Lake Victoria is located in the North Western part of Tanzania bordering Uganda and Kenya, the other 2 East African countries that share the vast lake with the biggest portion of the lake in Tanzania, 49% of the lakes total area, 45% in Uganda and Kenya gets the 6%.
Covering a total area of 68,800 square kilometers, Lake Victoria is Africa’s largest lake and the world’s 2nd largest fresh water lake, only 2nd to Lake Superior located in North America.
On the shores of Lake Victoria in Tanzania you find the most developed port city on the lake shores, Mwanza City. The city is located on the Southern shores in Mwanza region. It is the main economic hub in the area, founded in 1892. The other major towns on the Tanzania shores of Lake Victoria are Bukoba and Musoma.
Islands of Lake Victoria in Tanzania
Ukerewe island
This is the largest island in Lake Victoria. Places of interest; the cotton ginnery, Ulwengo cave, rocky hills among others.
Rubondo island
The second largest island in Tanzania. This island is the largest island national park in Africa and in Tanzania. It was established as a national park in 1977. Activities on the island; chimpanzee trekking, game drives, boat safaris, canoeing, bird watching, fishing , nature walks and forest walks.
Saa Nane island
Located only 5 minutes from Mwanza city, this island is a protected area, it is the smallest national park in Tanzania, Saanane national park. Attractions and activities; wild animals, birdlife and bird watching, camping, hiking among others.
Ukara island
Located 10km North of Ukerewe island and 4 hours from Mwanza city. Chifule fishing village is a major attraction to people visiting this island.
Other notable islands in this lake in Tanzania include Ikuza, Gana, Komasi, Maisome, Kome, Nazinga, Gana and Kamombe.
Main activities in and around Lake Victoria in Tanzania
- Agriculture; main cash crops are cotton, coffee and tea
- Fishing for commercial and domestic use
- Tourism; Rubondo Island national park, Saanane Island national park
- Transportation and trade with Uganda and Kenya
Visit Rubondo Island National Park in Tanzania with these recommended Tanzania tour operators or inquire with us directly below.
