About Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria is one of the African great lakes with a surface area of 59,947 km2, and it is Africa’s largest lake by area, the world’s largest tropical lake and the world’s second largest fresh water lake by surface area after Lake Superior in North America and in terms of volume, Lake Victoria is the world’s ninth largest continental lake containing about 2,424 km3 of water and it occupies a shallow depression in Africa. The lake’s area is divided among three countries namely Tanzania occupying 49%, Uganda 45% and Kenya 6%.
Many mammal species live in the region of Lake Victoria, and some are closely associated with the lake itself and the nearby wetlands. Some of these include; hippos, African clawless otter, marsh mongoose, sitatunga, defassa waterbucks and a lot more
Lake Victoria and its wetlands also have a large population of Nile crocodiles, African helmeted turtles, variable mud turtles, and William’s mud turtle The Williams’ mud turtle is restricted to Lake Victoria and other lakes, rivers, and swamps in the upper Nile basin. Unlike other Lake Victoria cichlids, Haplochromis nyererei remains common, compared to several other cichlids, and its eyes are particularly sensitive to light especially red which is less affected by the decrease in water clarity. Lake Victoria formerly was very rich in fish with many endemics, but a high percentage of these became extinct since the 1940s.
Kenya is one of the biggest safari destinations in East Africa, however when it comes to wildlife, it is mainly known because of Masai Mara game reserve when you cross to Kenya during your road trip. Taking a 4×4 road trip safari around Lake Victoria in Kenya can be an incredible adventure when you choose to consider these 10 tips to consider for a successful and enjoyable journey.
1. Vehicle preparation
Ensure your 4×4 vehicle is in good condition before embarking on the trip by checking the tires, brakes, lights and engine fluids. Endeavor to carry a spare tire, jack and basic tools for minor repairs. This is always considered in order to avoid any accidents and also being stuck on roads during your safari. A vehicle needs a thorough check in order to make sure that it offers the best safari road experience.
2. Navigation and maps
Have detailed maps and GPS navigation to help you navigate or know the best routes or the common routes to Lake Victoria. The maps and navigation help you familiarize yourself with the planned itinerary and any alternative routes. These items will help you to stay on track and not to lose your way to your destination which may cause delay while travelling hence interrupting your safari.
3. Travel documentation
Carry all necessary travel documents including your passport, driver’s license and vehicle registration documents and also ensure you have any required permits or visas for the areas you are visiting. These documents will help you not to be bounced at the gates of your destination and also to avoid paying extra cash or costs in order to access your safari destination.
4. Accommodation and camping gear
When you are planning to camp, make sure you have the necessary gear such as; tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment and food supplies. Alternatively, if you plan to stay in lodges or hotels make sure you do your reservations in advance to avoid congestion and lack of accommodation areas or rooms and sometimes it helps you to have less costs when you reserve earlier.
5. Water and supplies
Always ensure to carry drinking water for the journey especially if you are travelling through remote areas where clean water may not be easily available and also stock up on non-perishable food items to avoid regrets when you are out of options and ideas on how to solve your problem.
6. Safety and first aid
Remember to pack a comprehensive first aid kits that include basic medical supplies like insect repellants, sunscreen and any prescription medication that you may need and you must have basic knowledge on first aid. This will help you to easily take care of yourself during the safari to remain healthy until the departure.
7. Wildlife and nature observation
Before you travel, especially on a safari, remember to pack a binocular, camera incase you have one, and wildlife guide books to enhance your wildlife and nature experience viewing and also to respect the animals by keeping a distance and not disturbing their natural behaviors in order to avoid penalties in case of any damage.
8. Respect local customs and regulations
Formalize yourself with local customs and regulations of the area provided by the destination authorities or local communities in order to be able to build friendship and keep in good terms with the local people. The rules of the area when you follow them, it helps you access help quickly due to the obedience and good behavior shown to the people and authorities around.
9. Fuel and supplies
Fill up you fuel car tank whenever possible, especially in remote areas where fuel stations ay be scarce, and also carry extra fuel containers for added security to avoid being stuck on remote routes or destinations where getting help may become a problem. When you are self-equipped, your safari will always be of the best experience in a lifetime.
10. Emergency contacts and communications
Always have a reliable means of communication such as a satellite phone or a radio in case of emergencies. Also, carry a list of contacts including local authorities and contacts back home. When you have emergency communications or contacts, this helps you to be updated about the situations like weather climates, accidents, safety and more as a way of sensitization to prepare and be on alert for defense and protection.
Always remember to practice responsible tourism by minimizing your impact on the environment, by respecting local communities, following the no trace principles and always be aware of wildlife and drive safely especially in areas where animals may be crossing the road.
Enjoy a safari 4×4 road trip around Lake Victoria which can give you breath taking landscapes, diverse wildlife and unique cultural experiences making your safari the best in Kenya with four wheeled Land cruisers that are tough for tough roads and also giving you the best relaxed experience drive in Kenya.