Lake Chala

Lake Chala is a medium crater lake in a caldera located on the border of Tanzania and Kenya on the eastern end of Kilimanjaro. This place is a real find for tourists who like panoramic views and quiet recreation.

Climate: Chala has a temperate but varied climate. It can be very hot in the day time, especially in December to March, but evenings and mornings are cool and nights can be chilly. From May to September it can be quite cold, warm clothes are needed in the early morning and evening.     

What to bring: We do advise good walking shoes, and maybe a stick to go down to the lake. It is a steep ascent. Bring binoculars for birding, sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothes for temperature changes, check ‘Taveta weather reports’.  If you want to have a cold refreshing shower after the hike, please bring a towel.

Walking: Chala is a wonderful area in which to walk.

Birding: The Chala bird survey is ongoing.  Birds are plentiful and raptors in particular are many and spectacular in the area. Chala is thought to be an important migration corridor on the eastern flank of Kilimanjaro, and unexpected birds can be found here during migration time.  We appreciate reports of birds seen by visitors to increase our bird survey.  

Fish: The lake is home to the Lake Chala Tilapia, a species of fish in the cichlidae family. This fish is endemic to Chala, but is now a threatened species due to over fishing, a concern which needs to be adressed. That’s why fishing is not allowed at Lake Chala.

Crocodiles: Crocodiles were introduced to Lake Chala in the 1930’s. According to legend they were brought in by E.S. Grogan, a British explorer who became famous for walking from Cape Town to Cairo in 1898. The terrain is totally unsuitable for crocodiles to breed, there being no beaches or sandy areas to make their nests. In the early 1990s fishermen, angry that their nets were continually being destroyed, began a program to eradicate them. Since 2002 there are no longer any crocodiles left in Lake Chala. 

Day 1: Lake Chala

In the morning, after the transfer to the lake, you will find yourself on the edge of the crater to see the wonderful views of the tropical forest and the lake. On the way to the lake, you are highly likely to see baboons. At the lake you can go canoeing, relishing the beautiful African nature. Your lunch will be served afterwards. On the way back to the hotel you will see Mount Kilimanjaro in all its glory.

NB: THIS TOUR STARTS IN ARUSHA & ENDS IN ARUSHA or MOSHI.

Included in cost:

• • Pick-up in Arusha/Moshi
  • Bottle of Wine
  • Entry ticket
  • Canoeing
  • Experienced & Knowledgeable English-speaking guide
  • Transport to Lake Chala
  • Chairs and table for picnic.
  • Soft drinks and bottled drinking water
  • Snacks during the safari
  • Packed lunch-boxes
  • Drop-off in Arusha/Moshi.

The price does not include:

• Tips for the safari guide ($20 per day per car).
• Accommodation in Arusha before or after safari
• Visa
• Travel Insurance