Lake Chala Hike & Canoeing
Explore the stunning crater lake straddling the Tanzania-Kenya border with hiking, canoeing, and breathtaking views.
Overview
Lake Chala is a spectacular crater lake located on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. The lake is fed by underground springs from Kilimanjaro, creating pristine turquoise-blue waters. The dramatic 100m crater walls offer stunning viewpoints and adventurous hiking trails.
Highlights
- Hike along the 100m crater rim with panoramic views
- Canoe on the pristine crater lake
- Swimming in crystal-clear waters (depth reaches 90m!)
- Spot blue monkeys and diverse birdlife
- Visit the Tanzania-Kenya border on the lake
- Photography opportunities at every turn
- Picnic lunch with lake views
Itinerary
07:30 AM: Pick up from Moshi
09:00 AM: Arrive at Lake Chala, begin rim hike
10:30 AM: Descend to the lake (30-minute hike down)
11:00 AM: Canoeing and swimming
01:00 PM: Lunch by the lake
02:00 PM: Hike back up to the crater rim
03:00 PM: Return journey to Moshi
04:30 PM: Arrival at hotel
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Swimsuit and towel
- Sun protection
- Camera
- Water bottle
- Light snacks
Price Includes
- Transportation from Moshi
- Park entrance fees
- Canoe rental
- Professional guide
- Picnic lunch
- Bottled water
Detailed Itinerary
07:30 AM: Pick up from your hotel in Moshi
09:00 AM: Arrive at Lake Chala, crater rim viewpoint for photos
09:30 AM: Begin scenic hike along the 100-meter crater rim
10:30 AM: Descend 30 minutes down to the lake shore (steep trail)
11:00 AM: Canoeing on the pristine crater lake - explore the Tanzania-Kenya border
12:30 PM: Swimming in crystal-clear waters (depth reaches 90 meters!)
01:00 PM: Picnic lunch by the lakeside with stunning views
02:00 PM: Hike back up to the crater rim
03:00 PM: Begin return journey to Moshi
04:30 PM: Arrive at your hotel
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- Round-trip transportation from Moshi
- Professional guide
- Lake Chala entrance fees
- Canoe rental
- Picnic lunch with drinks
- Bottled water
- All government taxes
Not Included
- Tips for guide (recommended)
- Personal travel insurance
- Snacks beyond provided meals
- Items not mentioned in inclusions