Lake Chala
TOUR
Lake Chala, located east of Mount Kilimanjaro, is an insider tip and definitly worth a visit. This unique crater lake formed by a vulcanic eruption approximately 250,000 years ago and is surrounded by a steep crater rim with a maximum height of 170 meters (560 ft). The lake is thought to be the deepest inland body of water in Africa. It is fed by underground springs from Mount Kilimanjaro and straddles the border between Kenya and Tanzania.
​We will take you on a hike through the lake´s shore forest where you will see its huge variety of amazing trees and plants, some unique to the area. According to the time of year there are also hundreds of species of butterflies and birds, including spectacular birds of prey. The African Fish Eagle, with its haunting techniques, Verreaux’s Eagle, Augur Buzzards and many other species of birds can be seen around the crater walls. Wild mammals do vary including Blue Monkeys, Colobus Monkeys, baboons, dik-dik, kudu and elephant. Lake Chala is an untouched part of a truly ancient land.
Itinerary
We offer Lake Chala as a one day or a two day trip with an overnight camping near the lake where you can enjoy the beautiful view. This tour is also very nice as a bike tour.
We will pick you up at your hotel in the morning and take you to Lake Chala (50km from Moshi). You have the option to go there by vehicle (1:30 hours) or cycling (5-6 hours). If you like to go by bike, it will be better to camp and make it a 2 day trip, so you will have enough time to enjoy the lake and it´s stunning nature.
Activities at this lake are:
- Cycling
- Hiking
- Canoeing
- Walking Safari (with a professional guide)
- We do not recommend to swim in the lake, although you see people doing it and it is not prohibited. But we don´t consider it safe, because of the lake´s depths and a small chance to encounter crocodiles in the water (mostly at night).
What´s included:
- Transport from and to Moshi / Arusha
- Goverment entrance fee
- English speaking guide
- Canoeing fee
For 1 day trip:
- Lunch box
For 2 day trip:
- Camping fee
- All meals (2x hot lunch, 1 hot dinner, 1 breakfast)
