Ngozi Crater Lake (Lake Ngosi)
From
Duration
Tour Type
Overview
Lake Ngozi, also known as Lake Ngosi, is Africa’s second-largest crater lake, nestled within the Mporoto Mountains near Tukuyu in the lush Southern Highlands of Tanzania. At 2.5 km long, 1.6 km wide, and about 75 m deep, it’s a serene and mystical spot. Trekkers hike through tropical montane forest rife with endemic chameleons, monkeys, and bird species to reach a ridge offering sweeping views of the tranquil alkaline lake. Ideal for hikers, nature lovers, photographers, and culture seekers.
Included/Exclude
Includes:
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Round-trip transport by private vehicle or dala dala
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Local English-speaking guide/forest ranger
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Entry and guide fees to Uporoto Forest & crater rim
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Picnic lunch & bottled water
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Government forest reserve taxes
Excludes:
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Tips for guide/driver (suggest $5–$10)
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Personal hiking gear (snacks, swimwear, extra layers)
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Optional lakeshore descent (guide arr. may have extra fee)
Tour Plan
Morning:
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8:00 AM – Hotel pickup in Mbeya or Tukuyu
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9:00 AM – Arrive at trailhead; meet local guide and register at forest reserve
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9:15 AM – Begin trek (~2 hours) uphill through farmland and dense forest
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Spot wildlife: colobus monkeys, endemic three-horned chameleons, forest birds tripadvisor.ca+4idreamofmangoes.com+4travelhype.co.tz+4nungunungu.com+3tanzaniatourism.com+3blessingsafaris.com+3
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Afternoon:
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11:30 AM – Reach crater rim; enjoy panoramic lake views; take photos and relax
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12:00 PM – Picnic lunch by the rim
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1:00 PM – Optional descent 200 m to lakeshore (~1 hr) for closer look & possible swim
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2:30 PM – Begin return trek via alternative ridge path
Evening:
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4:00 PM – Arrive back at trailhead, debrief with guide
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4:30 PM – Transfer back to Mbeya/Tukuyu
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5:30 PM – Hotel drop-off
