The location of Victoria and its area km2. Lake Victoria in Africa. African Lake Victoria
There are three central African countries around Lake Victoria - Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya. The White Nile flows from this reservoir. Introducing Interesting Facts about Lake Victoria.
Research
Scientists believe that the lake was formed 400 thousand years ago. Geologists claim that the lake completely dried up several times. The last time it dried up was about 17 thousand years ago.
The first map of the lake was created by Arab merchants in 1160 AD.
The name of the lake in honor of the English Queen Victoria was given by the British explorer John Henning Speke, who made a fascinating journey and studied geographical feature in 1858. He claimed that the Nile River flows from the reservoir, and it is the lake that is the source of this largest African river (it was considered the longest in the world, but the South American Amazon turned out to be a little longer).
Geography
The lake is the third largest in the world by area, the second largest in the world among freshwater lakes, the largest in Africa, and also the largest in the world among lakes located in the tropics. The area is almost 70 thousand square kilometers. Only the Caspian Sea (salt) and North American Lake Superior (freshwater) lakes are larger.
The most great depth- 84 meters, average depth - 40 meters. The maximum length is 322 kilometers, the maximum width is 275 kilometers.
80% of the water in the lake is brought by rains, 20% of the water is brought by rivers that flow into the reservoir. The most large river, flowing into the lake - Kagera, its tributary Rivubu is considered the source of the Nile.
Nature
Lake Victoria - interesting facts about nature. The lake is home to lang fish, which, according to scientists, lived 300 million years ago.
There are many Nile crocodiles in the waters - these are the second largest crocodiles on the planet, reaching six meters in length. In water, a crocodile reaches speeds of up to 30 kilometers per hour, on land - up to 17 kilometers per hour. This predator is very dangerous; thousands of people die from its teeth every year.
There is a hippopotamus in the lake. Hippos can attack the boat and capsize it. These seemingly clumsy animals kill many people every year. Hippopotamuses reach five meters in length and can weigh up to five tons.
On Rubondo Island there is a nature reserve, which is home to about 500 species of birds. The most common are pelicans, herons, flamingos, eagles, and ibises. Many tourists come to see the birds. Rubondo Island also has a significant population of sitatunga antelope, whose backs are covered with vertical white stripes, so they vaguely resemble a zebra.
Among the large herbivores there are buffaloes and elephants, and among the smaller herbivores there are brown-red antelopes, waterbucks, and topis.
Among the plants, the most common are date palms, mimosa, tamarisk, cypress, and acacia.
Ecology
The water of the lake is polluted by fertilizers, which are washed off by rain from the fields, as well as by petroleum products.
At the end of the 20th century, water hyacinth was introduced into the lake. Since the plant has no natural enemies, it began to multiply quickly, and today it occupies large area lakes. Plants are placed so densely that not enough sunlight gets into the water column, and animals and animals suffer from this. vegetable world lakes.
Industrial fishing also harms the ecology of the reservoir. Three decades ago there were 500 species of fish in the lake; now about 200 species of fish have survived.
Every person visiting Kenya should never miss the opportunity to experience the unique and exciting attractions of this African country. And anyone who wants to make their holiday in Kenya unforgettable - in the good sense of the word - should definitely go to Lake Victoria.
Lake Victoria is believed to have been discovered by African explorer John Henning Speke in 1858. Although in fact the first information about the lake dates back to 1160. Arab traders traveled these lands in search of gold and other valuables. They depicted Lake Victoria on the ancient map of Idrisi; even then it was considered the source of the Nile.
Geographical coordinates lakes on the map: 1°04?00? Yu. latitude 32°52?00? V. longitude.
Here's where Lake Victoria is located on the world map:
Sorry, the card is temporarily unavailable Sorry, the card is temporarily unavailable
Lake Victoria was formed as a result of the uplift of the surrounding land. Today its height above sea level is 1134 m.
Length: 320 km. Width: 275 km Area: 68,000 km. sq. The depth of the lake can reach up to 80 meters in places, but on average it is 40 meters.
