This incredible lake is the biggest in Africa and it is linked to one of the world’s most important rivers.
Lake Victoria, in Tanzania, is the source of the famous Nile river, known for its crucial role in Ancient Egypt.
The lake is located in east central Africa along the equator and borders the countries of Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
It measures at a huge area of 26,828 square miles and is among the largest of the freshwater lakes in the world.
Lake Victoria is only exceeded in size by Lake Superior in North America.
The lake is home to a great variety of biodiversity, including over 200 species of fish. But this isn’t the only wildlife you’ll find there.
Groups of hippos are likely to be seen in shallow parts of the lake, while antelopes are also native to the Lake Victoria area.
One visitor on Tripadvisor said: “Arrived at Mabmabma at 9.30am, and met Ishmael, our guide. We got in the boat and headed out into the marsh with Dan as the driver.
“Saw lots of birds, malachite and jinga kingfishers, herons, egrets, kites, and a total of four shoebills. The guide was great and the experience was top notch!”
As the source of the Nile river, the lake holds a big reputation. It is the longest river in Africa and has been considered the longest in the world at an impressive 4,160 miles.
The river is made up of three major streams including the Blue Nile, White Nile, and the Atbara.
The Blue tributary starts at Lake Tana in Ethiopia and meanders its way through 870 miles to Khartoum, the Sudanese capital.
The White Nile finds its source at Lake Victoria and then flows its way to join the Blue Nile at Khartoum.
Together, the White and Blue make up one Nile, which pours into the Mediterranean Sea.
Both Lake Victoria and the Nile river are popular places for tourists to visit, especially for those interested in wildlife or history.