Mwanza City, History and Saanane Island Discovery
After a hearty breakfast at a nice hotel in the heart of Mwanza City, you will be picked up by an experienced tour guide waiting in the hotel parking area, ready to take you around the city. In the morning, the tour starts with a 30-minute drive to Bujora Sukuma Museum.
Along the way, the guide will introduce the city's historical background as you travel to Bujora Sukuma Museum. At Bujora, you will have time to experience and learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Wasukuma, the largest tribe in Tanzania.
After spending a good hour at Bujora, you will return to continue the city tour.
Along Musoma Road, you will have time to visit the Mv Bukoba Grave Yard, where hundreds were buried after the heartbreaking steam ferry accident on Lake Victoria in 1996. A stop here also offers the chance to learn some history about the Arusha Declaration in Mwanza, where the late Mwl. Nyerere, the father of the nation, walked on foot from Butiama to Mwanza to implant his philosophy of socialism and self-reliance.
Come to the German Gallow Tree and the First Prison in Mwanza. Mwanza's history is closely connected with the Germans. At Mwanza Zero, you will have time to explore and discover more about this heritage, starting with the hanging tree, the court, and the first prison built by Germans in Mwanza. Your guide will share more about the hidden treasures of Mwanza.
The interesting history of liberation struggles leads you to the historical Ladha Meghji Indian Public Library. Most guests are shocked when they first hear about an association called the "Pan African Freedom Movement for East and Central Africa" (PAFMECA). The association was formed as a result of a two-day secret meeting held in this library in 1958.
Explore Gunzert House, located on Nyamagana Hill and built by the Germans in 1912. It was built specifically for the German District Commissioner. The building was named after an outstanding German Governor, "Gunzert."
After having lunch at Kijiji Bar & Grill, visit the Samaki Monument Roundabout located in the city centre, learn the history behind the monument, and take some good photos.
Admire Bismarck Rock, the iconic symbol that represents the Mwanza Region. The geological formation and the story behind its name are always exciting parts of the visit. It is also a nice place to see the sunset and take memorable photos while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of great Lake Victoria.
Continue to Saanane Island National Park, the smallest park in Tanzania and East Africa, located at the city centre. After registration and clearance at Saanane's office, it takes about five minutes to reach the island by modern boat. The island offers an opportunity for a walking safari, wildlife experiences, picnic centres, and finally a place that makes the island even more attractive, the "Stone Jumping Point."
Check out Rock City Shopping Mall. After a very long and fantastic tour, you will have time to enter Rock City Mall, a place with supermarkets, banks, bureau de change, shops, cinemas, boutiques, and more. The mall provides a safe opportunity for shopping, financial transactions, and relaxation.
Head back to the hotel, where you will spend a few minutes with the guide and enjoy a farewell dinner.
