Lake Duluti, Arusha
Lake Duluti is a small, peaceful crater lake on the eastern edge of Arusha, ringed by forest. It is one of the easiest and most relaxing things to do in Arusha, and a good first or last day on a Tanzania trip: a short walk or a paddle on still water, with monkeys and birds around you.
Lake Duluti is a small, peaceful crater lake on the eastern edge of Arusha, ringed by forest. It is one of the easiest and most relaxing things to do in Arusha, and a good first or last day on a Tanzania trip: a short walk or a paddle on still water, with monkeys and birds around you.
We can include Lake Duluti in any Arusha stay as a half-day trip. It also works well on the day you arrive, before a safari or a Kilimanjaro climb.
What to do at Lake Duluti
The main activities are walking and canoeing. A forest trail runs around the lake in about an hour, and it is a good place for bird watching. Blue and colobus monkeys live in the trees and often come close to the path. You can hire a canoe or a kayak and paddle slowly around the lake, with kingfishers and herons along the shore. There is no swimming in the lake.
How to get there
Lake Duluti lies about 10 kilometres east of the centre of Arusha, near the suburb of Tengeru on the road toward Moshi. A drive takes 20 to 30 minutes from most hotels in Arusha. We can arrange a driver, or include it as part of a half-day tour.
Best time to go
Morning is best, when the birds are active and the air is cool. The lake is open all year, though the trail can be muddy in the rainy months from March to May.
What to bring
Wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothing, bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and a camera. Take some cash for entry and canoe fees. A small binocular is useful for the birds.
Birds and monkeys at Lake Duluti
The forest around the lake is home to blue monkeys and black-and-white colobus, which you can often see from the trail. Bird watchers record more than a hundred species, including kingfishers, hornbills and the African fish eagle. Early morning is best, and a local guide will help you find the birds.
A relaxed day in Arusha
Lake Duluti fits well with a lunch in Tengeru or a stop at a nearby coffee farm. It is also a good first-day activity if you arrive tired and want something gentle. Many travellers return for a last relaxed morning before their flight.
Lake Duluti in a day with other sights
A good Arusha day starts with a morning walk at Lake Duluti, a late coffee at a farm or cafe and an afternoon in Arusha National Park or at the Cultural Heritage Centre. It is an easy plan for the day before or after a safari, and everything is within an hour of the city.
Combine Lake Duluti with a safari or a climb
- 1 Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Arusha (1 Day, from USD 500 per person) A private one-day safari from Arusha into the UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater with a full day game drive and picnic lunch.
- 1 Day Tarangire National Park Short Safari from Arusha (1 Day, from USD 350 per person) A private one-day Tarangire safari from Arusha: elephant herds, ancient baobabs and a picnic lunch inside the park.
- 1 Day Tarangire National Park Joining Safari from Arusha (1 Day, from USD 250 per person) A budget-friendly shared day safari to Tarangire National Park from Arusha: elephants, baobabs and a picnic lunch.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lake Duluti worth visiting?
Yes, if you have a free half day in Arusha. It is a calm, scenic place close to town.
Can you swim in Lake Duluti?
No. It is a protected crater lake, and swimming is not allowed. You can canoe and walk.
How long should I spend there?
Two to three hours is enough for a walk and a short canoe trip.
Is it safe to walk around the lake?
Yes, with the park guide. The paths are easy and the forest is popular with visitors.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, a small fee per person and extra for canoe hire. Your guide will tell you the current amounts.
Is Lake Duluti suitable for children?
Yes. The trail is flat and short, and children enjoy the monkeys and the canoe.