COMMUNITY TOURISM IN RUBONDO ISLAND: Before Rubondo Island national park was established as a national park in 1977, it was inhabited by the Zinza people of Tanzania who used to cultivate the land planting banana plantations and fishing from Lake Victoria. On establishing the island as a national park, the government of Tanzania translocated the Zinza people and resettled some of them on main land Tanzania and others were resettled on other islands in Lake Victoria.
Community tourism in Rubondo Island national park involves the local communities in Rubondo in different aspects of the tourism. There are about 3 different cultural sites that visitors to the park can visit on guided cultural tours. These sites are Altare, Ntungamirwe and Maji Matakatifu.
Cultural Experiences in Rubondo Island national park
Visitors to the cultural sites are entertained by locals through traditional songs, dances and folk tales Which give the visitors a greater and better understanding of the ways of living of the island natives.
The locals also display their crafts and show case their crafts making skills to the visitors. Who in turn could purchase the crafts as gifts or souvenirs thus supporting the locals businesses.
Community Involvement in Rubondo Island national park
The locals have been trained as park rangers, guides and trackers. Helping with chimpanzee habituation and have been employed by the park thus empowering the locals.
The locals have also been involved in education programs about environmental protection. It has helped in reducing encroachment on park land and clearing of forests. These programs have created awareness among the locals on the importance of conservation and tourism.
Visitors taking on cultural tours in Rubondo island will get a good understanding of the way of life of the local islanders of Tanzania.
Visit Rubondo Island National Park in Tanzania with these recommended Tanzania tour operators or inquire with us directly below.