Lake Victoria is the second largest freshwater lake in the world and, at the same time, the most big lake Africa. It is considered the most important of all the sources of the Nile. The lake got its name from the English Queen Victoria (as did Victoria Falls, by the way). But not only the lake itself, which rather looks like an inland sea, but also the surrounding landscapes are among the unique and most beautiful sights of Kenya. Travel to this part of the country is recommended by everyone who has been here. This attractive, natural attraction in Kenya is unique in many ways. Firstly, here you can conduct a full and interesting vacation. First of all, tourists who dream of relaxing in nature will feel like they are in paradise here. Here guests can get acquainted with the diverse flora and fauna of these regions. The state border with Tanzania and Uganda runs right along the surface of the lake. There are many islands on the lake that can be reached by boat or speedboat. Probably the most beautiful of all the islands are the islands of Mfangano and Rubondo. It is considered particularly attractive and adds a special charm to a holiday in Kenya. And the opportunities for sports, on and in the lake itself, complement big picture. Fishing lovers will not be able to help but fall in love with these places – it’s simply impossible.
The local waters are famous for the extraordinary diversity of species of its inhabitants. In Africa, a similar diversity of underwater fauna can be found, in addition to Lake Victoria, only in lakes Malawi and Tanganyika. And this fact also turns this lake into one of the most attractive places in Africa. The lake is home to one of the most unusual fish in the world - protoptera. The uniqueness of the protopter is that it can breathe through both gills and lungs. This is the connecting link between fish and us.
Photo: These are the cows found near Lake Victoria in Africa. ©Antony Kaminju
But the attractions of Kenya in this part of it are not limited to the lake itself. The territories adjacent to the lake (see African savanna) in themselves are worthy of getting to know them closely. The people living here are incredibly hospitable and friendly, showing their openness even to complete strangers. Here and there along the shores of the lake you can see not only small sleepy fishing villages, but also quite large port cities. Three countries - Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda - are firmly connected by sea, or rather lake routes. Trade between these states is carried out primarily using water transport.
Landscape beauties, too, will not leave anyone indifferent. Describing all these pictures is a thankless and difficult task. To be convinced of the truth of these words, you need to see everything with your own eyes. Traveling to Kenya is unforgettable experience. And Lake Victoria will not be the last place in them.
Video: Lake Victoria and the Nile. Fishing, rafting and kayaking. From the program “Around the World”
Africa's Lake Victoria is located in the heart of Equatorial Africa. Its waters are located on the territory of three states: Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. This is one of the most picturesque lakes on this continent. Its area is 68 thousand km². The average depth does not exceed eighty meters. It was named after its discoverer D. Speke. Locals call it Nyanza, which means "big water".
Lake Victoria is located quite high, reaching 1134m. In terms of the size of its water area, it exceeds the Aral and Azov Seas and ranks third after the Caspian Sea and in the territory North America. The lake is full. The surrounding shores are mostly low and swampy. And only the southwestern shores abruptly drop into the lake with steep cliffs.
African hell
Lake Victoria is one of the most dangerous waters for navigation. Its low banks open the way to all winds, and its high location above sea level makes the weather unstable. Storms and hurricanes often occur here, accompanied by the appearance of tornadoes. The climate here is quite terrible. Sweltering heat combined with high humidity during the wet season is followed by long periods of severe drought. Myriads of poisonous insects await their victims. This reservoir evaporates millions of tons of water and never becomes shallow. And yet, where Lake Victoria is located, Africa has been preserved in its most pristine form. The pond is teeming with fish. This attracts millions of waterfowl, both local and migratory. Here you can also find few of which are left in other places.
African Nessie
Lake Victoria has its own Nessie. Only, unlike the Scottish one, the local one is seen quite often. Eyewitnesses describe it as an animal 4.5 m in length. His head is the size of a lion's. Two white fangs protrude from its mouth. It is covered with scales and has a wide spotted back, as well as a thick and long tail. The animal is very aggressive. Perhaps it's a dinosaur. But Lake Victoria is very young education. It was formed only 750 thousand years ago, when dinosaurs had already become extinct.
Drought
Unprecedented drought recent years in Africa led to the fact that the water level in the reservoir decreased by 1 meter, which had never happened before. This led to the shutdown of many hydroelectric power plants located in its basin. This greatly undermines the economy of the entire lakeside region. In addition, the environmental situation has deteriorated greatly. The waters are poisoned by chemical fertilizers, sewage, and uncontrolled waste discharges from enterprises.
Interesting Facts
Some interesting facts.
Lake Victoria produced the United States' first black president. His father grew up on its banks in Kenya in the town of Nyagoma Kogelo.
Only on this lake can you find the sitatunga antelope, which has disappeared in other places.
And only in these waters lives the extraordinary lang fish, whose gills work on the principle of lungs. Such fish gave rise to land animals.
