Chimpanzee Trekking on
Rubondo Island NP, Tanzania

PAMOJA SAFARIS

TRIP ITINERARY OVERVIEW

Step into one of Tanzania’s most extraordinary wilderness experiences with an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking adventure on Rubondo Island. This remote sanctuary, hidden within the shimmering waters of Lake Victoria, offers a rare opportunity to encounter wild chimpanzees in their natural rainforest home. Guided by expert trackers, you’ll embark on a serene boat ride to the opposite shore before venturing into the lush jungle, where the sounds of rustling leaves and distant calls signal their presence. As you approach the semi-habituated chimps, observe their fascinating behaviors up close—from playful interactions to quiet moments of grooming—while learning about their history and conservation. Unlike anywhere else in Tanzania, this intimate wildlife encounter combines adventure with deep connection, offering a glimpse into the world of one of our closest relatives. It’s a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, set against the pristine backdrop of Rubondo Island.

YOUR ITINERARY

DAY 01

Fly to Rubondo Island National Park Airstrip

After breakfast, you’ll board a light aircraft that will transfer you to Rubondo Island Airstrip. From there, you’ll be picked up and driven a short distance to the pier, where you’ll board a small boat for the short commute across Lake Victoria to Rubondo Island. Once you arrive, you’ll be picked up by a camp Land Cruiser and taken to your home for the next three nights.

After you check in, you’ll be given an overview of your schedule for the next few days on the island. Time permitting, you may be able to go on a short sunset boat cruise on the lake before dinner.

Lodging: Asilia Rubondo Island Camp or similar
DAY 02

Chimpanzee Trekking

After breakfast, you’ll take a boat ride to the other side of the island, where you’ll embark on a guided forest walk to observe the island’s unique ecosystem, including the famous semi-habituated chimpanzees, which were released on the island in the 1960s.After you’ve had enough time with the chimpanzees, you’ll head back to the camp by boat and enjoy lunch. In the evening, gather on the beach for a lantern-lit dinner, with the forest behind you and the lake in front. Keep an eye out for the resident hippos peacefully munching on the grasses by the water’s edge.

Lodging: Asilia Rubondo Island Camp or similar
DAY 03

Catch-and-Release Fishing on Lake Victoria

Early morning wake-up and breakfast before heading out on Lake Victoria to go fishing for Nile Perch. These are one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, sometimes growing to 6.5 feet in length (2 m), and weighing over 440 pounds (200 kg). Our expert lake guides are experienced fishermen, so no matter what kind of fishing skills you possess, you’ll be sure to reel in a few fish during the time you’re out on the water. Return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon break before heading out on a guided walking tour of the island before your farewell dinner.

Lodging: Asilia Rubondo Island Camp or similar
DAY 09
Departure
After breakfast, feel free to relax at the lodge until it comes time to transfer you via Land Cruiser to the pier, where you’ll grab a boat to the mainland. From there, you’ll be picked up and taken to the airport for your flight back to Arusha Airport (ARK). Upon landing, you’ll be picked up by a Pamoja Safaris guide and taken either to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or your next destination.
Departure

YOUR ACCOMMODATION
ASILIA RUBONDO ISLAND CAMP

Price includes

$ 5900+
- start price (depending on group size & season)
  • All domestic transport
  • Fees & Taxes
  • All meals (as specified per day)
  • Base gratuity for all staff

Price excludes

-
a 30% deposit is required to book
  • International Travel
  • Private room (available for extra charge)
  • International Airfare and Visa
  •  

Ready to plan your trip?

Get in contact and one of our team members will get back to you to start planning the details of your trip.

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