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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.