Kikuletwa (Chemka) Hot Springs (Maji Moto) is one of the popular day excursions from Moshi. It is located around 40 km from Moshi, near Rundugai in Hai District, with the journey taking roughly 45–90 minutes each way, depending on road conditions. The final section is an unpaved road.
Despite the name “hot springs,” the water is generally reported to be around 26–27°C, so it is better described as pleasantly warm rather than genuinely hot.
Tour overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting point | Moshi |
| Destination | Kikuletwa/Chemka Hot Springs |
| Distance | Approximately 40 km |
| Driving time | About 45–90 minutes each way |
| Duration | Full day, approximately 7–9 hours |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Main activity | Swimming and relaxation |
| Water temperature | Around 26–27°C |
| Walking | Minimal |
| Best for | Couples, families, groups, solo travellers and post-Kilimanjaro relaxation |
Detailed Itinerary
7:30 AM – Pick-up from Moshi
Your driver/guide picks you up from your hotel in Moshi.
After a short briefing, depart towards Boma Ng’ombe and Rundugai.
The drive takes you away from the busy streets of Moshi into rural Tanzania, passing villages, farms and open countryside.
Driving time: approximately 1–1.5 hours.
An early departure is recommended because the springs can become busier later in the morning.
8:30–9:00 AM – Scenic Drive Through Rural Tanzania
Continue toward Kikuletwa.
The paved road eventually gives way to a rougher dirt/gravel road. Road conditions can affect the journey time, particularly after rainfall.
Along the way, visitors may see:
- Local villages
- Small farms
- Maasai communities
- Open grassland
- Acacia trees
- Dry riverbeds
- Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru views when visibility is good
The journey itself gives visitors a glimpse of rural life outside Moshi.
9:00 AM – Arrive at Kikuletwa Hot Springs
Arrive at the springs and complete the entrance formalities.
Your guide shows you the swimming area, changing facilities and suitable places to leave your belongings.
The spring is surrounded by lush vegetation and large trees, creating a striking contrast with the drier landscape along the approach road.
There are basic facilities at the site, including toilets, changing areas and shaded places to relax.
9:15 AM – 11:30 AM: Swimming & Relaxation
This is the main activity of the day.
The clear turquoise water is the major attraction at Kikuletwa.
Visitors can:
- Swim
- Float in the natural pools
- Relax under the trees
- Take photographs
- Enjoy the rope swing
- Explore the edges of the pools
- Watch small fish in the water
- Relax in the shade
The water is generally around 26–27°C, making it comfortable for swimming rather than the very hot water some visitors expect from the name “hot springs.
Rope swing
One of the most popular activities is the rope swing, where visitors swing from the trees and jump into the deeper section of the pool.
Guests should only use the swing when conditions are safe and should follow the guide/site instructions.
Important Swimming Safety
This is particularly important to mention on your website.
The main pool can be very deep, with some published descriptions putting the deepest sections at approximately 6–10 metres. There are limited areas where swimmers can stand.
Therefore:
- Strong swimmers can enjoy the deeper areas.
- Weak swimmers should stay in appropriate shallow areas or use a flotation device.
- Children should remain within an adult’s reach.
- Do not jump into areas unless the depth and conditions are known.
- Follow local safety instructions.
- Do not assume that a lifeguard is present.
11:30 AM – Relaxation & Photography
After swimming, take some time to dry off and explore the surrounding area.
This is a good time for photographs of:
- Turquoise water
- Fig trees
- Natural vegetation
- Rope swing
- Pool surroundings
- Group photos
Guests who do not want to swim can simply relax under the trees and enjoy the scenery.
12:00 PM – Picnic / Local Lunch
Enjoy lunch at or near the springs, depending on the arrangements for the day.
A typical packed or local lunch could include:
- Rice
- Chicken
- Beef
- Vegetables
- Beans
- Fruit
- Soft drink or juice
Vegetarian and other dietary requirements should be requested when booking.
Keep food and drinks away from the swimming water and dispose of rubbish responsibly.
1:00 PM – Second Swimming Session
After lunch, guests can return to the water for another swim.
This is also a good opportunity for guests who prefer a slower pace to simply relax in the shade.
For clients who are tired after a Kilimanjaro climb, this can be kept completely relaxed—there is no hiking involved.
2:30 PM – Change & Prepare for Departure
Return to the changing area, change into dry clothes and prepare for the journey back to Moshi.
Before leaving, check that you have:
- Phone
- Camera
- Wallet
- Passport/important documents
- Towels
- Swimming equipment
- Personal belongings
3:00 PM – Depart Kikuletwa
Begin the drive back to Moshi.
The first section is again on the rough dirt road before joining the main road.
4:00–4:30 PM – Arrive in Moshi
Drop-off at your hotel in Moshi.
The exact arrival time depends on road conditions, traffic and how long guests spend at the springs.
What to Bring
Essential
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Dry change of clothes
- Comfortable sandals/water shoes
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Drinking water
- Waterproof phone pouch/dry bag
- Camera
- Insect repellent
Optional
- Goggles
- Waterproof camera
- Floatation device for weak swimmers
- Small amount of Tanzanian shillings
- Snacks
Because the changing facilities are basic, I recommend clients wear their swimming clothes underneath their hiking/travel clothes before leaving Moshi.
Kikuletwa Day Trip – Suggested Website Inclusions
Included
- Private transport from Moshi
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Kikuletwa entrance fees
- Drinking water
- Picnic/local lunch
- Swimming and sightseeing
- Government/community fees where applicable
Excluded
- Tips
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic drinks
- Float rental
- Extra food or drinks purchased at the springs
- Accommodation
- Anything not specifically mentioned under “Included”
Best Time to Visit
Kikuletwa can be visited throughout the year, but early morning is preferable if clients want a quieter experience and clearer water.
The site can become busy later in the morning, particularly on weekends.y.
