Lake Chala Day Trip

Lake Chala Day Trip

Lake Chala is a stunning crater lake that straddles the border between Kenya and Tanzania. Formed approximately 250,000 years ago, it lies east of Mount Kilimanjaro, 8 kilometres north of Taveta, Kenya, and 55 kilometres east of Rombo District.

The lake boasts a great diversity of life, ranging from lush lakeshore forests to stunning volcanic savannahs, thick bush, and open 'mbuga'. Walking at Lake Chala is a magical experience that will put you back in touch with nature.

Fed by Mount Kilimanjaro's underground springs
Depending on the time of year, the lake ranges in color from deep blue to turquoise and green, surrounded by a 100-metre high crater rim. Chala features a huge variety of unique trees, grasses, and plants, as well as hundreds of species of butterflies and birds, including the African Fish Eagle, Verreaux’s Eagle, and Augur Buzzards. Wild mammals such as blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, baboons, dik-dik, kudu, and elephants can also be spotted. It is an untouched part of a truly ancient land and a must-visit destination.

Safari Itinerary

Your friendly guide will arrive at your accommodation armed with your tasty packed lunch, before driving you to Lake Chala Safari Camp. On the way, you’ll journey through the everyday life of Moshi and onto the scenic highway, taking in wonderful sights along the comfortable hour-and-a-bit drive.

Lake Chala Safari Camp is a beautiful private game reserve overlooking the lake. Upon arrival, your guide will take you down to the lakeside through vividly green flora. Because it gets quite rocky near the water, sturdy footwear is recommended. It’s an ideal area for hikers and birdwatchers, where you might even spot elephants gathering at a distant waterhole in season. Spend the day wandering paths around the lake or across the nearby savannah, where you’re likely to encounter baboons, vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, dik-diks, and graceful kudus.

After your hike, unwind by the lakeside enjoying the stillness, broken only by birdsong and gently lapping waters. If you feel more active, hop into a kayak to explore further while being serenaded by nature. Wrap up your day at the bar for a refreshing drink and snack before your return drive to Moshi in the late afternoon, leaving you with unforgettable memories of peace and tranquility.