Do I need to be a good swimmer at Chemka Hot Springs?

No, but some parts of the natural pools are deep. Non-swimmers can use the shallow areas.

Chemka Hot Springs Day Trip from Arusha

Q: How long is the drive to Chemka Hot Springs?

About 1 to 2 hours each way, depending on whether you start in Moshi or Arusha.

Q: What should I bring to Chemka Hot Springs?

Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, flip-flops, a change of clothes and a waterproof bag.

trip overview

Swim in clear turquoise hot springs at the foot of Kilimanjaro.

This day trip takes you to Chemka Hot Springs, also known as Kikuletwa, a group of clear, warm pools in the countryside of Hai District. You travel in a private vehicle with a driver-guide, spend a few hours swimming and relaxing in the shade of palm and fig trees, and enjoy a picnic lunch by the water. It is an easy, restful trip that suits families, couples and anyone who wants a break between treks or safaris.

Activity level — EasyA short, flat walk from the entrance to the pools. Most of the day is spent swimming and relaxing. Suitable for most ages and fitness levels.

Swim in the clear, warm turquoise water of Chemka (Kikuletwa) Hot Springs

Relax in the shade of palm and fig trees beside the pools

Easy, flat walk from the entrance, with no hiking needed

Picnic lunch beside the springs

Private vehicle with hotel pick-up and drop-off

Entrance fees included, with a driver-guide throughout

Good for families, couples and groups of friends

day-by-day itinerary

What happens from pick-up to drop-off.

This is a day trip, so there is no overnight stay. Additional hotel nights in Arusha or Moshi before or after the trip can be arranged for an extra cost.

Day1

Arusha to Chemka Hot Springs and Back

Pick-up from Arusha or MoshiDrive: about 1–2 hours each waySwim & relax: 3–4 hours

Your driver collects you from your hotel in the morning and takes you through the farmland at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro toward Chemka Hot Springs, also called Kikuletwa, near Boma Ng’ombe in Hai District. The drive takes about 1 to 2 hours depending on where you start.

The springs are a cluster of calm, turquoise pools fed by natural spring water that stays warm all day. The water is so clear that you can see the bottom. Palm and fig trees give shade around the edge, so you can swim, float, swing from the rope over the water if you wish, or simply sit and relax.

You spend about 3 to 4 hours at the springs, with a picnic lunch served beside the water. In the afternoon your driver takes you back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, and the trip ends.

Clear turquoise waterSwimming & relaxingPicnic lunch

OvernightNo accommodation — day tripReturn to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi.

Picnic Lunch & Water Included

what’s included

Exactly what’s covered — and what isn’t.

Included in your price

Experienced English-speaking driver-guide
Entrance fees to Chemka Hot Springs
Picnic lunch and drinking water
Hotel pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle (Arusha or Moshi)

Not included

International or domestic flights
Travel & medical insurance (required)
Swimwear, towels and personal items
Drinks other than water, snacks and souvenirs
Tips for your driver-guide
Additional accommodation before or after the trip

Important to know before booking

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, flip-flops, a change of clothes and a waterproof bag for your phone or camera.
The pools are natural, and some parts are deep. Non-swimmers should stay in the shallow areas and follow the advice of your guide.
The path and the edge of the pools can be slippery, so wear shoes with good grip when walking around the water.
A Tanzania e-Visa is required for most nationalities — apply at immigration.go.tz at least 3 weeks before travel.
A yellow fever certificate may be required depending on your transit country. See our Tanzania vaccinations guide for details.
Weather and road conditions can change the schedule. Your driver-guide makes the final decision on safety.

pricing

What you’ll pay — no hidden extras.

Placeholder price shown below — update to your actual rate before publishing.

Option	Price per person	Notes
Chemka Hot Springs day trip Entrance fees and picnic lunch included	$120	Per person

Payment & extras

A deposit confirms your booking, with the balance due before departure. Full terms are on our booking policy page.

Additional accommodation before or after the trip can be arranged for an extra cost.

Ready to swim at Chemka?

Reach out and we’ll confirm availability for your dates and send you a full quote.

frequently asked questions

Questions we get asked most often.

Where does the trip start and end?

The trip starts and ends at your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. Your driver collects you in the morning and brings you back in the afternoon.

How long is the drive to Chemka Hot Springs?

The drive takes about 1 to 2 hours each way, depending on whether you start in Moshi or Arusha. The road passes through farmland at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Do I need to be a good swimmer?

No, but the pools are natural and some parts are deep. Non-swimmers can enjoy the shallow areas and the shade around the edge. Your guide will show you the safest places to swim.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, flip-flops, a change of clothes and a waterproof bag for your phone or camera.

Can I combine Chemka with other activities?

Yes. Many guests combine Chemka Hot Springs with a Kilimanjaro day hike, a coffee tour or a safari. Contact us and we will build a program for you.

Do I need a visa or vaccinations for Tanzania?

Most nationalities need a Tanzania e-Visa, available at immigration.go.tz. A yellow fever certificate may also be required depending on your transit country — check with your doctor or travel clinic before departure.

What's your refund policy?

We recommend taking out travel insurance as soon as you confirm your booking. Full cancellation and payment terms are on our booking policy page.