Nestled near the picturesque southern shores of Lake Victoria, Mwanza is well-placed in Tanzania – and Africa at large – to offer a host of wonderful activities, with everything from cultural fun to top entertainment found in (and around) this pretty city.
Here are some of the top activities to enjoy in Mwanza:
#1 Tour the rock city
Sometimes, you really needn’t overthink travel excursions. So, why not simply spend a day (or even just an hour or two) exploring the wonderful ‘Rock City’ of Mwanza, which is well over a hundred years old?
Contact a local tour operator or navigate the city on your own, and take in all its rich history, cultural roots and modern-day vibe of this Tanzanian city.
Contact: n/a
Website: http://tourismsaut.ac.tz
Address: Mwanza, Tanzania
#2 Enjoy a sunset cruise on Lake Victoria
If you visit one place near Mwanza, let it be the beautiful Lake Victoria – a place blessed with great natural beauty.
And while you’re there, you can enjoy either a sunrise or sunset boat cruise on this special lake. This activity is not only romantic but it’s also good fun!
Contact: +254 721 242 711
Website: africanspicesafaris.com
Address: Mwanza, Tanzania
#3 Explore Sukuma Museum
Tanzania’s largest ethnic group is compiled by the Sukuma. Learn more about these indigenous people by visiting Bujora Cultural Centre’s Sukuma Museum.
At the museum, you will discover all kinds of intrigue. Enjoy seeing everything from ancient drums to daring sukuma snake dancing too!
Contact: +255 765 667 661
Website: sukumamuseum.org
Address: Sukuma Museum, Bujora Cultural Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania
#4 Pay a visit to Rubondo Island National Park
While it’s not strictly in Mwanza, this national park is close enough to warrant not only a mention – but a proper visit too! It’s a wonderfully wild, beautiful place and allows you to really soak up the endless natural beauty of tantalising Tanzania.
The park is one of two national parks found on in island in Lake Victoria and attracts all kinds of visitors, from campers to bird lovers.
Contact: n/a
Website: www.asiliaafrica.com
Address: Rubondo Island National Park, Tanzania
#5 Honour Mwalimu Julius Nyerere by visiting his home
Considered by many to have been a great fighter against social injustice, as well as the father of the Tanzanian nation, the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere was also Tanzania’s first-ever president.
Visit his home, mausoleum and museum in Butiama village and discover more about the famous, much loved man.
Contact: n/a
Website: africanspicesafaris.com
Address: Mwalimu Julius K. Nyerere Memorial Museum, Butiama village, Tanzania
#6 Stand tall at Balili Hill Range
Located outside Bunda town (which is a two-hour or so drive from Mwanza), you will find the impressive Balili Hill Range.
These hills will allow you to soak up the expansive, scenic views across the town and surrounding region. Depending on what you’re in the mood to do, you can either walk or drive up.
Contact: 255 714 445 566
Website: africanspicesafaris.com
Address: Balili Hill Range, Bunda, Tanzania
#7 Discover the freeing Serengeti National Park
Head out and explore your (and Tanzania’s) wild side by visiting the Serengeti National Park. It’s guaranteed to give you an all-round nature fix and superb game-viewing experience.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a truly amazing place – one where your travel heart can soar freely, as you take in game of all shapes and sizes.
Contact: n/a
Website: www.serengeti.org
Address: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
#8 Head to Mwaloni Fish Market
No visit to Mwanza is complete without experiencing some of its dynamic city life from the ground. Given this, Mwaloni Market is a place well-worth stopping by.
At this buzzing local market, you will find everything fresh, including fish, fruit and vegetables.
Contact: n/a
Website: www.tanzania-experience.com
Address: Mwaloni Fish Market, Mwanza, Tanzania
#9 Find the Dancing Rocks
The Dancing Rocks – more properly known as Jiwe Kuu – are one of the Rock City’s more interesting rock formations. These granite rocks can be found atop a rocky outcrop, and offer gorgeous views of both Mwanza and Lake Victoria.
There is also a fun story surrounding the rocks… be sure to find out for yourself just what it is!
Contact: n/a
Website: www.tanzania-experience.com
Address: Jiwe Kuu, Mwanza, Tanzania
#10 Find Nobel prize winner Robert Koch’s House
When you visit Mwanza, see if you can find the German Nobel prize winner, Robert Koch’s old home. It’s slightly forlorn to look at these days but it still captures an essence of olden days’ beauty and Germanic castle elements too.
The old mansion is also something of a landmark and again, offers awesome city views!
Note: Don’t head there after dark though, as people live there and usually expect money from visitors, even during daytime.
Contact: n/a
Website: www.mwanza-guide.com
Address: Robert Koch Hill, Mwanza, Tanzania
#11 Visit the famous Bismarck Rock
Another must-see is the famed Bismarck Rock. Found in the waters of Lake Victoria, this pile of rocks hold something of an iconic status in Mwanza – especially the one perched right on top! And rightly so, given how cool they are to look at.
The rocks are also wonderfully close to the Kamanga ferry station, meaning they hold an all-round great location.
Contact: +255 716 161 910
Website: www.tanzania-experience.com
Address: Mwanza, Tanzania
#12 Explore Saanane Island National Park
The Saanane island is a good place to go if you’re keen on nature walks, bird watching, cruises and picnics to name but a few of the outdoor activities you can enjoy on the lovely island.
Make your way around Saanane Island National Park and ensure you leave Tanzania, having secured a natural (outdoorsy) high!
Contact: +255 28 254 0713
Website: n/a
Address: Saanane National Park, Mwanza, Tanzania
These are some of the best experiences and activities to enjoy in Mwanza!