Lake Victoria is a vast natural body of water fresh water- the largest lake by area on the African continent. It is rich in flora, fauna and many species of exotic animals.
Local population calls it "Nyanza", which literally means "big water". The world map shows that the lake is located in the eastern part of Africa and is included in the territory of three states: Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.
Lake Victoria is located in eastern Africa along the equator. Tourists are attracted different kinds flowers and fish, as well as unique nature reserves. Visitors will not be left indifferent by the beautiful natural landscapes. Lake Victoria is great place for professional fishermen, but this activity is dangerous.
After all, there is a possibility that fishermen could become prey, since the lake is rife with crocodiles. Thanks to this, hunting tours for extreme sports enthusiasts have been created. Some animal species are on the verge of extinction due to frequent hunting activities.
Many tourists are attracted by the unique nature reserves that are formed around the lake. You can see their location on the map. Lake Victoria has endemic species of animals and plants. Its waters are home to a special species of lang fish, which, according to scientists, lived here about three hundred million years ago. It is impossible to find lang fish anywhere in the world.
Among the reserves there is a particularly famous park; its area is inhabited by more than half a thousand species of birds. The park is located on Rubondo Island. The island provides an opportunity for scientists to study various species of animals in the natural environment. There is a chance of meeting the Sitatunga antelope in the park.
Most visitors want to visit the island to meet the unique beauty of the animal. The antelope is attracted to lakes and marshy areas. Only walking is allowed in the park; driving is prohibited, in order to preserve nature.
Saanane Island is located in Tanzania, it is the smallest national park in this city. Also Mgingo Island, which is popular for fishing.
Lake Victoria can be reached by plane to the airport in the city of Mwanza or by train. Next, it is better to get to the lake shore by car or taxi. This will add up to about half an hour's drive. 
It is advisable to visit National parks from November to March. During this period, on the islands of the southwestern part the climate becomes humid, and tropical downpours begin. Thanks to this, the area acquires beautiful wildflowers and more than 30 species of orchids.
Origin of Lake Victoria and its name
Until 1920, the lake was called Victoria Nyanza. The lake was then named by an English traveler in honor of Queen Victoria. Due to the fact that the lake borders three states, it goes by several names. In 1960, there were proposals by countries to give the lake one name. But there was no final decision.
Study and development of Lake Victoria
The lake was discovered by the English traveler John Henning Speke. It was he who gave the name to the lake. The development of the lake took place on July 30, 1858. 
John Speke suggested that the reservoir originates from the Nile. After Henry Stanley's expedition returned, John Speke's claim was confirmed.
History of Lake Victoria
According to scientists, the reservoir arose due to the formation of the Eduard and Albert depressions. Their location was in the fault zone in eastern Africa. This happened in the middle of the Anthropocene period. The place where the watercourse originated was facing east, on a plateau trough. Formed large body of water, the volume of which was considered enormous.
Physiographic characteristics of Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria is read as a relict lake. The shores of the lake are swampy, heavily indented, low and flat. Victoria has wonderful sandy beaches. For example, the shores of Saanane Island are mostly rocky, but there are also gently sloping areas. Around the lake there are savannas, to the north-west of the coast there is an equatorial forest with a humid climate.
Depth of Lake Victoria In some places, the transparency of the lake can reach up to 8 m. Thanks to the large number of islands and bays, a variety of underwater landscapes are created: sandy soils, rocky screes. Lake Victoria exceeds its size Sea of Azov, which is why it is often called the sea.
During periods of strong hurricanes, bays and bays provide shelter for ships. According to scientific research, it is believed that Lake Victoria had a larger area than it does today. At that time, the lake covered the entire area of Uganda. His East Coast had a border with Lake Rudolph. It is not uncommon for the water level on Lake Victoria to fluctuate.
A large amount of water rise was noted in 1961-1964. Length coastline more than 7000 km. The height above sea level is 1134 m. The area of the lake is more than 68 thousand km2. The greatest depth of the reservoir is 80 m. The length is more than 300 km and the width is more than 200 km. The average depth of the lake is 40 m.
Lake Victoria is significantly different on the world map; it is larger in area than most lakes. The lake has numerous islands, the largest of which are the islands of Kome, Ukerewe, and Mansome.
Climate
The climate is equatorial-tropical. It rains in two seasons a year. Due to the large amount of water in the lake, the climate is moderated within a radius of about 80 km. There is a decrease in air dryness and temperature.
