RUBONDO ISLAND
Complete guide to SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
ucked in a corner of Lake Victoria is the world’s second largest fresh water lake in the world, with a smaller Island under her wing; It stretches over 457.8 square kilometers (178.7 sq miles) of which 240 sq.kms is land and remain 217.8 sq.kms is water. Located Northwest Tanzania about 150-sq. km (95 miles) west of mwanza the park consists mostly of dense lowland dry forest, but in the southern part are open grasslands. Towards the coastline the topography varies between sandy beaches and papyrus swamps. Best time to visit: The Park is best visited in the dry season June – August. Wildflowers and butterflies, Wet season November- March, December – February best for migratory birds. Birdlife: Some of the birds found in this Island, Kingfisher’s and fly catchers. Also is home to fish eagles as well as a rich variety bird species. Over 400 species have been recorded including endemic and a global stopover for hundreds of migratory birds. Wildlife: On the island you can find elephant, giraffe, hippo, crocodile, bush buck, sitatunga, suni antelope, vervet monkey, colubus guereza monkey, genet cats, otters and a small group of chimpanzees. Fishlife: Rubondo Island is home to the highest density of African Fish Eagles anywhere in the world. Also, African Grey Parrots, Pin-tailed Whydah, Paradise Flycatchers and Giant Kingfishers are regularly seen. The island also offers rich opportunities for sport fishing as the waters surrounding Rubondo are a part of the national park. At the moment the standing record for a Nile Perch is 108kg! Access: Rubondo Island lies north of Mwanza, close to the Tanzanian border. Charter flights leave Mwanza, Arusha, Nairobi and the Serengeti or alternatively, private boats run from Nkome and Muganza. By road from Mwanza and then boat transfer, Contact the Park for there are no scheduled flights to Rubondo Island at the moment. All transportation is either via charter flights or alternatively transport with Land Cruiser from/to Mwanza. To do: Walking safaris, boat excursions, Sport fishing, Chimpanzee treks, plans for canoe trips. Boat specifications: The smaller boat is a 16 foot fiberglass bow-rider with an 85hp Yamaha engine, electric start with around 40 running hours on the clock. Top Speed 45 knots. The larger boat is a 30 foot cabin cruiser with a Chrysler Petrol V8 Aqua Jet engine (no propeller to get caught in nets). Top speed 40 knots. Location: The Rubondo Island national Park is Located Northwest Tanzania, 150 Km (about 95 miles) west of Mwanza. Accommodation: The camp has ten luxury tented rooms with ensuite bathrooms, hot running water, electricity and a laundry service, despite the remote location. Each room has a private verandah where you can read or relax in peace and watch the bushbuck roam, delicate and graceful through the camp grounds. The camp also has a swimming pool, perfect for a swim during the midday heat. Park bandas and Campsite. |
Serengeti National Park
BEST TIME TO VISIT SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
December to March: Calving season is the ideal time to witness the birth of thousands of young animals. It’s also when predators are most active, hunting vulnerable newborns.
April to June: The migration begins, as large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other species start moving northward across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing lands.
July to October: Peak migration season, especially notable for the dramatic and dangerous crossings of the Mara River, where many animals fall prey to crocodiles.
November: Short rains signal the return of the herds to the Serengeti after months away, revitalizing the landscape and offering another spectacular wildlife display.
HOW TO GET TO SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
By Road: The Serengeti is accessible by a roughly 7-hour scenic drive from Arusha, allowing travelers to pass through various landscapes, including villages and countryside along the way. It’s a great option for those who enjoy road trips and want to see more of the Tanzanian landscape before arriving at the park.
By Air: For a faster, more convenient option, regular flights operate from Arusha to multiple airstrips within the Serengeti. These flights significantly reduce travel time, offering stunning aerial views of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes.
TIPS FOR VISITORS TO SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
- Pack Smart: Bring lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for varying temperatures, along with a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Stay Hydrated: Make sure to carry plenty of water, especially during extended game drives to stay refreshed.
- Respect Wildlife: Always observe animals from a safe distance and avoid interacting with or feeding them.
- Follow the Rules: Listen carefully to your guide and follow all park regulations for both your safety and the preservation of the environment.
