A turquoise spring-fed pool shaded by giant fig trees, the Kikuletwa or Chemka hot springs make a refreshing day out between Arusha and Moshi.
Picture a clear blue-green pool appearing in the middle of dry scrubland, fringed by palms and huge fig trees, with a rope swing hanging over the water. That is the scene at the Kikuletwa hot springs, often called Chemka, a popular escape for visitors and locals alike.
It is an easy day trip from Moshi or Arusha and an ideal way to relax tired legs after a Kilimanjaro climb or to fill a free day before your safari. Here is what our Arusha team tells guests before they go.
Quick tips
- Pack swimwear, a quick-dry towel, water shoes and a waterproof bag for your phone.
- Go on a weekday morning for the calmest water and fewest crowds.
- Bring small Tanzanian shilling notes for entry, drinks and snacks.
- Swim only within your ability, since parts of the pool are deep.
- Use reef-safe or mineral sunscreen sparingly and let it absorb before swimming.
Kikuletwa or Chemka: Same Place?
Both names are used for the same spring system near the village of Rundugai in the Kilimanjaro region. Chemka is the name most often used for the main, more developed visitor area, while Kikuletwa refers to the wider springs and the river they feed. Different access points may be managed by different local operators.
Do not expect steaming water. Despite the name, the springs are pleasantly warm or lukewarm rather than hot, which feels wonderful on a sunny afternoon. The water is so clear that you can often see straight to the sandy bottom, and the contrast with the dusty plains around it is part of the magic.
Getting There and Timing
The springs lie roughly between Moshi and Arusha, reached by tarmac and then a rough dirt road through farmland. Driving time is roughly one to one and a half hours from either town, depending on conditions.
Weekdays and mornings are quietest. Weekends and public holidays can be busy with local families and groups, which is lively and fun but less tranquil. During the long rains, roughly March to May, the access road can become muddy.
What to Do at the Springs
Most visitors spend a relaxed half day here. Typical activities include:
- Swimming in the clear pool, where small fish may gently nibble your feet.
- Swinging from the rope into deeper water, if you are a confident swimmer.
- Relaxing in the shade of the fig trees with a picnic lunch.
- Spotting birds and monkeys in the surrounding vegetation.
- Enjoying simple local food and drinks from on-site vendors where available.
Safety in the Water
The pool has deep sections and there may be no lifeguard on duty, so weak swimmers and children should stay in the shallows or wear a flotation aid. Check depth before jumping and never dive head first.
Freshwater swimming anywhere in Tanzania raises questions about waterborne infections such as schistosomiasis. Ask your travel clinic or doctor for current advice before your trip and make an informed choice about swimming.
Being a Good Visitor
The springs are an important water source and community asset, so keep the area clean, carry all litter away and avoid sunscreen or soaps that leave a film on the water where possible. Remember that plastic bags are banned in Tanzania.
Swimwear is fine at the pool, but cover up with a sarong or shorts when walking around the village or buying food. Ndovu African Expeditions can arrange the trip with a driver-guide, lunch and timing that fits your wider itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
Is the water actually hot at Kikuletwa?
No, it is better described as warm or lukewarm. The temperature is comfortable for swimming and refreshing in the midday heat.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, a modest entry fee is usually charged by the local operators who manage access. It can vary by entry point, so check with us for the current arrangement.
Can I visit the springs after climbing Kilimanjaro?
Yes, many climbers do. A gentle swim is a lovely way to unwind, but rest well first and avoid jumping from the rope swing if your legs are still tired.
