The Chemka Hot Springs are one of Tanzania’s most extraordinary and least-publicised natural wonders. Known locally as Maji Moto — Swahili for ‘hot water’ — and formally named Kikuletwa Hot Springs, this geothermal oasis sits in the middle of the semi-arid Maasai steppe approximately 90 minutes from Moshi, surrounded by a grove of ancient fig and palm trees that makes it feel like a mirage. The water is crystal-clear, warm, and fed by underground springs with a direct geological connection to Mount Kilimanjaro — an extraordinary fact that adds a layer of wonder to the simple act of floating in it.
Many visitors describe Chemka as the most unexpectedly magical experience of their entire Tanzania trip. It is a day that asks nothing of you except to be present in one of the most beautiful natural swimming spots in East Africa. This guide tells you exactly what to expect.
| Chemka Hot Springs at a glance |
| Location: Rundugai village, between Moshi and Arusha — approximately 90km from Moshi |
| Also known as: Kikuletwa Hot Springs | Maji Moto | Rundugai Hot Springs |
| Distance from Moshi: approximately 1–1.5 hours by road |
| Water temperature: approximately 26°C (warm, not hot) year-round |
| Water clarity: exceptional — crystal-clear turquoise with underwater spring visible |
| Duration: half day or full day options available |
| Price from: $60 per person (Serac Adventure, includes transport, guide, lunch) |
| Best for: relaxation, couples, families, post-Kilimanjaro recovery, any traveller in Moshi |
What makes Chemka so special?
The water
The water at Chemka is genuinely extraordinary. Fed by underground geothermal springs that interact with Kilimanjaro’s vast underground water system, it is warm (approximately 26°C — comfortable for extended swimming), crystal clear, and never stagnant. The spring can be seen actively bubbling from the sandy lake floor in several places, pushing up plumes of sand and creating a mesmerising underwater show. The water’s clarity is comparable to the finest snorkelling sites in the Indian Ocean — you can see clearly to the bottom at 4–5 metres depth.
The colour changes through the day — ranging from deep turquoise to emerald green to clear azure depending on the light and the angle. Photographs taken at Chemka regularly look like they have been filtered — the colours are genuinely that saturated.
The setting
The springs are enclosed within a grove of ancient fig trees, date palms, and riverine vegetation that creates a dense canopy above the water. The contrast between the surrounding semi-arid Maasai steppe and the lush, shaded oasis of the springs is dramatic — arriving at Chemka after the hour-long drive across dry, flat bush feels like discovering a secret garden. Kingfishers dart between the branches. African fish eagles call overhead. Colobus monkeys occasionally crash through the canopy. The silence is profound when the springs are quiet.
The atmosphere
Chemka attracts a relatively small number of visitors compared to the northern circuit safari parks — it remains genuinely off the main tourist trail. On weekdays, the springs can feel almost deserted. Even on busier weekends, the atmosphere is relaxed, unhurried, and intimate. There are no scheduled activities, no rush, no itinerary. You arrive, you get in the water, you stay for as long as you want.
Activities at Chemka Hot Springs
Swimming and floating
The primary activity — and the most satisfying. The warm, clear water is ideal for all levels of swimmer. The pool has shallow areas near the edges and deeper water (4–5 metres) in the centre. Children can play safely in the shallower areas. Confident swimmers can explore the underwater spring outlets. Non-swimmers can float comfortably in the warm water for hours.
Rope swings and tree jumping
Several rope swings and tree branches overhang the deeper parts of the pool, and jumping from various heights into the warm water is a popular activity particularly with younger visitors and more adventurous adults. The jumps are optional — the atmosphere is never pressured.
Snorkelling
While not marketed as a snorkelling site, the exceptional water clarity makes mask and snorkel an excellent addition. Looking down at the spring outlets bubbling from the sandy floor with small fish darting around is a genuinely beautiful underwater experience. Bring your own snorkel if you have one.
Wildlife watching
The grove surrounding the springs is a productive birding area. Kingfishers are almost always present — three species have been recorded at Chemka. African fish eagles are a regular feature overhead. Colobus monkeys occasionally appear in the highest fig tree canopy. The drive to Chemka through Maasai steppe often produces giraffe, zebra, and occasionally elephant sightings along the roadside.
What to bring
- Swimwear — the main activity requires it
- Towel — the spring area has no drying facilities
- Aqua shoes or water shoes — the pool entry and floor can be slippery
- Sunscreen — the water surface reflects UV intensely even in the shade of trees
- Snorkel and mask (optional) — excellent visibility rewards underwater exploration
- Change of clothes — you will be thoroughly wet
- Water and snacks — though a packed lunch is included in Serac Adventure tours
- Insect repellent — the surrounding vegetation harbours mosquitoes particularly in the morning
Getting to Chemka from Moshi
The springs are located in Rundugai village, approximately 90km from Moshi and 100km from Arusha. The drive takes 1–1.5 hours from Moshi. The road passes through the dry Maasai steppe — a flat, open landscape dotted with acacia trees and occasional Maasai settlements that creates a striking visual contrast to the oasis waiting at the end.
Serac Adventure picks up all clients from their Moshi hotel for the Chemka day trip. We recommend a morning departure (8:00–9:00am) to arrive at the springs before the hottest part of the day and allow maximum time in the water.
Practical information
| Detail | Information |
| Departure time | 8:00–9:00am from Moshi hotel |
| Return time | Approximately 2:00–4:00pm (half day) or 5:00pm (full day) |
| Distance from Moshi | ~90km — approximately 1–1.5 hours each way |
| Water temperature | ~26°C year-round |
| Best time to visit | Year-round — water temperature and clarity unchanged seasonally |
| Minimum age | All ages welcome — excellent for families with young children |
| Price from | $60 per person including transport, guide, and packed lunch |
Frequently asked questions: Chemka Hot Springs
Is the water at Chemka Hot Springs actually hot?
‘Hot’ is slightly misleading — the water is warm rather than hot, at approximately 26°C. This is pleasantly warm for swimming and comfortable for extended time in the water, but not a scalding thermal pool. The warmth comes from geothermal activity in the underground water system connected to Mount Kilimanjaro’s volcanic geology.
Is Chemka safe for children?
Yes — Chemka is excellent for families with children of all ages. The shallow edges of the pool are suitable for young children and non-swimmers. The warm, calm water is far more child-friendly than open ocean swimming. Adult supervision is essential for younger children near the deeper central section.
Can I combine Chemka with other Moshi day trips?
The half-day format of the Chemka tour makes it possible to combine with a Moshi town walking tour in the afternoon of the same day. It is most commonly done as a dedicated relaxation day after a Kilimanjaro climb or safari — the warm water is extraordinarily restorative for tired muscles.
| Book the Chemka Hot Springs tour with Serac Adventure Half-day and full-day options available. Hotel pickup from Moshi included. Price from $60 per person — transport, guide, and packed lunch included. Contact us: +255 785 790 460 (WhatsApp) | info@seracadventure.com |
