Combine a lazy beach break with an active safari at Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria is Africa's largest lake. In fact, it’s the largest tropical lake in the world. Within this vast body of water, lies Rubondo Island National Park. Attracting only a small number of visitors each year, it offers you the unique chance to combine the relaxation of a beach break with the excitement of a safari.
Deserted sandy beaches are fringed by virgin forest. From your hammock, under the shade of the trees, you won’t be just idly swinging. Binoculars in hand, you may spot the dappled bushbuck as it moves silently through a maze of tamarinds, wild palms and sycamore figs. There are birds all around: flocks of African grey parrot, heron, stork and spoonbill are just a few of the 300 endemic species that will live alongside you in the luxury of your tropical island retreat.
Rouse yourself out of that hammock and head off deeper into the island’s interior. Hippo, vervet monkey, genet and mongoose await. They share this protected habitat with introduced species such as chimpanzee, black-and-white colobus, elephant and giraffe.
For many the defining experience of a Lake Victoria safari is its chimpanzee trek. Viewing the playful primates is not guaranteed, but delightful forest walks, game watching, birding excursions, canoe trips and catch-and-release fishing are also highlights of your wilderness experience on Rubondo Island.
And, of course, the lure of that hammock’s lazy swing over the sandy beaches of Lake Victoria is highly appealing too.