CHIMPANZEE TREKKING IN RUBONDO: Rubondo Island national park is the largest island national park in Africa, located in North West Tanzania in Lake Victoria (South West corner).The chimpanzees found on Rubondo Island are a successful conservation story that dates back to the year of 1966 when this endangered primate species, the chimpanzees were transferred to Rubondo island from captivity. These transferred chimpanzees included West African chimpanzees (16 individuals) who were rescued from circuses and European zoos. This transfer (1966-1969) was spear headed by Professor Bernhard Grzimek (Frankfurt Zoological Society).
The chimpanzees settled in well on the island and their population has grown to more than 60 chimpanzees in Rubondo Island national park that visitors to the park can trek during their safari visit. Those you wish to spend more time with the chimpanzees can take on the chimpanzee habituation experience.
Chimpanzee trekking in Rubondo Island national park
There are 2 habituated troops of chimpanzees that visitors can trek on Rubondo island, with the group in the North having more than 30 individuals in its troop and are well habituated.
There are 2 chimpanzee trekking areas in the Rubondo Island national park.
A group of not more than 8 visitors is allowed to trek the primates per trek. Escorted by experienced ranger guides and trackers.
Chimpanzee trekking in Rubondo is available to only visitors of 12 years and above.
Best time to go chimpanzee trekking in Rubondo island forests is during the dry season. It runs from June through to October.
During the trek, you will most likely hear the chimpanzees before you see them as they are very vocal animals.
Chimpanzees are so playful and rarely stay still. So be ready to follow them around once you track them and watch them play, swing from one tree to another, groom each other and more.
Chimpanzee trekking is an adventurous action-packed activity.
Chimpanzee sightings in Rubondo Island national park are not guaranteed. But visiting the park during the dry season (June to October) gives you high chances of spotting the playful apes.
Other tourist activities in Rubondo island national park
- Game drives
- Guided forest and nature walks
- Fishing
- Boat safaris and canoeing
- Bird watching
Visit Rubondo Island National Park in Tanzania with these recommended Tanzania tour operators or inquire with us directly below.
