Lake Chala- Travel Tips
What to See, How to Plan & Tours- Natural Scenery
- 5 Reviews
Lake Chala: Kenya’s Deep Crater Lake Between Two Nations
Nestled on the border between Kenya and Tanzania, Lake Chala is a volcanic crater lake that offers more than just scenic beauty. Formed around 250,000 years ago, this lake lies within a collapsed caldera and is fed primarily by underground springs flowing from the high forests of Mount Kilimanjaro.
I. Discovering Lake Chala
The lake spans approximately 4.2 km² and plunges to depths of about 90‑100 metres, making it one of the deepest inland lakes in the region. Its steep crater rim rises up to roughly 170 metres above the waterline, creating dramatic views of the turquoise‑blue waters below. The water’s unique hue changes with the angle of light and the season—from deep blue to greenish turquoise—thanks to its underground‑spring source and mineral content.
The surrounding forest and crater slopes host an impressive variety of flora and fauna. The lake’s shoreline forest supports butterflies, birds of prey and monkeys, while the water itself houses the endemic “Lake Chala tilapia,” a cichlid found nowhere else.
II. Visiting Lake Chala – What to Expect
Getting there: The Kenyan side (near the town of Taveta) is just about 8 km from the lake. On the Tanzania side, it lies around 50–55 km south‑east of Moshi, which typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours by car.
Activities:
- Follow walking trails around the crater rim, offering panoramic views and photo opportunities.
- Kayaking or canoeing on the lake in designated areas.
- Bird‑watching with over 200 bird species recorded in the area.
Practical tips:
- The descent to the lake can be steep; sturdy walking shoes are recommended.
- Weather can shift quickly; mornings and evenings may feel cool even if the day is warm.
- Swimming is possible but caution is advised due to the lake's depth and remote terrain.
Best time: Dry seasons provide clearer skies for colour contrast; early morning light helps capture the vivid water hues.
III. Culture, Conservation & Why it Matters
Local folklore adds a mystical layer to Lake Chala: tales include a clan turned away by a woman who then created the lake in revenge, and myths of a “bottomless” lake linked to hidden tunnels.
Conservation:
- The endemic tilapia is threatened by overfishing and habitat changes.
- Lake Chala serves as a natural indicator of regional hydrology and climate change.
Visiting Lake Chala isn’t simply about ticking a destination—it offers a window into volcanic geology, groundwater systems, biodiversity and quiet outdoor experience beyond the usual safari routes. For travellers seeking a richer connection with nature and geology, it rewards the effort with perspective and solitude.
Attractions in Kenya
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 13
Reviews of Lake Chala
Arthur Preston - 5
This is a very calm and serene environment. It harbors the most rare fish in the world Oreochromis hunteri. The environment is breath taking from the vegetation, the lake, the monkeys and the geckos. You should visit the place, and the lake has it legend that a long time ago some villagers were staying on top of the hill before it sank with the village clan. So every night people can be heard screaming and beating drums to be rescued...... Visitors should be very careful with the waters as it's very deep and most people who drowned in it have never been found. And the lake has 7 outlets that drain water to Indian ocean, lake Jipe, Tanzania,
Ivo - 5
An absolute marvel! Lake Chala, bordering Tanzania and Kenya, is a sight to behold. The beauty of this lake is unmatched, with its serene waters and stunning surroundings. Canoeing along the edges, with playful monkeys in the trees, is a delightful experience that adds an extra touch of wonder. The view here is simply breathtaking, offering an escape into nature's beauty. If you're looking for a serene, picturesque spot that showcases the natural wonders of East Africa, Lake Chala is a must-visit destination.
Jimmy Gitau - 5
Gorgeous crater lake in Taveta, at the border of Kenya and Tanzania. The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and best of all there isn't much human activity, you see the lake in its most natural setting. The path down to the shores is steep but not difficult to climb. A word of caution - the lake is very deep right from the shores so it's advisable not to swim, however tempting it might be, unless you're an expert swimmer.
susan wangui - 5
Such a beautiful lake, all surrounded by a ridge, so you go up a small hill then descend down. Getting to the lake is about a 5mins trek down where you have to watch your steps carefully, and the hike up will get you to break into a sweat.
Daniel Msirikale - 5
This is a strikingly beautiful crator lake inside a a caldera. The hike to the bottom is a bit steep so you have to be careful with your footing. The lake itself has magnificent shades of blue, green or turquoise depending on the time of the year and how the light hits it. Only downside is that it isnt that swimmer friendly and you are met with warning signs all the way down. There is a broken canoe there but it would have been a perfect place to canoe or kayak. If you have a drone its also a great place for some aerial shots.
