Rubondo Island

We are always on the hunt for new exciting safari destinations and this is certainly that. Rubondo Island Camp is to open on the 15th December in Rubondo Island National Park, Lake Victoria, Tanzania. Already one of the most remote parts of Africa this camp sits on a 25,000 hectare island and is the largest Island National Park in Africa – it’s been unexplored for decades.

Asilia, our favourite ground agent in Tanzania, will be running Rubondo with their usual professionalism and unwavering operations. Rubondo Island is covered by pristine sub tropical forest inhabited by elephant and giraffe (even they are dwarfed by the ancient trees) and wild chimpanzees also live in these untouched forests.

Bushbuck, genet and the shy sitatunga lurk in the shadows and papyrus swamps and crocodile lie in wait along the shoreline as hippos crash through the undergrowth. This is a truly wild off the beaten track safari. The Nile perch here are in excess of 100 kilograms and over 200 bird species thrive on this paradise.

Rubondo is fantastic for the adventurous as one can do anything from exploring the forest to water based activities around the island. There are guided forest walks, chimpanzee scounting, excellent bird viewing and game drives through the dense forest.

Out on the water there are world class fishing opportunities and superb boat based game viewing possibilities.

Rubondo Island Camp has been constructed using local materials to blend in with it’s surroundings and the eight luxury cottages will sit in the shade overlooking the magical lakeshore. Three of the cottages are permanent as well as five luxury tents. The swimming pool is the place to relax with access to the beach and back to the lodge.

Logistically you can fly from the Serengeti or Arusha to Rubondo via Mwanza, it’s all very easy and nothing to worry about – what a perfect way to finish off your luxury Northern Circuit safari – on a private island which has been as yet untouched by human hand.