Lake Victoria Uganda: Lake Victoria is the second largest freshwater lake in the world after Lake Superior in North America. It has a surface area of 68,800 square miles. Before its name changed to Lake Victoria, it was and is still locally popular as Lake Nalubale. Explorer John Hannington Speke named the lake after Queen Victoria. Lake Victoria is one of the largest African great lakes which three East African countries share. These include Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda which shares the largest portion. This lake is also the source of the longest river, the Nile. The first foreign explorers to see where the River Nile finds its way out of Lake Victoria were John Hannington Speke and Richard Burton. They were on their Uganda Safari adventure in the 1850s.
Lake Victoria is a destination for several tourist activities in the countries where it is. There are islands with amazing wildlife on the lake and beautiful landscapes. Also, around the lake, there are numerous accommodations where you stay and enjoy the scenery and cool breeze from the freshwater lake. Beside the lake are beautiful beaches for swimming and relaxation. Thus, as you plan for your safari to Uganda, consider a boat cruise on Lake Victoria. Thus, these are some of the things you’ll enjoy on your safari.
Source of The Nile
Lake Victoria is the source of the world’s longest river, the Nile. It flows northwards through Lake Kyoga to the upper part of Lake Albert. Then, it proceeds through the Albert Nile through countries like South Sudan, Sudan, to Egypt. Afterward, it forms a large delta as it pours into the Mediterranean Sea. This river forms some thrilling waterfalls. Among them are Murchison Falls which are the most powerful waterfalls in the world. Others are Karuma falls, Owen falls, and Rippon falls. Apart from the Nile, another main outlet on Lake Victoria is River Katonga.
Wildlife on and in Lake Victoria
In Lake Victoria, there is a variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic wildlife. Also, on the islands, there are many mammals, primates, birds, and other species. There are turtles, mud turtles, loach catfish, Nile crocodiles, hippos, freshwater crabs, and lots of fish. The fish species include Haplochromis Nyererei, lungfish, African tetra, Climbing Gourami, Spiny Eel, and more. There are many beautiful primates on the islands of Lake Victoria for example chimps on Ngamba Island and monkeys. There is a wide range of bird species on the islands and around the shores as well as mammals such as Bohor reedbuck and Sitatunga.
Activities to do on Lake Victoria in Uganda
Lake Victoria offers many tourist activities around and on the lake. You can visit areas like;
Ssese islands
The Ssese Islands are one of the most beautiful tropical areas to relax after your gorilla trekking, mountain climbing, and wildlife safari tours in remote areas. These islands are about 84 in number they are in the Kalangala district. Additionally, the island has beautiful beaches with stunning sites for wonderful vacations and relaxation. There are exciting things to do at Ssese islands, including visiting the island club, a forest walk, visiting Kihumuro cave, and spot fishing among others. There are several lodges to stay at on your safari to the Ssese islands. These include the Ssese Islands Beach Resort, the Philo Leisure Gardens, Ssese Habitat Lodge, and Victoria Forest Resort. Also, you can stay at Mirembe Resort Beach, Panorama cottages, and many more.
Visiting Ngamba Island chimpanzee sanctuary
Ngamba is one of the numerous islands on Lake Victoria and it is where we find Ngamba Island Chimp Sanctuary. It is home to orphaned chimps that were rescued from poachers by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The island is a rainforest covering 100 acres. So this is another alternative where you can watch the chimps of Uganda. Alternatively, you can see chimpanzees in forest destinations in remote areas from Kampala like Kibale National Park. A team takes care of the chimps on the island. Also, you participate in some of the daily activities of these people such as feeding the chimps. There is much more wildlife at Ngamba Island besides the chimps. They include monitor lizards, otters, and a variety of birds.
Fishing trip on Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria is one of the lakes in Uganda that are a large source of fish. Thereby, common catches of tilapia and Nile perch. Those who want to have an experience of fishing on this lake can now add this to their activities of the safari. Thus, they will do it before returning to their home.
As you stay around areas close to Lake Victoria mainly Entebbe before embarking on your return journey home, there are beautiful and amazing areas to visit. These include the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre where you’ll watch a variety of animals and birds. For example, you see rhinos, lions, an elephant, and chimpanzees. Also, you can visit the Mabamba wetland where you’ll spot shoebills. Alternatively, you can visit the Entebbe Botanical Garden and relax on the beautiful cool beaches around the lake.
