Rubondo Island Camp

A stay here is shaped by the rhythms of the forest and the lake. Days are active, with a focus on exploration and discovery. The main activity is tracking the island's habituated chimpanzee troop on foot, but guided walks through the forest, birding trips, and game drives are also offered. Time on the water is a key part of the experience, with boating safaris exploring the shoreline and opportunities for catch-and-release fishing for Nile perch. In the quiet of the afternoon, there is time to read on a private veranda or cool off in the swimming pool. Evenings begin with drinks served on the beach, watching hippos emerge from the lake to graze near the camp as the sun sets.

The camp is located on Rubondo Island, a 25,000-hectare island in the south-west corner of Tanzania's Lake Victoria. The island is almost entirely covered in pristine, primary sub-tropical rainforest, a protected national park that is home to just a handful of park wardens and researchers. This lack of human settlement has allowed wildlife to flourish. The forest is a refuge for chimpanzees and elephants, while shy sitatunga antelope hide in the papyrus swamps that fringe the lake. The waters themselves are rich with tilapia and Nile perch, and are home to thriving populations of hippos and crocodiles. The camp itself is situated on a sandy beach at the forest's edge, looking out across the lake.

Accommodation is in eight cottages set along the edge of the forest, each looking out over the beach towards Lake Victoria. The cottages were constructed using local materials and traditional building methods. Inside, each room has an en-suite bathroom with a hot-water shower and flushing toilet. One of the eight cottages is a larger, two-bedroom unit designed for families, which can sleep up to four people. Every cottage has its own private veranda, furnished with chairs and a table, providing a quiet space to enjoy the lake views and the sounds of the forest. In-room spa treatments can also be arranged.

Rates are on a full-board basis, including all meals and house drinks. The camp provides a varied menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which are served in the main dining area. Given the remote island location, the kitchen makes creative use of available ingredients. Picnic lunches can be arranged for those on full-day excursions. A memorable part of the daily routine is gathering on the beach for drinks as sunset approaches. It is a peaceful time to reflect on the day and watch the hippos begin their nightly routine of emerging from the water to feed on the surrounding grasses. Champagne and other premium brand drinks are available at an additional cost.

Rubondo Island offers a different kind of safari experience, suited to guests who are interested in more than just game drives. The focus on walking, boating, and primate trekking appeals to active and curious travellers. It is a compelling destination for keen birdwatchers, anglers, and anyone with a particular interest in chimpanzees and conservation. The remote, quiet atmosphere also makes it a fine choice for couples and honeymooners seeking a peaceful retreat. A dedicated family cottage is available, though the activities and environment are generally better suited to families with older, adventurous children. Note that the minimum age for chimpanzee trekking is twelve years.