Wildlife on Rubondo Island
Rubondo Island is perhaps best known for its ongoing conservation work with chimpanzees. A small population of chimpanzees was introduced to the island in the 1960s as part of an ambitious rehabilitation program. Today, the island is home to around 40–50 chimpanzees, although sightings remain rare due to the dense forest cover. The park’s chimpanzee habituation experience allows visitors to track and observe these primates in their natural habitat—a truly unique offering in Tanzania.
In addition to chimpanzees, Rubondo is home to elephants, giraffes, sitatungas (a type of swamp-dwelling antelope), and black-and-white colobus monkeys. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting some of the 400 bird species that inhabit the island, including rare fish eagles and colorful kingfishers. Reptiles such as Nile crocodiles and monitor lizards are commonly spotted along the shores, while hippos patrol the waters of Lake Victoria.
The island’s aquatic ecosystem also attracts sport fishing enthusiasts. Rubondo is famed for its Nile perch, with some weighing over 100 kilograms—making it a prime spot for anglers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime catch.
Best Time to Visit
Rubondo Island National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on the activities you’re interested in:
Activities on Rubondo Island
Rubondo Island offers a range of accommodation options catering to different budgets and preferences.
Accommodations
Chimpanzee Tracking
Rubondo is one of the few places in Tanzania where visitors can participate in chimpanzee tracking. The chimpanzees are semi-habituated, meaning they are still adjusting to human presence, which makes each tracking experience unpredictable and exciting.
Boat Safaris
Exploring the island by boat offers a unique perspective on the park’s ecosystem. Visitors often spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species while cruising along the shores.
Sport Fishing
For anglers, Rubondo Island is a world-class destination. Nile perch, known to grow up to 200 kilograms, are the star attraction, with fishing excursions available year-round. The best catches typically occur between June and October, with professional fishing guides and equipment available for hire.
Walking Safaris
Guided walking safaris provide an intimate encounter with Rubondo’s flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the island’s forests and savannahs on foot, learning about the local ecosystem while potentially encountering elephants, bushbucks, and vervet monkeys.
Birdwatching
With over 400 species of birds recorded on the island, Rubondo is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The park is a critical stopover for migratory birds, with African grey parrots, malachite kingfishers, and African fish eagles being some of the more notable species.
How to Get to Rubondo Island
Comparison with Other Tanzanian National Parks
Rubondo Island stands out for its unique combination of water-based activities, chimpanzee tracking, and sport fishing. Unlike the more popular Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, Rubondo offers a more secluded experience, perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds. However, it’s worth noting that wildlife viewing on Rubondo can be more challenging due to the island’s thick forests.
Accessibility
Rubondo is less accessible than mainland parks, but this adds to its charm, providing a sense of exclusivity.
Crowds
The park receives far fewer visitors than the Serengeti or Tarangire, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude.
Cost
Due to its remote location, visiting Rubondo may be more expensive in terms of flights and logistics compared to the more accessible northern parks.
Conservation Efforts
Tips for Travelers
Packing
Light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars for birdwatching, and insect repellent are essential. If you plan to fish, be sure to bring proper gear, although some equipment is available for rent.
Stay Duration
A visit of 2–4 days is recommended to fully experience the park’s diverse offerings.
Costs
In addition to park fees, guided activities like chimpanzee tracking and fishing excursions may incur additional costs, so budget accordingly.