Expert Tour Guide for Lake Tanganyika in Tanzania

Lake Tanganyika, the second deepest and longest freshwater lake in the world, is an incredible site for tourists who love adventure and nature in the country of Tanzania. It is situated in the Great Rift Valley geographic region and has wonderful scenery, variety of wildlife, culture and activities.

So, here is everything you need to know about how to go on an explore this breathtaking site in Tanzania, in detail.

Best Time to Visit

Lake Tanganyika in Tanzania is interesting any time of a year. However, the best season to go at Lake Tanganyika is during the dry season, which is from June to September. During this time of the year, the skies are clear, waters are calm and the weather conditions are very suitable for fans of snorkeling, diving or trekking chimpanzees. Pools at the lake are moderate because of the equatorial climate prevailed and accessed at any time of the year. However, the dry season is the best for exploring activities through the weather conditions.

Getting There

Most of the travelers arrive by water at Kigoma, the main town in the country which is located along the north eastern shores of the lake. There are flights from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma but due to the difficult terrains, road connection is not very convenient. Alternatively, visitors can connect from Dar es Salaam to Zhuhai by train or to Mpanda by air to access through Katavi National Park, so as to incorporate adventurous wildlife safari tours into your lake tour.

What to Do Around Lake Tanganyika

Trekking with Chimpanzees at Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream National Parks

1. 

   One of the lake's biggest draws is the chance to trek with wild chimpanzees in the Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream National Park. These remote parks offer immersive jungle experiences, where you can hike through thick forests to observe these primates in their natural habitat. Both parks are best accessed by boat or small plane from Kigoma, and offer stunning views of the lake along the way.

   
   

   2.Boat and Sunset Cruises on Lake Tanganyika

   

   Boat and Sunset Cruises on Lake Tanganyika Without any doubts, it is impossible to skip a boat trip on the calm water of Lake Tanganyika. You can either take a cruise at sunset or travel on the epic MV Liemba, a German ferry still in operation today.

   
   

   There are also places like the Mahale Mountains National Park from which you can take a hot and sweaty excursion to look for the chimpanzees within the park. For those seeking romance, it would be possible to take dhows and have dinner while watching the sun sinking behind the clear blue waters of the lake

   
   

   3.Snorkelling and diving

   

   Lake Tanganyika is known for its biodiversity, especially its vibrant cichlid fish species, 98% of which are endemic to the lake. The clear waters make it an excellent location for snorkeling and diving, particularly in the dry season when visibility reaches up to 20 meters. Local dive centers can arrange trips to observe these colorful fish, as well as other aquatic species such as Nile perch and crustaceans.

   
   

   4.Angling and Kayaking

   

   The lake is also cherished by sport-loving anglers. Nile perch and tigerfish can be caught, with some fish measuring up to 50 kg. Tournaments are held in March-April every year but fishing can be performed by visitors any time of the year. Kayaking on the Eastern fringe towards Mahale Mountains is very enjoyable with plenty of hidden corners and shores with wildlife and is a peaceful yet adventurous activity.

   
   

   Fun Activities

   Cultural aspects are also present in your travel to Skipomki which was formerly colonial harbour. There is life in the form of streets full of markets, a rich parlance, and easy movement to historical sites within the town. In addition, there are opportunities for taking excursions to the villages and get insight of fishing practices and life on the Tanzanian lake.

   

   Kigoma, once a colonial port, provides a cultural dimension to your visit. The town is bustling with markets, local cuisine, and access to historical landmarks. It also serves as a gateway to village visits, where you can learn about traditional fishing methods and Tanzanian lake life.

   
   

   Where to stay

   There are various types of accommodation facilities in Lake Tanganyika region from the cheapest level to the most expensive high end or deluxe lodges.

   In terms of hotels, the Crossroads Kaziba and Tanganyika Beach Hotel are among the preferred options in the common town of Kigoma.

   If you want to be closer to where the action takes place, consider going to Greystoke Mahale Lodge or Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge, where you can see Lake Mahale and go trekking in search of chimpanzees.

Additional Excursions

Several participants prefer to combine a visit to Lake Tanganyika with a safari trip to Katavi National Park, well-known for its rugged hinterland.

You can also add a visit to the Nyerere National Park (Selous) and Ruaha National Park or enjoy the sandy beaches of Zanzibar as the last stop of your journey in Tanzania.

Best of all, visiting Lake Tanganyika is not just about lying in the warm sun or taking a bath in the warm waters of the lake. It is a mudsam adventure-hectic in a good way-an enthralling mixture of wildlife, active tourism, and bath relaxation. There’s something for everyone when exploring Tanzania, from forests to seas to lakes. Visiting this Great Lake would crown any trip to Tanzania.