2-Day Safari to Rubondo Island and Saanane National Park from Mwanza

Morning:

• Departure from Mwanza: Start your day early by departing Mwanza for Rubondo Island, located on the southern shore of Lake Victoria. The boat ride to the island takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
• Arrival at Rubondo Island: Rubondo Island is famous for its isolation and natural beauty. It is home to various animals, including primates, antelopes, and a wide variety of bird species.

Mid-morning:

• Check-in: Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation on Rubondo Island, which could be a lodge or a camping site, depending on your preference.
• Boat Safari: After settling in, head out on a boat safari along the shores of Rubondo Island. This gives you a chance to spot hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds, including African fish eagles and kingfishers.
• Lunch: Enjoy a traditional lunch on the island, often featuring fresh fish from Lake Victoria and other local dishes.

Afternoon:

• After lunch, explore the island's interior on a guided nature walk. Rubondo is home to chimpanzees, monkeys, and baboons. You will also see sitatunga antelopes in the marshy areas of the island, as well as a wide variety of birds in the lush forests.
• Birdwatching: Rubondo is a haven for birdwatching, with over 300 species. You may spot hornbills, woodpeckers, and other forest birds.

Evening:

• Relax and Enjoy the Sunset: In the evening, enjoy a relaxing walk along the shore and take in the sunset over the lake.
• Dinner: Have dinner at your accommodation while listening to the sounds of nature and watching the night sky.

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a final morning boat safari around Rubondo Island to see any wildlife you may have missed the previous day, such as hippos and crocodiles, or more bird species.
• Depart Rubondo Island by boat and return to Mwanza.

Mid-morning:

• Upon arrival back in Mwanza, take a short boat ride to Saanane National Park, located on Saanane Island, only about 10 minutes by boat from Mwanza. This compact park offers a unique wildlife experience with a variety of animals in a small, easily accessible location.
• Lunch: Have lunch either at the park or in Mwanza before continuing your exploration.

Afternoon:

• Upon arriving at Saanane National Park, embark on a guided game drive or nature walk. This small park has a variety of wildlife, including impalas, zebras, gazelles, baboons, and some small carnivores like civets and genets. There is also the possibility of spotting cheetahs and other predators.
• You can also enjoy birdwatching at Saanane, as the park is home to a range of species, such as herons, eagles, and other waterfowl.

Evening:

• Before heading back to Mwanza, visit the Saanane National Park viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the park, Mwanza city, and Lake Victoria.
• Return to Mwanza by boat, marking the end of your safari.