Lake Chala is a stunning crater lake on the border of Tanzania and Kenya. It was formed over 250,000 years ago as a result of volcanic activity associated with Mount Kilimanjaro. It sits in a deep caldera, which was created by a massive eruption that caused the land to cave in, forming the lake basin. Over time, underground springs fed by Kilimanjaro’s glaciers filled the crater, creating the lake we see today.
The depth is estimated to be over 90 meters, making it one of Tanzania’s deepest lakes. It is home to unique fish species, birds, and sometimes even elephants that come to drink from the lake.
Lake Chala is surrounded by mystery and folklore, with local legends passed down through generations. Many locals believe that Lake Chala is bottomless and that its depth is unknown. Some even say that objects or people who disappear into the lake are never seen again.
One legend tells of a battle between the Chaga and Pare tribes, where warriors were pushed into the lake, and their spirits are said to still haunt the waters. Some locals claim to hear whispers or strange sounds coming from the lake at night.
According to another one (created by Chaga people), cattle once mysteriously disappeared from nearby villages, only to reappear on the opposite side of the lake in Kenya. Some believe the lake has an underground tunnel that connects it to other bodies of water, allowing objects (or even animals) to vanish and reappear elsewhere.
Moreover, local stories speak of a water spirit or serpent-like creature that lives in Lake Chala, guarding its depths. Some believe this spirit punishes those who disrespect the lake, leading to unexplained drownings or disappearances. Fishermen and locals often perform small rituals or offerings before entering the lake to seek the spirit’s protection.
How to get there?
Lake Chala is about 55 km from Moshi and 140 km from Arusha.
From Moshi
It’s about a 1.5-hour drive. Take the Moshi–Taveta Road towards the Kenya border. About 7-8 kilometres past Himo, turn right onto a dirt road leading to Lake Chala.
From Arusha
It’s a 3 to 4-hour drive. Drive to Moshi via the Arusha-Moshi Highway and then follow the same route from Moshi to Lake Chala as described above.
By Public Transport
Take a bus or dala-dala from Moshi to Himo Town. From Himo, hire a motorbike (boda-boda) or taxi to the lake.
By Tour Package
Many tour operators in Moshi and Arusha offer guided day trips, including transport, meals, and activities like hiking or kayaking. I found the best price at Karibu Africa House in Moshi – 80 USD, all-inclusive. Ignore other offers asking for 150 – 200 USD as this is a typical Tanzanian rip-off.
The best time to visit
June to October (Cool and Dry Season): ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting, with less rain and pleasant temperatures.
December to February (Warm and Dry Season): great for swimming and kayaking, with warm temperatures and clear skies.
Months to avoid:
March to May (Long Rainy Season): heavy rains can make trails muddy and access roads difficult.
November (Short Rainy Season): occasional showers, but still possible to visit.
Where to stay?
If you want to stay in Moshi and just do a day trip to Lake Chala, I recommend Karibu Africa House and The Better Inn. Both places offer good quality at an affordable price, and they also offer day trips to Lake Chala, but Karibu Africa House is significantly cheaper.
If you decide to spend the night in nature, Lake Chala Safari Lodge and Campsite should be your choice. In February 2025, it was closed for renovation, so call them for more information before going.
How much does it cost?
If you go solo, you will probably be asked to pay a 30 USD entrance fee. It is a so-called “wildlife fee”, but unfortunately, no wildlife is around. I think it is way too much, and while the lake is pretty, it is not worth that amount of money. Unfortunately, Tanzania is heading in a weird direction as a travel destination for wealthy people, and the prices in many places are simply ridiculous. Result? Nobody is there, so maybe after al,l the strategy doesn’t work…
If you decide to book a trip with an agent, the entrance fee and lunch will be included in the price.
My experience
After a delicious breakfast at Karibu House Africa, I was picked up but their driver at 9:30 AM and we set off towards Lake Chala, picking up a packed lunch on the way.
We had some usual conversation about Tanzania and Poland so the way passed quickly and we approached the turn-off from the tarmac road towards Lake Chala. This section was way more bumpy but the car wasn’t even 4×4 so it is perfectly doable in dry conditions.
First, the driver went to check in and pay the entrance fee. Then we continued towards Lake Chala Safari Lodge and Campsite from where we walked to the viewpoint, partly following a dry riverbed and narrow paths in the bush. It was scorching hot and I felt really lucky I didn’t forget my hat that time.
The viewpoint was impressive. We could see a vast panorama of the crater lake taking the same rest in the shadow of the trees.
Then, we hiked back and went down to the lakeside. I wore a lifejacket and jumped in the kayak as I got the chance to paddle freely around the lake. It was really nice although the wind was strong and when I was in the middle, I could feel it was pushing me back. Some were monkeys hanging out on the trees but besides that, I didn’t see any wildlife.
At the end, we had lunch at the shaded observation point near the lodge. We were the only people there so it was quiet and peaceful.
Was it worth it?
Overall, I spent a nice day at the Lake Chala but taking into consideration how much it costs, it isn’t worth it. I had the feeling that it was just another attraction in Tanzania taking advantage of tourists, trying to rip them off as much as possible. The view of the lake is nice, but definitely it isn’t a “must-see” place.
