Day Tour to Lake Chala

Duration

1 day

Tour Overview

Tour Overview:

Lake Chala, a serene crater lake located on the border of Tanzania and Kenya, offers a peaceful and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This unique destination is perfect for those who enjoy nature, scenic views, and a touch of adventure. A day tour to Lake Chala provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and relaxing by the tranquil waters.

Itinerary Details:

Early Morning:

  • Pickup from Hotel: Depart from your hotel in Arusha around 6:00 AM for the drive to Lake Chala.
  • Scenic Drive: Enjoy the drive through the beautiful Tanzanian countryside, passing through local villages and lush landscapes. The journey to Lake Chala takes approximately 3 hours.

Mid-Morning:

  • Arrival and Briefing: Arrive at Lake Chala and receive a brief introduction to the area from your guide.
  • Lake Viewpoint: Start with a visit to a viewpoint overlooking the lake, where you can take in the stunning views of the crater lake surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush vegetation.

Late Morning:

  • Guided Hike: Embark on a guided hike around the lake. The trail offers varying levels of difficulty, making it suitable for all fitness levels. As you hike, enjoy the beautiful scenery, spot various bird species, and learn about the local flora and fauna from your guide.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for wildlife such as baboons, vervet monkeys, and a variety of bird species that inhabit the area.

Midday:

  • Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a packed picnic lunch at a scenic spot by the lake. Relax and take in the tranquil surroundings while savoring your meal.

Afternoon:

  • Optional Activities: After lunch, you can choose to engage in optional activities such as kayaking on the lake or taking a refreshing swim in the clear waters.
  • Leisure Time: Spend some free time exploring the lakeshore, relaxing, or taking photos. The peaceful environment is perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature.

Late Afternoon:

  • Return Drive: Begin the drive back to Arusha in the late afternoon, reflecting on the serene beauty and unique experiences of the day.
  • Hotel Drop-Off: Arrive back at your hotel in Arusha by early evening, around 6:00 PM.

Highlights:

  • Experience the serene beauty of Lake Chala
  • Guided hike with opportunities to see wildlife and birds
  • Stunning viewpoints and photo opportunities
  • Picnic lunch by the tranquil lake
  • Optional activities such as kayaking and swimming

Tips:

  • Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes.
  • Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
  • Don’t forget your camera for capturing the stunning scenery.
  • Pack swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching.

A day tour to Lake Chala offers a peaceful retreat into nature, with opportunities for adventure and relaxation by one of Tanzania’s most beautiful and lesser-known lakes.

Tour Itinerary

Morning:

  • Departure from Arusha/Moshi: Your day starts with an early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Arusha or Moshi. Enjoy a comfortable drive through the scenic Tanzanian countryside, which takes about 2 to 3 hours.
  • Arrival at Lake Chala: Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the sight of the beautiful crater lake with its clear blue waters surrounded by steep, verdant walls.

Mid-Morning:

  • Guided Walk Around the Lake: Begin with a guided walk around the lake. Your guide will provide insights into the geological formation of the lake, its ecological significance, and the local flora and fauna.
  • Bird Watching and Wildlife Spotting: The area around Lake Chala is rich in birdlife and other wildlife. Keep an eye out for a variety of bird species, monkeys, and other animals.

Midday:

  • Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot near the lake. Relax and take in the serene surroundings while you enjoy your meal.
  • Leisure Time by the Lake: After lunch, you have the option to relax by the lake, take photos, or explore further on your own.

Early Afternoon:

  • Canoeing on the Lake: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a canoe and paddle on the calm waters of Lake Chala. This is a fantastic way to experience the lake from a different perspective and enjoy the tranquility.
  • Hiking and Exploration: Alternatively, you can choose to hike one of the trails around the lake. The trails offer different viewpoints and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

Late Afternoon:

  • Departure from Lake Chala: In the late afternoon, begin your journey back to Arusha or Moshi. Enjoy the scenic drive and reflect on the day’s experiences.
  • Arrival in Arusha/Moshi: Arrive back at your accommodation in the early evening, concluding your peaceful and adventurous day at Lake Chala.

Highlights

  • Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the stunning views of Lake Chala, a crystal-clear crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation.
  • Bird Watching: Spot a variety of bird species and other wildlife in the area.
  • Canoeing: Experience the tranquility of the lake by renting a canoe.
  • Hiking and Exploration: Explore the scenic trails around the lake with opportunities for great photography.
  • Guided Insights: Learn about the geological and ecological significance of Lake Chala from your guide.

Tips for the Tour

  • What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars, camera, swimwear (if you plan to canoe or swim), a water bottle, and a light jacket or raincoat.
  • Fitness Level: The tour involves moderate walking and optional hiking or canoeing, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
  • Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. The area can be warm during the day, but cooler in the early morning and late afternoon.

Included

  • Park entrance fees
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing
  • Picnic lunch
  • Bottled water
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Excluded

  • Optional activities (e.g., canoeing safari)
  • Gratuities (optional)
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Flights

Price From

$120.00

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