Top Tourist Attractions Near Mwanza
Mwanza is overshadowed by Arusha, the Geneva of Arusha, for a reason. Of course, most safaris to the famous northern safari circuit begin in Arusha. As a result, people know Arusha much better than Mwanza. But this city is Tanzania’s second-largest capital and is also a gateway to many attractions, and even the Serengeti National Park. In this article, we feature top attractions near this wonderful city.
Mwanza lies in northwestern Tanzania, on the shore of Lake Victoria. The city boasts many rock formations, which have earned it the nickname “Rock City.” You can access it by domestic flights from major entry points like Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar. It also has links to other regions and destinations like the Serengeti.
Saanane Island.
Mwanza has its very own small island within the reaches of the city. People often go there to relax and engage in many activities. Others visit it to watch wildlife, rocks, and forests. Saanane is just a short boat ride from Mwanza city. This isle is Africa’s smallest island national park.
What to do in Saanane Island National Park
Game viewing—Here, you can watch animals like impalas, zebras, lions, and dik-diks. Other animals include rock hyraxes, pythons, vervet monkeys, and monitor lizards. Sightings are guaranteed because the island is so small.
Sport fishing—Imagine casting your hook into the freshwater of Lake Victoria, then catching a fish and releasing it. You experience the thrill. This lake boasts over 200 species, with the dominant species being Nile perch and tilapia.
Rock jumping—Guests prefer jumping on a rock, which is indeed one of the best experiences in Saanane. When carefully captured, they may appear as if they are jumping into the lake. You can also climb other rock formations within the island.
Rubondo Island.
Rubondo is another island worth visiting from Mwanza. It’s a 4-hour boat ride from the city. But you can also get there from Arusha by flight (daily scheduled flights are available). Rubondo is a 456.8 km² (176 square miles) expanse, and it’s Africa’s largest island national park.
What to do in Rubondo Island
Game viewing—Rubondo is home to an array of animals, including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, chimpanzees, hippos, and the rare sitatunga antelopes. Other animals include crocodiles, bushbucks, and monkeys. Guests usually hop into safari vehicles to search for animals and appreciate the lush forests of this island.
Chimpanzee habituation experience—Rubondo hosts the endangered chimpanzees. They thrive in the dense Congolese forests for which the park is famed. Chimpanzee habituation involves watching chimpanzees in their natural habitats as they get trained to be close to humans.
Boat cruise—Sail from the island to other islands nearby. In this voyage, you will discover hidden islands. Enjoy a sunset cruise to see the sun sinking into the crystal-clear waters.
Birdwatching—Birders will like this island due to the abundance of birds. Over 350 species call it home, including forest birds like secretary birds, superb starlings, etc. You can also encounter water birds like pelicans and kingfishers.
Serengeti National Park.
Famed for the wildebeest migration, a Serengeti safari is a dream come true for most nature lovers. This 14,763 km² expanse spread from the northeast near Arusha to the northwest bordering Lake Victoria. So, you can get access to this park from Mwanza. Here’s how:
By road—Drive from Mwanza to the Ndabaka Gate, the main park entry from the western part. This route starts in Mwanza and goes through Biharamulo Road to Ndabaka, covering about 145 km (90 miles).
By flight—Fly from Mwanza to any of the airstrips in Serengeti. Common flights are available to Seronera, Grumeti, and Fort Ikoma airstrips. The flight may take anywhere between 1 and 2 hours, depending on your final destination.
What to do in Serengeti National Park
Game drive—An adventure on a safari van in the Serengeti is an amazing experience. Search for the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—in the central Serengeti. You have better chances of ticking all the boxes.
Balloon flight—Experience the Serengeti from atop. During this aerial experience, you will glide gently over the verdant plains early in the morning. Watch the plains turn golden as the sun climbs. Land on a landing site and proceed with a celebratory hearty breakfast.
Witness the wildebeest—you can experience the Great Migration from Mwanza, especially when the herds are in the western corridor. Watch the animals cross the Grumeti River. You can also watch the Mara River crossings.
Bujora Cultural Center—the Sukuma Museum.
The Sukuma are Tanzania’s largest ethnic group. These Bantu-speaking people live in Mwanza and neighboring regions such as Shinyanga, Simiyu, and Geita. Their unique traditions are housed in the Bujora Cultural Center.
Here, you will view traditional huts, drums, snake dances, spiritual artifacts, and many other tools. This center is the best place for a half-day trip or a stopover point if you are heading to the Ndabaka Gate.
Other Places Worth a Mention.
Lake Victoria—Explore over 200 species of fish, sail, and swim in the dive sites. Watch water birds on the shore.
Ukerewe Island—Go on an excursion to this inhabited island. Meet the Kerewe people, learn about their culture, or taste the delicious cuisine.
Ukara Island—Visit this wonderful island. See the dancing stone and many other things.
The bottom line.
So, there’s much to explore in Mwanza. Whether you want short trips or multi-day trips, we organize tours from this city. Our safari experts can help you plan your trip within a few minutes. Contact us.
