Mystical Crater Lake — Lake Chala Day Tour

Immerse yourself in untouched nature, panoramic views & serenity on the edge of Tanzania and Kenya

Lake Chala Day Tour

Embark on a full-day escape to Lake Chala — a stunning crater lake on the Tanzania–Kenya border, where turquoise waters, lush forest, and tranquil scenery await just a few hours from Arusha.

Itinerary Overview

Lake Chala is a volcanic crater lake formed roughly 250 000 years ago, fed by underground streams from Mount Kilimanjaro and surrounded by dramatic cliffs and rainforest. From Arusha (or Moshi) it makes for a serene, off-the-beaten-track day trip with hiking, kayaking, swimming and lush nature.

Day Activities

Morning: Departure & Scenic Drive

Depart early from your Arusha hotel and enjoy the scenic drive toward Lake Chala. Keep an eye out for wildlife and forest along the route. Arrival at the crater rim mid-morning offers breathtaking views.

Midday: Hike to the Lake & Picnic Lunch

Descend the crater rim trail through lush vegetation to the lakeshore. Once there, enjoy a picnic lunch and choose between a relaxing swim or a paddle on the pristine lake waters.

Afternoon: Leisure by the Lake & Return to Arusha

Spend the afternoon at your leisure – explore the shoreline, go kayaking, observe birds, or simply relax by the water. Later, depart back to Arusha arriving in the late afternoon/early evening.

Inclusions

  • ✔ Hotel pick-up & drop-off in Arusha
  • ✔ All transport in a comfortable vehicle
  • ✔ Entrance fees & local guide
  • ✔ Picnic lunch and bottled water
  • ✔ Hiking trail to lake & equipment for kayaking (optional)

Exclusions

  • ✖ Tips for guide and driver
  • ✖ Personal travel insurance
  • ✖ Optional equipment rental (kayak, swim gear)
  • ✖ Alcoholic drinks and souvenirs
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Quick Facts

  • Distance from Arusha: ~2 hours drive (depending on traffic & route)
  • Elevation: crater rim approx. 880 m above sea level
  • Activities: Hiking, Lake swim, Kayaking, Bird-watching
  • Unique feature: Crystal clear turquoise waters fed from Mount Kilimanjaro’s underground springs

TRANSFERS


Transfers can be arranged between the airport, Arusha/Moshi, between hotels, restaurants and attractions, either on a seat-in-coach basis, or the private hire of an entire vehicle. All pick-up times are arranged to tie in with flight departures and scheduled tours. Our guides work to this timetable, collecting guests from each hotel en route to their intended destination.

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Materuni Waterfalls

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Mount Kilimanjaro

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