Chemka Hot Springs

After extended hiking trips and safaris, a perfect way to recuperate is with a day trip to the Chemka Hot Springs, also known as the Kikuletwa Hot Springs. Just 1.5 hours from Arusha and nearby Moshi Town, this hidden gem in Tanzania is a must-visit. The crystal-clear water in this jungle oasis offers a serene environment for relaxation, complete with rope swings, tire tubing, and thrilling tree jumps.

This exquisite mineral spring originates from Kilimanjaro’s groundwaters, situated about 40 kilometers away from Moshi in the village of Chemka. These underground springs provide warm water, creating a clear and clean pond ideal for swimming. Despite its considerable depth, reaching up to 10 meters in some areas, the water remains remarkably transparent, allowing a clear view of the bottom. The pond is surrounded by lush trees, offering a picturesque setting for camping, enjoying snacks, and air-drying after a refreshing swim.

The Chemka Hot Springs Tour takes you to this hidden gem, approximately a 1-2 hours’ drive from Moshi town or Arusha. Nestled in a beautiful green forest, these hot springs provide a perfect spot for a relaxing swim or a tranquil picnic.

Highlights of the Chemka Hot Springs Tour:

• Spend a relaxing half-day in the natural hot springs tucked away in the jungle.
• Capture memorable photos while swimming in the incredibly transparent and clean waters of the Chemka Hot Springs.
• Enjoy a picnic on the springs’ shore, with a lunch box included.
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off from/to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha are included.

Kikuletwa (Chemka) Hot Springs, locally known as Maji Moto, is a paradisiac oasis in the Tanzanian savannah. Offering captivating, Bounty-styled views, crystal-clear water, and dense vegetation, Chemka Hot Springs is an ideal destination after or before a Kilimanjaro hike or a safari adventure.

This oasis is a unique phenomenon, representing the only place in Tanzania (and likely in the whole of East Africa) where groundwater actively interacts with geothermal sources. It forms several small lakes with warm, never-stagnating water, rivaling the purity of the best resorts in the Dominican Republic or the Maldives.