Discover Lake Tanganyika: The Second Deepest Freshwater Lake in the World
Discover Lake Tanganyika!!
- Visit the Second Deepest Freshwater Lake in the World
- Experience how Lake Tanganyika plays a crucial role in the daily lives of millions
- Step back in time and explore Lake Tanganyika, one of the oldest lakes on Earth
Lake Tanganyika: A Glimpse into One of the World’s Oldest Lakes
Lake Tanganyika is one of the largest and deepest freshwater lakes in the world, located in East Africa. It is bordered by four countries: Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi, and Zambia. The lake stretches over 670 kilometres (416 miles) in length and reaches depths of up to 1,470 meters (4,823 feet), making it the second deepest lake in the world after Lake Baikal in Russia, which has a depth of 1,642 meters (5,387 feet).
Lake Tanganyika is also considered one of the oldest lakes in the world, estimated to be between 9 and 12 million years old. Its waters are home to hundreds of species of fish, many of which are found nowhere else. The lake supports the livelihoods of millions of people through fishing, transportation, and tourism. It also plays an important role in scientific research, offering valuable insights into climate history and evolution.
Why Lake Tanganyika Should Be on Your Travel List!
Explore Lake Tanganyika from the Water: A Boat Trip Experience
One of the best ways to explore Lake Tanganyika is by boat. A boat trip gives you the chance to see the beautiful water, surrounding mountains, and islands. The calm waters offer a peaceful experience, and you might spot some wildlife along the shores, such as birds and small animals. It’s a great way to relax while enjoying the scenery. You can also visit some of the remote islands by boat for a day of exploration.
Fishing at Lake Tanganyika
Fishing is a popular activity around Lake Tanganyika. The lake is home to many different types of fish, and local fishermen use traditional methods to catch them. Visitors can join these fishermen to learn how they fish or simply try their hand at fishing on their own. Whether you fish from a boat or the shore, it’s a peaceful way to spend time by the lake. Fishing also supports the local communities, as many rely on it for their livelihood.
Island Hopping on Lake Tanganyika
Lake Tanganyika has several beautiful islands, like Kigoma, that are perfect for a day trip. You can take a boat to the islands and explore their natural beauty, or visit local villages to learn about the culture. Some islands also have ancient ruins or museums that provide insight into the area’s history, making for an interesting and enjoyable experience.
Discover the Traditions and People Around Lake Tanganyika
Around Lake Tanganyika, you can visit local villages and learn about the culture of the people who live there. These villages often rely on fishing, farming, and traditional practices for their livelihoods. During a cultural tour, you can see how local people live, including how they cook, fish, and celebrate their traditions. It’s a great way to connect with the local community and understand their way of life while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Best Places to Stay Near Lake Tanganyika
Liemba Beach Lodge
Liemba Beach Lodge located in the town of Kigoma, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of Lake Tanganyika. It has a restaurant, bar, and is well-known for its central location, making it easy to access the lake and nearby attractions.
Tanganyika Blue Bay Resort
Tanganyika Blue Bay Resort situated on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in Mpulungu, this resort offers a relaxing environment with rooms that face the lake. The resort has a variety of activities including boat rides, water sports, and hiking in the nearby hills.
Kigoma Hilltop Hotel
Kigoma Hilltop Hotel is located in the town of Kigoma, offering comfortable accommodations with great views of Lake Tanganyika. The hotel is a convenient base for exploring the area and provides basic amenities for a relaxing stay.
How to get to Lake Tanganyika
By Air
The closest major airport to Lake Tanganyika is Kigoma Airport in Tanzania, which is well-connected to other Tanzanian cities. You can fly from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Zanzibar to Kigoma on a domestic flight. From Kigoma, you can easily reach nearby accommodations and the lake itself. Bujumbura in Burundi also has an international airport, and you can fly to Bujumbura Airport from several African cities. Once at the airport, taxis and local transport can take you to the lake.
From Other Tanzanian National Parks
If you're already on safari in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire, you can arrange for a safari vehicle to take you to Lake Tanganyika. Depending on your location, the drive can take anywhere from 7 to 12 hours. This scenic route offers a chance to see Tanzania’s landscapes up close, passing through rural villages and lush countryside.
By Boat
For a more adventurous route, you can take a boat across Lake Tanganyika itself that operates on the lake and connects several towns, including Kigoma in Tanzania to Bujumbura in Burundi. This can be a scenic and relaxing way to travel around the lake, though it’s best to check schedules ahead of time, as ferry services can be irregular.
