Northern Tanzania
Guided experienceChemka Hotsprings Day Trip from Moshi or Arusha
Sneak away to Kikuletwa Hot Springs, a turquoise oasis hidden within an otherwise dry savannah landscape. Fed by underground geothermal streams from Mount Kilimanjaro, its warm waters are surrounded by beautiful overhanging roots.
Key facts
- Price from
- $35 USD per person
- Starting Point
- Moshi or Arusha lodging
- Ending Point
- Moshi or Arusha lodging
- Optimal Duration
- 6 to 8 Hours
- Water Temperature
- Lukewarm/Refreshing mineral pool (~26°C)
- Difficulty Level
- Easy (Water activities-focused, bumpy dirt road transport)
- Starts from
- Arusha or Moshi
Tour map
This tour covers the Northern area.
Starts in Arusha.
Indicative route, not turn-by-turn directions.
Pricing
Price From Arusha
Pickup from your hotel in Arusha city and surroundings
| Group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $150.00 USD* |
| 2-3 persons | $100.00 USD* |
| 4-5 persons | $80.00 USD* |
| 6-7 persons | $60.00 USD* |
| 8-9 persons | $50.00 USD* |
| 10+ persons | $40.00 USD* |
Price From Moshi Town
Pickup from your hotel in Moshi and surrounding areas
| Group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $100.00 USD* |
| 2-3 persons | $80.00 USD* |
| 4-5 persons | $60.00 USD* |
| 6-7 persons | $50.00 USD* |
| 8-9 persons | $40.00 USD* |
| 10+ persons | $35.00 USD* |
Prices are per person and vary by pickup city. For groups larger than 10 people, please reach out to us.
* Indicative costs per person, excluding international airline tickets.
Itinerary
Typically departing around 09:00
Savannah Drive to Rundugai
Depart Moshi (approx. 1 hour) or Arusha (approx. 1.5 hours). Drive past sprawling sugarcane estates and veer onto bumpy dirt trails through dry acacia plains, spotting distant views of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Mid-Morning (approx. 10:30)
Arrival at the Oasis
Arrive at Chemka Hot Springs. Change into your swimwear and, if safety conditions permit, slip into the crystal-clear, lukewarm turquoise waters. Experience the natural 'doctor fish' gently nibbling your feet, or use the rope swing to jump in from towering fig tree roots.
Midday (approx. 13:00)
Lakeside Hot Lunch
Savor a fresh, hot lunch prepared at local open-air stalls, featuring local favorites like freshly grilled BBQ nyama choma or a chips mayai (local potato-omelet).
Afternoon Relaxation (approx. 14:00)
Shaded Relaxation
Spend the afternoon relaxing in the sun under the massive palm fronds and winding fig tree canopy. Swimming may be permitted depending on water conditions, weather, safety assessments, seasonal conditions and current park guidance.
Late Afternoon (approx. 15:30)
Scenic Return Drive
Conclude your visit and return along the dirt trail to the main highway, transferring back to your Moshi or Arusha lodging.
What's included
- Private round-trip climate-controlled transportation
- Rundugai / Chemka Oasis entry permit fees (incl. VAT)
- Hot local lunch (Nyama Choma or Chips Mayai option)
- Dedicated driver-guide assistance
- Chilled bottled mineral water
What's not included
- Tips / gratuities for your driver and local staff
- Inflatable inner tube and towel rentals (available on-site)
- Travel insurance
Book this tour
Send your dates and pickup point and we will confirm availability.
Book Chemka Hotsprings Day Trip from Moshi or ArushaFrequently asked questions
Is the water actually hot?
The water is lukewarm and extremely refreshing—hovering at a comfortable, stable temperature of around 26°C (79°F). It is fed by underground Kilimanjaro springs, rather than superheated volcanic chambers.
Can non-swimmers enjoy the springs?
Yes. There are shallow, rocky wading zones near the entry points, and you can rent inflatable swim rings / life jackets on-site for a very small fee (approx. USD 2) to float safely.