Rubondo Island National Park
It is located on the southwest shores of Lake Victoria, Rubondo Island National Park includes Rubondo Island and several other small islands of Lake Victoria.
Rubondo is the best place to see a variety of butterflies and birdlife easily from the lakeshore.
The rare Sitatunga, an extremely endangered amphibious antelope, can sometimes be viewed as escaping from the charging predators by hiding and camouflaging itself in the lakeshore marshes.
Chimpanzees can also be seen in this beautiful National Park.
A visit to Rubondo Island National Park offers visitors a break from game viewing in the tranquil peace of a lakeshore setting.
Exploring the islands within the park creates excitement for day trips.
Fishing expeditions into Lake Victoria are easily arranged through the major lodges.
Rubondo Island National Park is a relaxation from the rigorous safari circuit and a relaxing place from which to explore Lake Victoria.
Attractions in Rubondo Park
- Witness Chimpanzees closely in the wild.
- This park has a variety of water birds, Eurasian migrants, and introduced African grey parrots
- The high density of African fish eagles is distinctly seen in Rubondo National Park
- ● Expect to see different animal species including Sitatunga, Elephants, Giraffes, Hippos, Bushbucks, Pythons, Crocodiles, Chimpanzees (not fully habituated), Bush pigs, and Suni
- Lake Victoria forms a spectacular sight for visitors with the deepest point in the lake (Irumo) forming part of the park
- Enjoy the magnificent view of one of the last remaining representatives of evergreen dense primary lowland Congolese forest with a unique habitat mosaic amid high biodiversity value
- Visitors enjoy the beautiful beaches such as Fly Catcher, Mchangani, and Michicoco
- Visitors can see the Important gulfs of Irumo and Kamea
- Expect clear sightings of both sunrise and sunset
- Maasai such as “Ntungamirwe”, “Maji Matakatifu”, “Altare” and “Solo” explain the life of natives who once stayed in the park
- Experience “Birds Islands” which is an amazing breeding site for waterbirds ● Visitors to Rubondo Island actually discover the Crocodile Island
Facilities
Bandas
Located about two kilometers from the Park headquarters with 1 unit of well-maintained uniport with triple beds inside/self-contained and 5 double bedrooms all self-contained with hot shower service. Maximum capacity 13 pax per night.
Rest House
The rest house is owned by TANAPA and is located about two kilometers from Park headquarters with 2 singles, 1 triple beds room, and 1 double bed sized room all being self-contained with a TV and hot shower. The maximum/full capacity is 7 pax per night.
Youth hostel
Located at the park headquarters. Capacity 36 persons (16 boys, 16 girls, and two rooms with double beds to accommodate 4 teachers.)
Resting shelters
Four resting shelters are located at bandas facing a magnificent view of the lake where visitors rest while enjoying the lake breeze during the day.
Dining and Kitchen
A well-maintained and fully equipped facility consisting of a dining and kitchen owned by the park, all visitors are advised to bring in some foodstuffs while the park provides kitchen and dining facilities. Note that, the place is self-catering.
Campfire
The dining/kitchen facility faces a fireplace where the fire is normally lit for visitors to stay nearby during evening times while enjoying their barbecue and drinks.
Shop
One shop is owned by TANAPA Rubondo staff located at Park headquarters and sells some household items and beverages for both staff and visitor use.