The Largest Lake In Africa To Visit Is Renowned For Its Breathtaking Islands And Chic Beachside Stays

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The sprawling continent of Africa lays claim to some pretty massive attractions. Looming over the Egyptian desert is the Great Pyramid of Giza, while the incredible Grand Egyptian Museum is a jaw-dropping colossus that took almost as long to build as the Great Pyramid. The natural landmarks found in Africa are just as gargantuan. Victoria Falls in Zambia is one of the world's widest waterfalls, which intrepid explorers can experience while aboard a unique, luxurious steam train. Meanwhile, travelers looking to embark on a tropical adventure to picturesque islands should head to the shores of Lake Victoria, Africa's largest lake.

Sitting almost directly along the Earth's equator, Lake Victoria is mostly split between Uganda and Tanzania, with a smaller portion spilling into Kenya. The lake stretches more than 26,000 square miles. Fringed by swathes of verdant jungle and sandy beaches that merge into sweeping slopes, Lake Victoria feels more like a tropical ocean. It's also one of the main sources of the Nile River.

Bustling cities like Kampala, the capital of Uganda, and Kisumu in Kenya act as entry points for travelers to reach the lakeshore, while a scattering of island chains all across the vast waters offer a dreamy tropical escape. What's more, Tanzania's iconic Serengeti National Park, which should absolutely be considered a wonder of the world, sits on the southwest border of Lake Victoria, so travelers can combine a dream safari trip with relaxation by the lakefront. From Kampala, travelers can make the journey to the Ssese Islands, where waterfront resorts offer easy access to beaches and lake sunsets. On the Kenyan portion of the lake, Mfangano Island is perfect for tropical relaxation, while Ukerewe Island in Tanzania is dotted with lush jungle and rocky cliffs. Lake Victoria is certainly an underrated getaway.

With so many islands on Lake Victoria, choosing where to go is a challenge. Clinging to the northern edge of the lake, not far from Kampala in Uganda, are the Ssese Islands. The main landmass in the archipelago is Bugala Island, which can be reached by driving from Kampala to the port town of Entebbe, then hopping on a ferry. Curving along the waterfront on Bugala is Kalangala Beach, offering plenty of sand to throw down a towel and relax. Eager explorers can venture on hikes through the island's overgrown jungles.

In Kenya, a speedboat from the small town of Mbita brings travelers to Mfangano Island, where forested slopes descend to Lake Victoria. "The night view of the lake surface merging with the starry sky [was] breathtaking," wrote a previous visitor. The lush jungles are teeming with wildlife, and hikers are likely to encounter monkeys and flocks of birds while trekking up to the island's hilltop viewpoints. Mfangano Island even boasts ancient cave drawings which you can see for yourself at Mawanga Cave, a World Heritage Site. 

For those heading to Tanzania, hop across the water to Ukerewe Island, where gargantuan rock formations rise dramatically against the skyline. The island's main port, Nansio, can be reached by ferry from Mwanza in Tanzania. Guided excursions with local tour operators allow travelers to fully explore the island. Hike through fields of palm trees, take a bicycle trip across quiet beaches, or climb the giant boulders at Halwego Viewpoint, which looks out over the verdant landscape. Travelers looking to disconnect from everything should consider a trip to Lake Victoria's islands.

When planning a trip to Lake Victoria's tropical islands, you'll need a place to stay. Luckily, there are plenty of chic waterfront hotels to choose from for a refreshing and underrated tropical adventure. A great option on Bugala Island is the Brovad Sands Lodge, a laid-back resort boasting its own private sandy beach. The spacious rooms are simple yet elegant, with deluxe suites offering private balconies to enjoy the lake view. Guests can lounge by the pool, or arrange excursions like forest hikes, quad bike tours, and even fishing. A previous guest called it a "slice of heaven".

For stays on Mfangano Island, consider Siambi Resort, which sits right on the lakefront. Guests can sunbathe on the beach or relax with a drink at the bar while basking in the refreshing lake atmosphere. "Siambi is the best place to be," wrote a previous visitor on Google reviews. Retreat to cozy jungle bungalows at Mfangano Island Lodge, called "a true hidden gem" by a previous guest. Jump in the pool to cool off, and enjoy farm-fresh dinners with waterfront panoramas from the lush green lawns fringed by tropical foliage. The resort also offers guided hiking tours to nearby villages, mountain bike trips, and excursions to Mawanga Cave to explore the rock artwork.

Travelers to Ukerewe Island should spend a night at the BM Beach Hotel, where palm trees sway above the buttery sand beach. Though the rooms are simple, guests can unwind amidst the tranquil waterfront scenery. Another option is the Dickson BV Homestay, rated "Wonderful" on Booking.com. Guests can retreat to thatched-roof bungalows fronted by green lawns dotted with palm trees, and wake up to breakfast in the garden.