How many lakes in Tanzania?

Tanzania is located in the African Great Lakes region and has a lake-covered surface area of around 61,500 km2 (23,700 square miles). This accounts for 6% of the nation's surface area, with the three biggest lakes covering 88% of that area. Lake Victoria, Africa's biggest freshwater lake, and Lake Tanganyika, the world's second-deepest lake, make up the country's two major lakes.

Here is a list of the must-visit lakes in Tanzania:

1. Lake Victoria, Mwanza

Lake Victoria, Africa's biggest lake and the world's second-largest freshwater lake, borders Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya. It is known as Victoria Nyanza, Ukerewe, and Nalubaale and is well-known for its abundance of fish, with over 200 kinds, making it a popular fishing destination and an important element of East Africa's natural landscape.

2. Lake Tanganyika

Lake Tanganyika, a large freshwater lake bordering Tanzania and three other countries, is the world's second-oldest, second-largest, and second-deepest. Known for its clear waters and diverse fish, it's a fascinating natural wonder in East Africa.

3. Lake Malawi

Lake Malawi, also known as Lake Nyasa in Tanzania, is a significant African lake, ranking third in Africa and ninth internationally. It was formed roughly 2 million years ago and is home to Lake Malawi National Park, which is well-known for its rich fauna. Lake Malawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tanzania, is a natural resource that supports diverse fauna.

4. Lake Rukwa

Lake Rukwa, located between Lake Tanganyika and Lake Nyasa in the Rukwa Valley, is famous for its abundance of birds and big crocodiles. The lake's size fluctuates due to numerous streams, which makes it appealing to nature enthusiasts. The northern section contributes to conservation in the Rukwa Game Reserve.

5. Lake Natron

Lake Natron in northern Tanzania is well-known for its salt, soda, and magnetite resources. It's a nesting site for numerous lesser flamingos, and its red tint is caused by heavy evaporation, giving it a copper-like look.

6. Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania's Great Rift Valley comprises 330 square kilometers. It is famed for its rich fauna, which includes elephants and tree-climbing lions. Four of the Big Five are present: lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards, but no rhinoceros. It's an excellent area to observe animals in their natural environment.

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