Lake Victoria is the world’s second largest fresh water lake. It lies between the two rift branches of the Rift Valley. The lake is at an altitude of 1.134 metres above sea level and it is 82 metres deep. In the lake, there used to be more than 400 fish species. To promote sports fishing, the Nile Perch and the Nile Tilapia were introduced to the lake in the 1960’s, and they are now believed to have caused a dramatic fall in the number of the other fish species. Fishing is an important industry in Ukerewe District and a lot of fishing boats, as well as canoes and traditional dhows, can be seen plying the narrow waters between the many smaller islands.
hamlets, where the local fishermen land their night’s catch. Ukerewe is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially at the west shore and on its smaller islands. Here is found an abundance of different birds including the beautiful Fishing Eagle, Cormorants, and an occasional Crowned Crane. Sports fishing are possible on almost any location around the island.

Ukerewe Island is 50 kms long and between 25 to 35 kms wide. It is a rocky island with smaller hills. The subsoil is dominated by crystalline rocks - from the oldest Precambrian earth period-, which are strongly lateralised. The landscape varies between flat land, cassava and rice fields, fruit plantations, rocks, rocky and sandy shores, beautiful lakeshores, and pine forest. The main town on Ukerewe is Nansio; where the ferries from Mwanza arrive and as well accommodate the district headquarter.
Most inhabitants are living in the many traditional villages scattered around the island.