Lundo Island: A strategic investment in sustainable tourism

RUVUMA: LUNDO Island is a small, 20-hectare island located in the middle of Lake Nyasa, approximately a 45-minute boat ride from the town of Mbambabay or just 10 minutes from Lipingo Village in Lipingo Ward, Nyasa District, Ruvuma Region.

Beyond its natural beauty and appeal as a habitat for wildlife and diverse bird species, the island carries a deep historical significance. According to the Ruvuma Region website, Lundo Island is more than just a landmass in the lake; it serves as a living memorial to the impacts of war and colonial rule.

After the Majimaji Rebellion, which lasted from 1905 to 1907, German colonial authorities designated the island as a leprosy quarantine centre.

Beginning in 1908, people afflicted with leprosy were brought to the island, isolated from their communities. This was done to contain the spread of the disease, but it was also influenced by the fear and stigma surrounding leprosy at the time. Many years later, this painful history gave way to a new purpose.

The island was reimagined as a wildlife sanctuary and tourist attraction. In 2021, then Ruvuma Regional Commissioner Christina Mndeme directed the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA), which oversees conservation efforts on the island, to introduce wildlife to Lundo as part of an effort to promote tourism in Nyasa District.

The district had been declared a key tourism hub in the region. In collaboration with local tourism stakeholders, Afrikanus Challe, the Ruvuma Regional Natural Resources and Tourism Advisor, implemented this directive by establishing the Mbambabay Conservation Area.

This protected area includes Lundo Island, Mbambabay Island and the surrounding Mbamba, Tumbi and Ndengere mountains. Challe said that the Mbambabay Conservation Area spans 597 hectares, comprising wildlife and bird habitats, as well as mountainous terrain.

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The designated conservation zones include Mbamba Mountain (40 hectares),

Tumbi Mountain (110 hectares), Mbambabay Island (27 hectares), noted for birdwatching and Lundo Island (20 hectares), where TAWA has introduced wildlife.

Maajabu Mbogo, a wildlife officer stationed on Lundo Island, provides more insight into the sanctuary and its attractions.

She said that the island, situated in the Rift Valley within Lake Nyasa, is under TAWA’s management. The sanctuary is home to friendly species such as antelopes, wild rabbits and pangolins, as well as a variety of bird species both native and migratory.

She added that from September to February, the island receives large numbers of migratory birds, particularly from Europe and other parts of the world.

The island is also a haven for ornamental fish. According to Maajabu, there are around 400 species of ornamental fish in the area. Notably, two fish species are endemic to Lundo Island, they cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

“As I walked along the clear shoreline and watched the colourful fish glide beneath the surface, it became clear that Lundo is more than just a tourist spot—it is a sanctuary of rare biodiversity,” said Maajabu.

Tourism activities on the island include wildlife viewing, sport fishing, birdwatching, swimming, hiking and boat rides. Visitors interested in boating on the lake are also accommodated. The wildlife present includes antelopes, pangolins, dik-diks and various types of birds, both local and migratory. Visitors can set up camp for various activities, including honeymoons, group tours and special events.

The site is ideal for couples looking to celebrate their honeymoon or take pre-wedding photos, as well as for families and friends seeking a peaceful retreat. The island also offers opportunities for investment. Investors are encouraged to establish tented camps and provide boat tour services on Lake Nyasa and in the Mbambabay area.

Beyond the wildlife and tourism attractions, the island also features beautiful rock formations both around and beneath the water. Some rocks rise above the lake’s surface, creating a scenic view during boat rides. As one approaches the shore, the calm, clear waters allow for full visibility of the lakebed, including stones of various shapes and sizes.

This clarity enhances the experience of observing the ornamental fish swimming below.

“Few places offer such a seamless blend of history, nature and serenity. Lundo Island is truly a hidden gem in southern Tanzania,” Maajabu emphasised.

Visitors have shared positive feedback about their experiences. Emmanuel Shango, a wildlife officer from the Nyerere Wildlife Reserve in the Southern Zone, expressed his satisfaction with his visit to Lundo Island. He said he learned many new things and enjoyed the beautiful landscape of Lake Nyasa and the island.

Joshua Laizer also shared his experience, saying he felt fortunate to visit Lundo Island in Mbambabay, Nyasa District. He admired the natural beauty, the wildlife, especially the antelopes and the variety of birds, including fish-eating species and small insect-eating birds. He encouraged all Tanzanians to visit Lundo Island and witness the rich natural and cultural heritage it offers.