Why is Mwanza called Rock City?

The city is built among enormous balancing granite boulders that dot the lakeshore and hills, the most famous being Bismarck Rock, which gives Mwanza its distinctive skyline and nickname.

Can I see chimpanzees near Mwanza?

Yes. Rubondo Island National Park, reached by boat or light aircraft, is home to around forty chimpanzees descended from a 1960s release, and offers tracking alongside birdwatching and fishing.

Is Mwanza a good base for the Serengeti?

Very much so. Mwanza is the main gateway to the western Serengeti, well positioned for the Grumeti river crossings of the Great Migration between roughly May and July.

How do I reach Mwanza?

Mwanza Airport (MWZ) has frequent domestic flights from Dar es Salaam and Arusha, and the city is also served by the central railway, long-distance buses and lake ferries.

Mwanza & Lake Victoria — Events — verified guides & travel directory for Tanzania

June (around Corpus Christi)

Bulabo Sukuma Dance Festival

A vibrant Sukuma cultural festival at Bujora with competitive drumming and the famous snake and porcupine dances.

8 August (annual)

Nane Nane (Farmers' Day)

A national agricultural fair celebrated across the Lake Zone with exhibitions of farming, livestock and local produce.

7 July (annual)

Saba Saba (Industry Day)

A public holiday and trade celebration marking Tanzanian industry and commerce, observed with markets and events in Mwanza.

Varies

Lake Victoria festivals

Seasonal fishing and cultural gatherings in lakeside communities celebrating the traditions and livelihoods of Lake Victoria.

Mwanza & Lake Victoria

Events & festivals

Bulabo Sukuma Dance Festival

Nane Nane (Farmers' Day)

Saba Saba (Industry Day)

Lake Victoria festivals