Kosupa Travel

Continuing from my previous article where I sought shelter from the rain while enjoying the traditional energy drink “Obusera,” I was finally able to continue my journey to the port town of Ggaba along the shores of Lake Victoria.

Read the previous article here:

Obusera, Traditional Energy Drink at a Local Market in Southern Kampala

What is Ggaba?

Ggaba, or Gaba, is a suburban area located at the southern end of Kampala, situated on the northern shore of Lake Victoria, the world’s third-largest lake. Ggaba is renowned as a prominent fishing town in Uganda and inland Africa, known for its production of Nile perch and tilapia from Lake Victoria.

In Ggaba, not only can you enjoy freshly caught fish, but you can also experience the majestic Lake Victoria by floating on a boat. This unique blend of local life and the great African outdoors intrigued me.

I took a motorcycle taxi from Kampala to Ggaba. As the port town came into view, I was struck by its bustling, chaotic scene, characteristic of Africa.

And finally, this is the chaotic Ggaba port. Looks very energetic doesn’t it?

A Boat Excursion on Lake Victoria

The primary goal of my visit was to eat freshly caught Nile perch from Lake Victoria. However, having already had some Obusera while sheltering from the rain, I decided to take a short excursion on the lake to make room for the upcoming feast.

I approached the fishermen and asked if they could take me on a short boat ride. They agreed, and I quickly boarded a boat.

In Ggaba, speedboats are not very common. Instead, traditional fishing methods using hand-paddled wooden boats are still prevalent. The sailors who guided me today were full-time fishermen.

As we paddled away from the shore, the coastline gradually receded.

Ggaba is located in a slightly intricate bay-like area of Lake Victoria. While you can see land in three directions, it doesn’t feel like you’re on the third-largest lake in the world. However, the grandiosity of Africa’s nature is palpable in the atmosphere.

The Cost of the Experience

This 30-minute excursion cost nearly 1,000 yen. Considering Ugandan standards, it seemed a bit pricey, but I was content with the experience of feeling the grandeur of Lake Victoria firsthand.

In the next installment, I will share a taste test report of the Nile perch, a delicacy of Lake Victoria.

Uganda Travel Dialogue: Fresh Nile Perch by Lake Victoria Port Town Ggaba – Part 2