km long and up to 10 km wide, with more than 75 percent of the island covered in pristine equatorial rainforest makes it an extraordinary example of wildlife conservation. The island has been a haven for wild Chimpanzees, Sitatunga Antelopes, Elephants and Giraffes and over 300 bird species since 1960s.
Rubondo Island Camp is the only accommodation in the National Park, as such a must visit in Tanzania. With eight waterfront thatched-roof cottages (including one larger Family cottage) hand-built using traditional methods and local materials, high ceilings decked out in natural colours that mirror the Lake and forest.
All cottages are en-suite bathrooms with hot running water, flushing toilets and a terrace overlooking the Lake with views of the island life. Tilapia and Nile perch fill the lake, as the elusive Sitatunga’s hide in the papyrus swamps or along the forest edge whilst the bushbucks roam the forest. Spend the afternoons in a hammock, go on a guide bird tour with binoculars in hand or relax in the pool.
The meals at the camp are served al fresco on the main deck overlooking the beach, walk through the dense forest looking for chimps in the canopy above, or cruise around the peaceful island, and at sunset watch hippos emerge from the water to graze on the grass around camp. Wild Orchids bloom in the months of November and March, attracting a dazzling array of butterflies.
Best times to visit the Island is during the dry season from June to September, as walking along the trails is easier to navigate whilst for birders, December to March when the migrant flocks arrive. The Island has its own airstrip accessible from Dar Es Salaam, Zanzibar, Arusha and Serengeti with a 20 min drive from the camp. The camp is closed between April to May.
Uniqueness of this Camp
- Rubondo Island Camp is the only lodge on Rubondo Island, the largest island national park in Africa.
- The eight waterfront, thatched-roofed cottages (including one larger family cottage) were hand-built using traditional methods and local materials.
- The Park is a haven for chimpanzees – Chimpanzee trekking and habituation.
- Rubondo Island is the largest Island National Park in Africa
Accommodation
8 waterfront thatched-roof cottages (including 1 four-sleeper family room and a honeymoon suite): Guest Chalet – 2 pax: Rubondo Island Camp features eight large waterfront chalets, surrounded by rolling green lawns that open onto the beachy shores of Lake Victoria. Each chalet has a king-sized bed, enclosed by mosquito nets, and an en-suite bathroom including a flush toilet and running hot water. Shampoo, soap, conditioner, shower and body lotion, and flip-flops for the sandy shores are provided for all guests.
Family Chalet – 4 pax: The family cottage features a king-sized bed, with doubles or singles available on request for the 2nd room. The chalet has an en-suite bathroom including a flush toilet and hot, running water, and is within easy reach of the main camp area, and pool. The verandah offers comfy seating and superb views of the surrounding forest and Lake Victoria.
Honeymoon Cottage is available on request
Amenities
Camp Amenities:
- Generator power
- Wi-Fi in main areas
- Complimentary laundry service
- Battery-charging facilities
- Lounge area
- Bar area
- Main deck – dining Area overlooking the Lake
- Credit Card
- Room Service
- Hammock
- 24-hour Security
- Eco Friendly
- Internet Access (Complimentary
- Laundry Service (Complimentary)
- Spa
- Credit Card
- Binoculars and bird guide in hand
- Cooling off in the pool
- All meals are served on the Main deck overlooking the beach.
Activities
- The pristine Rubondo Island is explored on guided Forest drives or walks
- Boat Rides
- Tracking chimpanzees in the dense forest.
- Chimpanzee Habituation
- Sundowner boat cruise.
- Campfire on the beach
- Fishing
- Birding
- Family Safaris
- Join The Chef in preparing a light lunch
- Chimpanzee trekking and habituation
- Forest drives
- Forest walks
- Boat trips
- December to March is the best time for birding
- Family safaris
- Game drives
- Forest hiking
- Fishing