Rubondo Island: Track Chimpanzees in Tanzania’s Island Park

For anyone who’s ever dreamed of sacking off the desk job to become a jungle-dwelling chimpanzee researcher (just us?) – this is your moment. Little-known Rubondo – Africa’s largest island-based national park – is a truly surprising destination.

Touch down on this extraordinary spot in Lake Victoria. With just one camp – set beachside on the edge of thick, pristine rainforest – it’s not uncommon to be the only folks here (aside from staff and wildlife researchers).

The main activity is hiking into the forest to find Rubondo’s chimpanzees. Be part of their habituation journey while keeping an eye out for signs of elephants, giraffes and the rare sitatunga antelope.

A wild experiment

How the island came to be this way started as something of an experiment. In the 1960s, the Frankfurt Zoological Society relocated chimpanzees from European zoos and circuses to Rubondo. After their introduction proved successful, the researchers brought in elephants, giraffes, rhinos, antelopes and African grey parrots. Rhinos are no longer found on the island, but everything else remains.

Today, Rubondo is a chimpanzee habituation site. You can help simply by spending time with (or near) the primates. Trek through the tangled forest, keeping an ear and an eye open for the chimps. They’ll hear you long before you’re even remotely aware of them.

What you'll see Rubondo Island Gallery

Aerial view of Rubondo Island and the surrounding lake

Vieillot's Black weaver building a nest on Rubondo Island

Close up of a chimpanzee in a tree on Rubondo Island

two Pied Kingfishers perched in a tree on Rubondo Island

Chimpanzee trekking in the forests of Rubondo Island

Guided Chimpanzee trekking in a game vehicle on Rubondo island

Views over the trees on a game drive on Rubondo Island

Rare elephant sighting on Rubondo Island

Chimpanzee trekking by Boat on Rubondo Island

Hippos pop up to scan the lake near Rubondo island

Hippo spotted out of the water on Rubondo Island

Guests enjoy some fishing on lake Victoria at Rubondo Island

Guests enjoying fishing at sunset on Lake Victoria at Rubondo Island

Fish Eagle perched on a branch at Rubondo Island

Traditional fishing on Lake Victoria at Rubondo Island

Sunset beach barbecue on the shores of Lake Victoria at Rubondo Island

Table on the beach set for dinner on the shores of Lake Victoria at Rubondo Island

Chimpanzee trekking by boat at Rubondo Island

Frequently asked Questions

1. How do I get to Rubondo Island National Park?

Getting to Rubondo is part of the adventure. Most travellers fly from Arusha, Serengeti, or Mwanza into Rubondo’s small airstrip. From there, it’s a short boat ride across Lake Victoria to your camp.

2. What wildlife can I see on Rubondo Island, and are there chimpanzees?

Yes — Rubondo is famous for its chimpanzee habituation project. Trek into the rainforest and spend time observing these incredible primates as they become comfortable with human presence. Beyond chimps, the island is home to elephants, giraffes, sitatunga antelope, bushbucks, hippos, crocodiles, and even the occasional leopard.

3. What activities are available on Rubondo Island besides game viewing?

There’s plenty to keep you busy! Of course the main attraction, Chimpanzee trekking — join researchers on a habituation hike. Go on forest walks to explore pristine rainforest trails buzzing with life. Lake Victoria also offers incredible boating and fishing (including serene sundowner cruises). And don’t forget the twitchers – this is a birding paradise.

4. Is Rubondo Island suitable for eco-conscious travellers?

Absolutely. With just one intimate, eco-friendly lodge on the island, Rubondo offers a unique blend of barefoot luxury and low-impact travel. Expect sandy beaches, open-fronted bandas, exceptional guiding, and a real sense of being in on one of Africa’s best-kept secrets.

5. When is the best time of year to visit Rubondo Island?

The dry winter season (June to October) is best for chimpanzee trekking and exploring the rainforest trails! The trails are dry and make for much easier trekking.

6. Can I combine Rubondo Island with Serengeti or Mahale Mountains in an itinerary?

Yes — it’s an unbeatable pairing. Combine chimp trekking on Rubondo with the Serengeti’s Great Migration or add the Mahale Mountains for a double dose of primate magic. Daily flights connect these destinations, making it easy to craft an exclusive, off-the-grid safari circuit.

7. Are guided forest walks or water-based safaris available on the island?

Yes. Beyond chimp trekking, guided forest walks immerse you in Rubondo’s untouched wilderness. You can also take boat safaris on Lake Victoria, where you’ll spot hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds, and possibly giant Nile perch below the surface.

8. Is Rubondo Island a good destination for birdwatchers and nature photographers?

Absolutely. With over 300 recorded bird species, Rubondo is a dream for birders. Photographers will love the combination of rainforest textures, Lake Victoria’s vast horizons, and unique wildlife — from primates to elephants to shoebill storks.