Seasons are distinguished by the amount of precipitation. There are periods of heavy rain in the summer, leading to flooding, and in the winter there is less rainfall. There may be no precipitation during the month during the winter period.
In summer, about 1700 ml can be poured out almost every day. precipitation. This often happens during the tropical rainy season. In April and May, precipitation occurs more often - these are especially rainy months. 
In one month, Lake Victoria receives approximately 250 ml of water. The air temperature very rarely drops below +26 °C. The water temperature of the upper layer can heat up to +24 °C. As a rule, there is no frost or snow in this area.
Hurricanes and tornadoes are possible, so the lake is considered one of the most dangerous places in the world. In addition, the territory of Lake Victoria has a large number of poisonous insects. Due to the hot climate, a large volume of water evaporates, but there is no shallow water body.
The enormous evaporation is offset by tropical rainfall. The climate is very changeable; hot weather can be replaced by cold and wet wind within a day. This is due to the fact that the lake is located above sea level.
Precipitation in millimeters from 1956 to 1978:
Flora and fauna
Reeds, papyrus, and banana palms are often found on the coast. The most common plants are: acacia, mimosa, cypress.
Lake Victoria is located on the world map picturesque islands. Hippos, flamingos, and Venetian cranes live here. This is where some species of fish are found that can live in an aquarium. There are more than 300 thousand species of aquatic inhabitants in the lake, of which species are known that do not live anywhere else. 
The lake is inhabited by fireback, crimson, and representatives of the cichlid family. They differ in one feature - when danger approaches, the fry tend to hide in the female’s mouth. When the danger has passed, they swim out. The lake is home to an unusual species of fish called protoptera.
The fish is distinguished by the fact that it can breathe not only with gills, but also with lungs. The island is home to various species of exotic butterflies. A variety of venomous snakes can be seen here, so it is advisable to have a guide.
In the Rubondo Nature Reserve you can find green monkeys, hippopotamuses, porcupines, rhinoceroses, elephants, chimpanzees, mongooses, and giraffes. A variety of birds decorate the shores of the lake, in a variety of bright colors.
Varieties of birds can be found here: storks, eagles, cormorants, royal kingfishers, ibises. New species of fish appear in the lake. About 5 species were found that differ in their color. 
The lake is home to Nile perch, which can reach up to 1 m in length. The presence of hippopotamuses in the lake sometimes leads to the death of people. The weight of the animal varies from 1.5 to 4 tons, so it can easily overturn a boat.
Flowing rivers
The rivers that flow into the lake bring about 18% of the water.
Some rivers flowing into Lake Victoria and their characteristics:
- The Kagera River is the main river that flows into the reservoir from the east, its length is more than 30 km.
- Nzoia is about 250 km long, located in Kenya, and is an important natural resource, has many waterfalls.
Ecological state
The ecological state of Lake Victoria is in great danger. This is happening due to the rapid cutting down of trees along the entire coast. In addition, the population along the coast is increasing. Due to global warming, the amount of precipitation is decreasing - this is another reason for the reduction in the volume of water in the lake.
Due to the fact that the shores of Lake Victoria are gradually populated by people, the environment is suffering More than 40% of the fish disappears, because the enterprises drain dirty water, as well as sewage water from local settlements. The bottom of the lake is polluted with various wastes and chemicals. During periods of heavy rain, some of the fertilizer is washed off from the fields and pollutes Victoria. To increase the number of fish, Nile perch was introduced into the reservoir, then many fish in the lake disappeared.
This damage was enormous and largely irreparable. In addition, water lilies brought to Africa harmed the lake and their inhabitants. Water lilies are very resilient and have strong reproduction.
In 1990, the fish population in the lake greatly decreased, the reason being water lilies, which absorb large amounts of oxygen. Also, their antennae block the inflow and outflow of water, and this complicates navigation. 
During the 20th century, the level of phosphorus in Lake Victoria doubled due to the proliferation of Nile perch, as well as overcrowding and deforestation. Perhaps this is what led to the emergence of cyanobacteria, which causes the destruction of fish.
The Owen Falls dam allowed the water level to rise to 3 m. Environmentalists warn that within 60 years all aquatic life may die due to the entry of harmful chemicals into the reservoir. Local residents, as well as some organizations, participate in the conservation of the reservoir. Experts recommend reducing fishing and chemical pollution of the lake.
