Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa

Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa is situated on an island in the southwest part of Lake Victoria. This tree-covered island stretches 26 kilometers in length and 10 km in width. Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa is lakeside, by the beach. The best way to get there is to take an internal flight to the nearest airstrip, Rubondo, just a 20-minutes drive from the camp.

Well, we can never say for sure that you will see the island’s chimpanzees, but between June and October is the dry season here, and that is your best chance.

Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa is open between June and March but closes in April and May.

There cannot be a much better experience than staying on an island, in a protected ecosystem, besides one of the world’s most iconic lakes. This island is almost uninhabited, apart from Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa staff and those here to look after the endangered chimpanzees and other wildlife. The lake is full of fish; there are orchids, butterflies (November to March), and hundreds of colorful bird species.

For larger species, you can look for sitatunga antelope, elephants, giraffes, and hippos. Walks and vehicle trips around the island are great ways to explore this magical place.

There are many ways to explore at Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa, but an early start is best to give yourself the best chance of seeing the animals – it is their favorite time, too. After breakfast, you can explore on foot, by boat, or by vehicle. Fishing trips are another adventure available here. Lunch can be at the camp, and in the afternoon, you can explore again or relax by the pool or with a book. In the evening, a campfire drink will be followed by dinner.

As well as your accommodation and three daily meals, the rate includes all house drinks, your game drives, boating trips, nature walks, visiting the chimpanzees (if they are not hiding!), fishing trips, and transfers to and from the nearest airstrip, and a limited laundry service.

A laundry service is available at Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa, but there are two limitations. First, as the washing is done by hand and the drying by the sun (not a machine), the turnaround time will depend on the weather. Secondly, local culture means that the camp does not wash any underwear – but supplies powder, and the guests can do these items themselves.

Can I get a hot shower at the Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa?

No, though obviously, a sunhat and sun cream (sunblock) are essentials. There is no need to bring toiletries, as we provide these. Internal flights restrict luggage to 15kg per person, and a softshell bag is mandatory. (No suitcases.)

Produce is either grown on-site or supplied by local communities, wherever possible. Special diets (such as vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and halal) can all be prepared with advance notice.

Lunch is a buffet, dinner is three courses, and can be served outside, weather permitting. Choices might include fish, beef, or chicken.

No, the water in the rooms is not safe for drinking or washing your teeth, but it is fine for washing and cleaning. You should use bottled mineral water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

Yes, there is Wi-fi at Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa.

Of course, the Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa takes security measures to keep its guests safe. Guests are advised to be escorted by a camp staff member when walking between their rooms and the main communal areas.

The first rule is that all gratuities are discretionary, not obligatory. But tipping is part of the culture here, and all tips are greatly appreciated. Guidelines are to tip any guide you use between US$5 and US$15 per group (depending on your group size) and to tip the camp staff (collectively) between US$5 and US$10 per traveler per day. Tipping is done on departure from the camp. You can tip your guide in person at the end of any excursion and tip the camp staff collectively at the end of your stay using the tipping box in the public area of the camp. Tips should be made in Tanzanian Shillings, US Dollars, Euros, or Pound Sterling.

Given the island’s location and the variety of the ecosystem, a three-night stay (or more) is recommended at Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa.

Children aged five years and older are welcome at Rubondo Island Camp Asilia Africa.

Certainly, the following are all possible: chimpanzee tracking, game drives, walking safaris in the forest, boat trips, fishing trips, and birdwatching trips.