Opening on December 15th 2012, Rubondo Island Camp will be the only camp on Rubondo Island in Lake Victoria, Tanzania. With an area of 456 km2 it is the largest Island National Park in Africa and has laid unexplored for decades.
With forest eco-systems increasingly scarce in equatorial Africa and across the world, Asilia is very proud to be able to work with Tanzania National Parks and other partners to develop Rubondo Island into a thriving and lasting conservation area – protecting wildlife and habitat, and contributing to the economic development of the region.
A short flight from the Serengeti NP, the island is the epitome of peace and tranquility. The island has no human inhabitants and 80% is covered with a pristine sub-tropical forest. Elephant and giraffe are dwarfed by ancient trees, and wild chimpanzees inhabit the untouched forests. In the shadow lurk bushbuck and genet, and the elusive sitatunga hides in the papyrus swamps. Crocodile lie in wait along the shores and hippo crash through the shallows. Nile Perch in excess of 100 kilograms call these waters home, and over 200 bird species thrive in this rich natural habitat. This is virgin paradise, uninhabited for decades.
The small and exclusive camp is being constructed using local materials to blend in with the island’s natural vegetation. The 8 luxury cottages will sit in the shade of the forest canopy just 60 metres from the lake shore. 3 spacious cottages will be ready for our ‘soft opening’ in December 2012 to stand alongside the 5 luxury tents under thatch. During the camp closure in April/May the tents will be replaced by larger cottages and the camp will be completely ready by June 2013.
Visit the blog www.rubondoislandcampproject.com for regular updates and photographs of the new camp.
Founded in 2004, Asilia has a strong presence in the main safari destinations in Tanzania and Kenya and aspires to grow its footprint and its positive impact and to be a leader in improving and expanding natural habitats. Currently, Asilia’s portfolio of camps includes: In Tanzania: Sayari Camp, Dunia Camp, Olakira Camp, Oliver’s Camp and Ubuntu Camp. On Zanzibar: Matemwe Lodge, Matemwe Retreat and Matemwe Beach House. In Kenya: Rekero Camp and Naboisho Camp.
Since the opening of Onsea House in 2006, we have been a great match with the Asilia properties. With the addition of Machweo in 2011, we are now welcoming even more clients before and/or after their safari in Asilia properties.