Northern Tanzania
Guided experienceLake Chala Day Trip from Moshi or Arusha
Explore a dramatic deep volcanic crater lake bordering Tanzania and Kenya. Encircled by a steep forest crater rim rimmed with lush foliage, Lake Chala is perfect for secluded canopy walking and kayaking.
Key facts
- Price from
- $80 USD per person
- Starting Point
- Moshi or Arusha lodging
- Ending Point
- Moshi or Arusha lodging
- Optimal Duration
- 7 to 9 Hours
- Difficulty Level
- Moderate to Demanding (Steep descent/ascent requiring hiking shoes)
- Best Season
- June to February (dry months; trail can be dangerously slippery during heavy rains)
- Starts from
- Arusha or Moshi
Tour map
This tour covers the Northern area.
Starts in Arusha.
Indicative route, not turn-by-turn directions.
Pricing
Price From Arusha
Pickup from your hotel in Arusha city and surroundings
| Group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $280.00 USD* |
| 2-3 persons | $250.00 USD* |
| 4-5 persons | $200.00 USD* |
| 6-7 persons | $150.00 USD* |
| 8-9 persons | $120.00 USD* |
| 10+ persons | $100.00 USD* |
Price From Moshi Town
Pickup from your hotel in Moshi and surrounding areas
| Group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $225.00 USD* |
| 2-3 persons | $200.00 USD* |
| 4-5 persons | $180.00 USD* |
| 6-7 persons | $150.00 USD* |
| 8-9 persons | $120.00 USD* |
| 10+ persons | $80.00 USD* |
Prices are per person and vary by pickup city. For groups larger than 10 people, please reach out to us.
* Indicative costs per person, excluding international airline tickets.
Itinerary
Typically departing around 08:30
Scenic Border Drive
Private pickup from Moshi (approx. 1 hour) or Arusha (approx. 2.5 hours). Travel east toward the Taveta Kenyan border post, crossing dry savannah lands to the entrance of the Lake Chala Reserve.
Morning Rim Hike (approx. 10:00)
Crater Rim & Wildlife Walk
Walk along the high forested crater rim, taking in spectacular views of the deep lake changing colors from emerald to turquoise. Look for black-and-white colobus monkeys, velvet monkeys, and rare raptors nesting in the cliffs.
Crater Descent (approx. 11:00)
Steep Jungle Path Descent
Embark on a steep, 30-minute rocky scramble down the interior crater wall through dense, lush vegetation to reach the silent, pristine shoreline.
Kayaking Adventure (approx. 12:00)
Boundary Kayaking
Climb into your kayak. Paddle across the tranquil, mirror-like volcanic water, enjoying the unique thrill of crossing the watery international boundary between Tanzania and Kenya.
Midday Picnic (approx. 13:30)
Lakeside Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a packed picnic lunch on a shaded rocky ledge at the water's edge, soaking in the complete silence of this volcanic caldera.
Ascent & Departure (approx. 14:30)
Crater Ascent & Return
Hike back up the steep path to the crater rim (a great aerobic exercise). Relax with refreshments at the rim restaurant before your comfortable return transfer.
What's included
- Private round-trip climate-controlled transfers
- Lake Chala Reserve entry permit fees
- Guided hike with local site conservation guide
- Kayak rental and safety equipment
- Packed picnic lunchbox and chilled mineral water
What's not included
- Tips / gratuities for your driver and local guides
- Optional refreshments at the rim-view restaurant
- Travel insurance and personal items
Book this tour
Send your dates and pickup point and we will confirm availability.
Book Lake Chala Day Trip from Moshi or ArushaFrequently asked questions
Is it safe to swim in Lake Chala?
No, swimming is highly discouraged. Lake Chala is a massive, extremely deep caldera (over 90 meters) with steep drop-offs and strong underwater currents. Stick to kayaking for a safe, close-to-water experience.
Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The trail down to the water is very steep, uneven, and requires steady footing. It is not recommended for young toddlers, travelers with knee/joint issues, or anyone with limited physical mobility.