Chemka Hot Spring

In the town of Moshi in northern Tanzania, there is a place that is like a small paradise, a place that many people don’t know about or some have never heard of it. This place is so beautiful and when you visit, for a time you may find yourself lost and immersed with the peace found at this place. The place is known as Chemka Hot Springs or Kikuletwa Hot Springs. If you want to have a time for relaxation and have time for swimming, then this place is right for you.

What Exactly Is Chemka Hot Springs?

The name “Chemka,” comes from the Swahili word which means “boiling”, except that here at Chemka Hot springs, the water doesn’t boil, it just gives bubbles from the earth. Chemka Hot Springs is a natural oasis found in the middle of a dry and dusty landscape. After driving through small villages and rough roads, it’s a big surprise to arrive at a place filled with green trees, birds singing, and crystal-clear blue water. It truly feels like a secret garden.

Even though it’s called a “hot spring,” the water is not hot like a bathtub. It’s more like pleasantly warm — cool enough to swim in, but warm enough to relax your body. The water bubbles up from underground, giving it the name “Chemka,” which means “boiling” in Swahili. Don’t worry though — the water doesn’t boil; it just gently bubbles up from the earth.

The water is clean and clear, and you can see all the way to the bottom. It’s deep in the middle, perfect for swimming and floating. There are also shallow spots where you can sit and relax.

Why People Love It

People visit Chemka Hot Springs for many reasons. Some go to swim, others to relax, and many just want to escape from the noise of the town and have some peace. The area is surrounded by fig and palm trees, and the branches hang over the water, creating cool shade that makes it comfortable even on hot days.

There’s also a rope swing tied to one of the trees, and it is popular and used by both kids and adults. You hold the rope, swing out over the water, and drop in the water with a splash.

You might also notice there are little fish in the water. They swim around your feet and give you a gentle, tickling feeling. This makes Chemka hotspring as a natural “fish spa”, and so many people enjoy the experience of visiting Chemka Hotspring.

Getting There

Chemka is located about 40 kilometers from Moshi and 70 kilometers from Arusha. The trip takes about 1.5 hours from Moshi and around 2 hours from Arusha, depending on the road and traffic.

When you re reaching at the last part of the road, the road here is a bit rough, with some bumps and dust, so it is advisable to go with a guide or a tour company. Many local tour operators offer trips to Chemka. You can go for a half-day tour or full-day tour. Most tours include transport, entrance fees, and sometimes lunch or snacks.

You can also go with a private car if you know the area, but having a local guide helps make things to go smoother and fun.

What You Should Bring to Kikuletwa Chemka Hotspring

To enjoy your time at Chemka Hot Springs, here are a few things you might want to pack:

• Swimwear: You will likely go and swim, it is better to prepare for the swim
• Towel: For drying yourself after swimming.
• Water shoes or sandals: The rocks at the bottom of water can be slippery or sharp, sometimes it is advisable to wear them.
• Sunscreen : It is better to take it because sometimes even in the shade, the sun can be strong.
• Snacks and drinks: Some tour operators provide food, but it is always good to bring your own extra snacks and drinks.
• Camera or smartphone: Going to this beautiful place should really ake you want to capture the beautiful surroundings.
• Change of clothes :After swimming, it would be nice to change those wet clothes and put on dry ones.

There are usually small vendors at the hot springs selling drinks, snacks, and sometimes local food like chipsi mayai (a Tanzanian-style tasty omelette with fries). But it’s always smart to bring your own just in case.

A Perfect Day Trip from Moshi or Arusha

Chemka Hot Springs is a favorite day trip tour for locals and a great add-on for travelers who are visiting Mount Kilimanjaro or going on safari. It is a perfect for a day trip since you can unwind, swim in natural water, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature.

If you are on safari or vacation and you are spending a few days in Moshi or Arusha, going to Chemka hotspring is a great way to refresh your body and mind. This place is also a nice place to meet other travelers or chat with local families who come to enjoy the water.

Final Thoughts

Tanzania is full of natural beauty: safaris, mountains, beaches, and Chemka Hot Springs is one of those special places. The place is quiet, clean, and filled with joy from people around. Here you will not likely find big crowds or loud music, just the sound of water, birds, and laughter of people.

So, next time you are in northern Tanzania, after your safari or Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking, take a day and visit Chemka Hotspring. Get in the clear blue water and swim, swing from the trees, and enjoy one of Tanzania’s most peaceful destination.