Rubondo Island Camp, Rubondo | Timbuktu Travel
Rubondo

Rubondo Island Camp

Travel and Leaisure Worlds Best Awards for number 1 tour operator in the world 2024 and number 2 tour operator in the world 2025
We're one of the World's Best Tour Operators!
Voted No.1 in 2024 and No.2 in 2025 by Travel+Leisure

About Rubondo Island Camp

A one-of-a-kind camp with unique activities and wildlife in the most incredible setting.
Little-known Rubondo Island is a magical place and this airy camp is the only way you’ll get to experience it properly. It’s the only lodge on the pristine, jungled island and it’s a rather nice one too, with small cottages for guests to stay in and plenty of nooks and crannies to relax in (as well as a swimming pool). Activities-wise, the chimp trekking is a relatively new experience and the real draw card of the island, but there are also plenty of water-based and land-based happenings to enjoy. This really is an untouched paradise, that will be sure to thrill even the most seasoned traveller.
Safari
8 Rooms
Open Map
Static map

Property details

The property

Rubondo’s main area is bright, breezy and relaxed. Colourful cushions adorn comfy chairs and sofas and there’s a small but well-stocked bar in the corner. Views through the poles are of the lake’s unusual inhabitants, which can also be seen from the large swimming pool or one of the surrounding loungers if you’re looking for a spot of downtime. Although there’s no official campfire area, sundowners are often enjoyed on the beach complete with flickering flames.

The rooms

The camp consists of eight tin-roofed, ensuite rooms with solid walls and polished floors. Curtains flutter at the mesh windows and the Afro-chic theme from the main area is continued with funky printed sofas and chairs that add a touch of quirkiness. Each room also has its own private veranda with views onto the lake and comfortable outdoor furniture - the perfect spot from which delve into a good book.

Activities

Rubondo has a multitude of unique activities to enjoy, ranging from catch and release fishing for the legendary Nile Perch and boat and canoe safaris to game drives, jungle walks and amazing birding. The real draw, however, is the chimpanzee trekking which was recently introduced after a long period of habituation. Head out on a walk with your guide to see the cheeky primates and watch them frolic, fornicate and (play) fight in the trees.

What you'll love

What you'll love

The feeling of being a real-life Robinson Crusoe. This is one of the most unique lodges we’ve ever come across, in one of the most astonishing and interesting ecosystems on the planet.
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

Ask for a brief history of the island. From rhino relocations to chimpanzee sanctuary, it’s been through a lot in its short time as a national park.
Something to think about

Something to think about

Although the chimpanzee population is habituated to humans, there’s still not a 100% guarantee that you will see them on your hike.
Lodge positive impact

Positive Impact

The impact of your stay

Rubondo Island Camp is owned by Asilia Africa who pioneers sustainable investments in vulnerable East African wilderness areas, fostering conservation economies for local communities and increasing biodiversity. Through collaboration with stakeholders and guest contributions, they achieve significant positive impacts. Their latest project, focusing on the Usangu Wetlands in Tanzania's Ruaha National Park, aims to promote sustainable tourism while preserving the region's unique ecosystem and biodiversity, ensuring long-term benefits to conservation and local communities. A contribution of $10 per guest, which is included in the nightly rate, goes towards the above goals.

Tanzania

Rubondo Island

A tropical island paradise in Lake Victoria, where elephant roam and chimps shriek from the trees.