- From $100 /person
- Full day
- Price Includes
About This Activity
Duration: 7–9 hours
Departure: Moshi or Arusha
Destination: Lake Chala (Border of Tanzania & Kenya)
Activity Level: Easy to Moderate
Suitable For: Budget travelers, families, couples, solo travelers, photographers, nature lovers, and student groups
Tour Type: Private or small-group day trip
Overview
The Lake Chala Day Trip is a slow, peaceful escape into nature—without the need for a big safari budget.
Unlike busier attractions, Lake Chala feels untouched and intimate.
As you approach the crater rim, the scenery suddenly opens up to reveal a vast bowl of emerald and turquoise water, surrounded by steep volcanic walls and greenery.
It’s the kind of moment where you pause, breathe deeply, and think: “Wow… this is Tanzania too.”
This tour is ideal if you want:
A quiet break from bustling towns
A beautiful hike without needing high fitness levels
Crystal-clear views, wildlife, and endless photo moments
A refreshing swim (optional) in one of Tanzania’s cleanest crater lakes
A budget-friendly full-day adventure that feels premium
Your professional guide from Affordable International Travel will share local stories, ecological facts, and the fascinating history of this ancient volcanic lake—ensuring the trip is not just scenic, but meaningful too.
Gallery
What to Expect
1. Pickup from Moshi or Arusha – Start Your Journey
Your day begins with a convenient morning pickup. Sit back as you drive through local villages, sisal plantations, and open savanna landscapes toward the Tanzania–Kenya border.
Travel time:
From Moshi: ~1.5 hours
From Arusha: ~3 hours
2. Arrival at Lake Chala – First Views from the Rim
Upon arrival, your guide leads you to the viewpoint overlooking the caldera. The first panorama is breathtaking—glassy blue water, steep crater walls, and a peaceful silence broken only by birds.
3. Guided Nature Walk Around the Crater
Next, enjoy an easy to moderate hike through surrounding forests and along winding trails. Expect to see:
Colorful birds
Beautiful butterflies
Impressive plant life
Occasional small mammals
The hike is calm, scenic, and suitable for most travelers.
4. Descend to the Lakeshore – Optional Swim
If you’re comfortable, you can follow your guide down the steep but manageable path to the lakeshore. The water is clear and refreshing—perfect for a swim on warm days.
Prefer not to hike down? No problem. You can relax at the viewpoint or eco-lodge area with cold drinks.
5. Picnic Lunch by the Water
Enjoy a simple, delicious, freshly prepared picnic lunch. The view alone makes this moment special.
6. Relaxation & Photography Time
Take your time:
Sunbathe
Capture stunning photos
Enjoy the quiet
Watch the light change on the water
Lake Chala is incredibly photogenic at any hour.
7. Afternoon Drive Back
After a peaceful afternoon, you’ll drive back to Moshi or Arusha, arriving before evening.
Price
Price Includes
- Transfer go and return
- Proffesional Guide
- Canoeing
- Picnic lunch
- Soft drinks and drinking water
FAQ - Lake Chala Day Trip
Is Lake Chala safe for swimming?
Yes, Lake Chala is generally safe for swimming and has very clear water. However, the access down to the shoreline is moderately steep, so good footwear is recommended. Swimming is optional and only allowed in designated areas. Always follow your guide’s instructions.
What makes Lake Chala unique compared to other attractions?
Lake Chala is a volcanic caldera lake fed by underground streams from Mount Kilimanjaro. Its water color changes throughout the year—turquoise, emerald, or deep blue. It is also less crowded than other destinations, making it ideal for peaceful nature experiences.
What wildlife can we expect to see?
While Lake Chala is not a wildlife-heavy destination like national parks, you may see:
Monkeys
Baboons
Small antelopes
Colorful birds
Reptiles and butterflies
The experience is more about scenery and calm nature than big game.
What is the best time to visit Lake Chala?
Lake Chala is beautiful year-round.
Dry season (June–October): Best views, comfortable hiking, little rain.
Green season (November–May): Lush vegetation, changing water colors, fewer visitors.