How Lake Victoria is used
The majority of the local population grows coffee, bamboo and cotton. There are several ports on the coast of the lake, and shipping is active. Residents of Africa use the fresh water of Lake Victoria. There is good development here water transport, organized major ports.
Near Africa there is a large deposit of gold and diamonds. Nile perch is well purchased for the European population, at an expensive price. The local population is engaged in fishing; fish processing takes place in factories near the coast of Lake Victoria.
Recreational resources of Lake Victoria
Thanks to the construction of a power plant on the shore and basin of the lake, the lake's hydro resources are visible. The leakage of Lake Victoria occurs in a village located in the city of Uganda. About 12 thousand years ago, the White Nile was located in this area. 
This section of the river has broken through a dam made of rocks and rocks. In 1952, a power plant was created. Engineers have improved this natural dam and reservoir. In 2002, a second power plant was established. According to research by hydrologists, it was revealed that a large leak of water through power plants led to a huge change in the water level in the reservoir.
- Lake Victoria has the bulk of fresh water. It is considered one of the largest freshwater bodies of water on the entire planet.
- According to geologists, it is believed that the lake dried up several times.
- More than 34 million people live around the lake. The area of Lake Victoria is comparable to the territory of Ireland.
- The history of Victoria begins about 400 thousand years ago.
- Due to the lake being infected with schistomatosis, you cannot swim in it.
- There is a fly on the shore of the lake that infects people with sleeping sickness.
- In this area it is possible to become infected with yellow fever or malaria.
- Lake Victoria has more than 2000 islands.
Despite the deteriorating ecology and reduction in heavy rains, the lake preserves unique species of animals. A visit to this place will allow you to enjoy the picturesque nature and meet rare ichthyofauna. On the world map you can see all the rivers flowing into Lake Victoria. Some of them have beautiful waterfalls.
Article format: Vladimir the Great
Video about Lake Victoria
Travel to Lake Victoria:
Our planet is amazingly picturesque and diverse. It captivates travelers with its wonderful reservoirs, mighty rocks, and spacious plains. Located in Africa, USA wonderful lake- Victoria. If we consider the first area, it occupies three large stretches of land: Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. It covers each of the regions and in total is 68 thousand square kilometers. Its width is 275 km, and its depth is no more than 80 meters. The lake was first found and explored in 1858 by traveler Speke. He decided to name his discovery himself and notify the authorities about it. As you know, the lake began to be called Victoria (in honor of the English queen). It is considered highland, as it is located in a tectonic trough, and is also located at an altitude of 1134 m above sea level.
Interesting information
Lake Victoria has long been considered a sea. All this is due to the enormous size and depth of the waters. It occupies the third position in size among freshwater lakes and has the shape of a giant irregular oval. The length is 350 km, and the width is on average 200 km. Sometimes there are wetlands, less often - crystal clear ones. Along the perimeter there are rocks that drop off sharply and create the impression of a giant shield. Lake Victoria is full of headlands, bays and peninsulas. They connect perfectly, flow into each other and create indescribable landscapes. Ships that cross the lake usually hide in bays during storms and bad weather. The climate here is very unique; it has been formed over many years. It can be swelteringly hot one day and humid and cold the next. Gusts of wind always shake the waters, even huge rocks and capes are not able to protect against this. By the way, the lake was recognized as one of the most dangerous in the world.
Lake in the USA
Lake Victoria (USA) is located east of Michigan. It was discovered by the French and is replete with islands. Its area is 59,600 square kilometers and its depth is 229 meters. According to legend, many ships sank and are stored in the lake. It is perfect for snorkeling and diving and attracts thousands of tourists every year. In the freshwater body of water, among all the islands, Manitoulin is considered the main and largest.
It should be noted that Lake Victoria (Africa) has nothing in common with the American one. Its area is 68 thousand square kilometers, depth - 80 meters. It is navigable, has a large variety of fish, and its coastline crosses the equator. The only similarity with the US lake is the presence of various islands. It flows into the Kager River and fills the depression between the eastern and western sides of the Great Gorge valley. Thanks to partial rains, the water is constantly replenished and enriched with essential microelements. The lake is home to crocodiles and lang fish (a rare species that lived about 300 years ago). She is able to breathe and trap air in her gills, like in her lungs. Such water inhabitants are considered very rare and at the same time proud local residents. Lake Victoria in Africa is the second largest in the world, compared to other freshwater lakes.