Overview
Rubondo Island national park has a size of 240 km². It is only one of two Tanzanian national parks located on an island in Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest lake. It is located in the southwest corner of the lake. Rubondo became a game reserve in 1965, to provide a sanctuary for animals. Tanzania gazetted Rubondo in 1977 as a national park. It is uninhabited and consequently 90% of the island remains forest today. With nine smaller islands under its wing, Rubondo also protects precious fish breeding grounds.
The habitat of Rubondo Island is mixed evergreen and semi-deciduous forest, which covers about 80% of the island’s surface area, hosting a variety of common species. The eastern lakeshore is characterized by rocky areas and sandy beaches whilst the western shore supports extensive papyrus swamps, lined with date palms.
Rubondo is home to a surprising number of large animals. Elephant, giraffe, bushbuck, Bush buck, Chimpanzee, hippo and crocodile. Except the wildlife viewing, guests can also embark on a variety of other activities that promote eco-sensitivity.
The park hosts a diverse number of birds. With 300 endemic and migratory bird species, Rubondo Island is an ornithologist’s dream. The most common species are African darters, egrets, pied kingfisher, the high-pitched screeches and African grey parrot. Rubondo also holds a very high concentration of fish eagles.
Highlights
Forest Island
80% forest cover on a Lake Victoria island paradise.
Sitatunga
Shy swamp antelope found in the island's wetlands.
Chimpanzees
Introduced and wild chimp populations in the forest.
Lake Victoria
Boat safaris on Africa's largest freshwater lake.
