Rubondo Island sits in the southwestern corner of Lake Victoria, Africa's largest lake, and is entirely covered by forest — a genuine island wilderness that feels worlds away from Tanzania's mainland savannah parks.
Chimpanzees, along with elephant, giraffe and other species, were introduced here decades ago as part of a conservation program, and have since thrived in the absence of large predators, making sightings on foot particularly relaxed.
The island is also a birding hotspot with over 400 recorded species, and its lake waters offer excellent sport fishing for Nile perch.
June to October and December to February for the most comfortable conditions for forest walks.