Exploring Lake Tanganyika on a Safari
Exploring Lake Tanganyika on a Safari
Discovering the Marvels of Lake Tanganyika:
Ranked as the world’s second-largest freshwater lake by volume, Lake Tanganyika is surpassed only by Russia’s Lake Baikal. It holds the distinction of being the second-oldest freshwater lake globally and stretches a remarkable 670 kilometers (417 miles) in length and 80 kilometers (50 miles) in width. Nestled within the Great Rift Valley, Lake Tanganyika is shared among Tanzania, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia, offering a treasure trove of aquatic life, including the Lake Tanganyika sardine, Tanganyika killifish, and Tanganyika lates, alongside crocodiles and hippopotamuses.
Exploring the Magnificence of Lake Tanganyika:
Nestled among four nations, Lake Tanganyika stands as the world’s lengthiest freshwater lake, second only to Siberia’s Lake Baikal in terms of depth, volume, and age. Spanning an immense 12,700 square miles, it extends from Burundi to Zambia, with Tanzania claiming the largest portion at 46%.
Standing on its sandy shores, one is greeted by a vast expanse of blue, reminiscent more of an ocean than a freshwater lake. Along Tanzania’s coastline, Kigoma serves as the principal town, while smaller villages, linked by lake taxis, offer a glimpse into local lifestyles.
A Natural Marvel of Time:
Estimated to be 9–13 million years old, Lake Tanganyika and its tributaries have carved out a stunning ecosystem adorned with ravines, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls, extending to the Mahale Mountains — an ideal terrain for hiking and chimpanzee trekking.
Aquatic Beauty and Exploration
The lake beckons snorkelers and divers with its vibrant cichlids, an endemic fish species, thriving in its clear waters. While certain areas may have concerns about Bilharzia, the overall spectacle makes it a diver’s paradise.
A Living Testament:
Steeped in history, the MV Liemba, a century-old ‘indestructible’ warship from Germany’s colonial era, serves as a passenger and cargo ferry, connecting Tanzania and Zambia. This living relic offers travelers a remarkable journey back in time, sailing on the waters that have silently witnessed centuries unfold.
Where Lake Tanganyika Fits into Your Tanzanian Adventure:
Located on the western safari circuit, Lake Tanganyika is flanked by Katavi National Park, the Mahale Mountains National Park, and Gombe Stream National Park. While this circuit is less frequented due to its remote nature and associated costs, it promises unparalleled rewards. Visitors are treated to pristine wilderness, abundant wildlife, and an exclusive safari encounter away from the bustling parks of Tanzania.
Notably, Gombe Stream and the Mahale Mountains stand as two of just three locations in Tanzania where chimpanzees can be encountered, adding a rare and fascinating dimension to the wildlife experience in this secluded corner of the country.
Katavi National Park: Wilderness Sanctuary
Covering over 4,000 sq km, Katavi National Park is an untouched wilderness renowned for its abundant large mammals, featuring hippopotamus, elephants, and lions. It serves as a critical refuge for the endangered wild dogs, adding to its ecological significance.
Mahale Mountains National Park: Primate Paradise
Bordering Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains National Park is a primate haven, housing nearly 1,000 chimpanzees, rare Red and Angola colobuses, and vibrant red and blue-tailed monkeys. The lush forest also hosts a plethora of colorful birds, offering a treat for ornithologists.
Gombe Stream National Park: Legacy of Jane Goodall
Nestled on Lake Tanganyika’s shores, Gombe Stream National Park is renowned as the site where Jane Goodall conducted groundbreaking chimpanzee research. Its spectacular forest habitat, featuring steep valleys, streams, and rivers, mirrors the adjacent Mahale Mountains National Park.
Accessibility and Remote Beauty
The western safari circuit, accessible by boat or flight from Arusha and Dar es Salaam, boasts unparalleled beauty. Though often pricier due to its remote location, the circuit offers a unique and secluded safari experience, accentuated by its diverse landscapes and rare wildlife encounters. Driving distances are impractical due to the challenging forest terrain, further enhancing the exclusivity of this remarkable safari destination.
Underwater Wonders: Snorkeling and Diving
Lake Tanganyika invites adventure enthusiasts to explore its underwater wonders through diving and snorkeling. With a consistent temperature of 25 degrees Celsius year-round and visibility up to 20 meters in the dry season, the lake is a haven for vibrant cichlids, with 98% of known cichlid species present. Diving, suitable for beginners and intermediate divers, requires PADI certification and guidance from local experts due to potential hazards like crocodiles, hippos, and Bilharzia.
Fishing
Fishing aficionados can relish angling trips on Lake Tanganyika, boasting 350 recorded fish species. The giant Nile perch, weighing up to 80 kg, dominates the waters along with lake salmon and the formidable goliath tiger fish. Fishing, subject to a small fee and catch-and-release consensus, is prohibited between December and February for conservation reasons.
Scenic Cruises and Evening Delights
Experience the beauty of Lake Tanganyika with a sunset dhow cruise, where lantern-laden canoes set out for evening fishing. Enjoy romantic sundowners and witness the breathtaking sunset during a 1.5-hour tour. For primate enthusiasts, the Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream National Parks along the eastern shores offer guided forest walks to observe chimpanzees and other wildlife species.
Chimpanzee Encounters and Permits
Chimpanzee tracking in Mahale Mountains National Park requires a permit, priced at $150, while Gombe National Park charges $100. Though chimp sightings aren’t guaranteed, experienced guides increase the likelihood. Once a troop is located, visitors have up to one hour to observe these remarkable creatures.
Where to Stay.
Lake Shore Lodge and Lupita Island
Lake Shore Lodge, positioned along the southern Tanzanian shores of Lake Tanganyika, offers accommodation options to suit various budgets, ranging from do-it-yourself tents nestled under a 100-year-old mango tree to luxurious beachfront chalets equipped with en-suite facilities. For those seeking a more affordable stay, lawn bandas are available, featuring shared bathrooms. The lodge boasts amenities such as a spa, yoga classes, jacuzzi, and a variety of activities to indulge in.
Lupita Island, a secluded private island on Lake Tanganyika, presents guests with luxurious cottages boasting panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The resort ensures a comfortable and exclusive retreat with offerings such as fine dining, spa services, a swimming pool, a games room, a bar & lounge, and a gym.
Getting There: A Distinctive Journey
Lake Tanganyika, situated on the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo in South West Tanzania, can be accessed via a short flight from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma. Alternatively, travelers can embark on a unique voyage aboard the MV Liemba, a century-old ‘indestructible warship,’ which operates as a passenger ferry, offering a memorable five-day journey between Tanzania and Zambia every other Wednesday.
Embark on an exploration of Lake Tanganyika’s captivating wonders with Travel Wise Safari, your gateway to an extraordinary tour. If the allure of discovering the unique charm of this majestic lake has sparked your wanderlust, our dedicated team is prepared to curate an unforgettable experience for you.
Feel free to reach out to us directly to unlock the doors to a fascinating adventure that seamlessly blends scenic beauty, underwater wonders, primate encounters, and the comfort of exquisite accommodations. Let Travel Wise Safari be your trusted companion in crafting a tour that guarantees both excitement and enrichment. We’re here to ensure your journey is nothing short of thrilling and unforgettable.
