Chemka Hotspring
Maji Moto, known locally as Chemka Hot Springs, is a paradisiac oasis amidst the Tanzanian savannah, which offers captivating, Bounty-style views, crystal-clear water, and dense vegetation around. Located in a 2-hour drive from Moshi (Tanzania) – the main climbing hub of the region – Chemka Hot Springs is the best place to visit after a Kilimanjaro hike or a safari adventure.
Chemka Oasis is a unique phenomenon – it is the only place in Tanzania (and likely the whole of East Africa) where groundwater actively interacts with geothermal sources, forming small lakes with warm, never-stagnating water, whose purity is not inferior to that of the best Dominican or Maldivian resorts.
Depth of Chemka Hot Springs
The Kikuletwa Hot Springs, also known as Chemka Hot Spring, is a truly captivating natural wonder. In some areas, the spring can reach a depth of up to 10 meters, though its remarkable clarity makes it appear much shallower. The water is so clear that visitors can easily see the vibrant, mineral-rich bottom even from the surface, adding to the allure of this hidden gem. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering palm trees, the spring offers a surreal experience as the warm waters, fed by underground volcanic activity, create an inviting oasis. The vibrant blue waters seem to glow, creating a perfect contrast against the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re relaxing in the thermal waters or simply marveling at the beauty of this secluded spot, the tranquil atmosphere of Kikuletwa Hot Springs is a perfect escape into nature.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kikuletwa Hot Springs is during the dry season from June to October, when the weather is warm and clear, making it ideal for swimming and enjoying the serene surroundings. While the springs are accessible year-round, the wet season from November to May bring occasional rain, which could make access a bit more challenging, though it also offers a lush, vibrant landscape for those seeking a different experience.
How to Get There
To get to Kikuletwa Hot Springs:
- From Moshi:
About 5 hours (50 km) by taxi or private car. Head towards Rombo district from Moshi town. - From Arusha:
Around 5 to 3 hours (120 km) by car via the Arusha-Moshi highway, then head towards Rombo. - Public Transport:
Take a bus to Rombo, then hire a local taxi or bodaboda for the last stretch.
Guided Tours:
Many tour operators in Moshi or Arusha offer organized day trips to Kikuletwa Hot Springs, which will include transportation, a guide, and sometimes a lunch package. Once you reach the vicinity of Kikuletwa Hot Springs, follow local signs or ask for directions to the entry point, as it’s tucked away amidst lush vegetation and is not always visible from the main roads.
Feel free to contact our experts to learn more about Kikuletwa Hot Springs!
Facts About Kikuletwa Hot Springs
- Secret Swimming Pool Beyond the main pool of Kikuletwa Hot Springs is hidden deeper within the vegetation.
- Historical Significance to the Chaga people
- The depth of the place is 10 meters.
The Story of Healing Water.
Long before the springs became a popular destination for tourists, the Chaga people used the waters of Kikuletwa Hot Springs for healing purposes.
It’s said that people suffering from illnesses, particularly skin conditions or joint pain, would visit the springs to soak in the warm waters. Over time, the local community started to refer to the springs as the “healing waters” due to their believed therapeutic properties.
Some older villagers still tell the story of a woman who once healed from a severe case of arthritis after soaking in the hot springs for a month. Whether it’s folklore or truth, the story has kept the legend of Kikuletwa alive as a place of physical and spiritual healing.