Canoeing in Lake Tanganyika

Canoeing in Lake Tanganyika : Tanzania is jam-packed with spectacular destinations of all kinds. If you’re a wildlife fan, then Serengeti and Ngorongoro are best for you. But if you want something unique like chimpanzee trekking, you must head to Gombe and Mahala National Parks, both lying on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika. And it’s quite amazing to end up your trekking safari with canoe safari on Lake Tanganyika.
Lake Tanganyika
Lake Tanganyika is an interesting freshwater in the western part of Tanzania. It borders four countries – the DR Congo, Burundi, Zambia, and Tanzania. For the records, this is the second-deepest lake in the world, and the world’s longest one.
Lake Tanganyika is home to different fish species – including cichlids. A significant population depends on this lake; either for food or income through fishing. Other animals common in this lake include hippos, crocodiles, and plenty of birds.
Canoeing is a wonderful thing to embark on while you’re in Kigoma. You get into a canoe and paddle to the unknown. A canoe is a lightweight sailing boat, pointed at each end and open top. It’s usually propelled by a single-bladed paddle. A paddler propels water using a paddle in the direction of travel. This moves the boat forward.
What to discover on a canoe safari in Lake Tanganyika?
Scenic beauty
Lake Tanganyika is naturally beautiful with its scenic crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky and a thick forest surrounding it. The water is so transparent that you can see colorful fish swimming beneath the canoe. There are towering cliffs lining its shores usually covered by amazing green forests. A lot of birds call these forests home. Occasionally, you can see monkeys in the trees or more frequently birds flying over your canoe as you approach the cliff.
This lake has many beautiful beaches worth a visit. They are amazingly beautiful and with their soft white sand they provide the grounds for relaxation, swimming, and even being in quiet seclusion. A sunset canoe safari rewards with stunning vistas of this lake. The color of the sunset turns orange, pink, or purple, creating an exceptional appearance worth a picture.
Diverse Wildlife
Lake Tanganyika has plenty of aquatic species ranging from fishes to many other species. It has coral reefs that hide in as picturesque a lake as it is rich in all forms of aquatic and terrestrial life. You may even spot a hippopotamus or a crocodile basking in the sun on the shore.
These vary in species such as monkeys, elephants, and leopards. You may even find some kinds of birds like eagles, herons, and kingfishers. The cichlid fish are among the many interesting animals you are likely to come across. They come in all sorts of colors and shapes unique only to Lake Tanganyika.
You will be able to see fish swimming just beneath the water with ease as you paddle through the clear waters. Whatever your motive may be, whether it is being an enthusiast of wildlife or just appreciating nature’s beauty, Lake Tanganyika has got something in store for everyone.
Varied fauna.
It is easy to spot fish swimming just below the waterline as you paddle through the clear waters. Whatever your reasons may be, ranging from a fan of wildlife down to only admiring the beauty of nature, Lake Tanganyika has something in store for you.
Cultural Immersion:
Lake Tanganyika is home to a diverse culture. As you paddle down its shoreline, you’ll come across traditional fishing villages. These people depend on fishing and have lived there for generations. Watch them fix their nets, repair their boats, or just simply relax along the shores of the waterways.

You may meet friendly locals doing their daily fishing activities. Mingle with fishermen and enjoy a meal together. It’s interesting to learn about new cultures and lifestyles.
Exploring Remoteness:
One thing so wonderful about canoeing Lake Tanganyika is that it takes you to places of seclusion that are far, far away from the nearest guy. You can also paddle through into hidden coves, virgin beaches, and quiet bays, far away from the noise.
You might even spot the vision of some of those very rare pieces of wildlife, like the elusive Livingstone’s fruit bat. You will feel you are in a place with an adventure of discovery. Instead, it means going back to nature and getting oneself out of the hustle and bustle of life.
Such an adventure is canoeing on Lake Tanganyika: superlatively incomparable in its combination of nature’s greatness, cultural interaction, and thrilling exploration. While paddling your canoe across crystal-clear waters, let yourself be surrounded by breathtaking sceneries, diversified wildlife, and friendly locals. Remember, though, safety first, respect the environment wear a life jacket, be weather-aware, and alert for water-associated hazards such as strong currents or wildlife. Mind the following recommendations so that canoeing in this huge lake is as safe and rewarding as possible.
If you’re interested in joining one of our safaris in Tanzania, you can contact our safari experts.
