Chemka, also known as Kikuletwa, is a natural spring that forms a clear blue-green pool surrounded by trees in the lowlands south of Mount Kilimanjaro. The water is pleasantly warm, deep enough to swim, and clear enough to see the bottom, and visitors spend a few hours swimming, floating and swinging on the rope swings or sitting under the shady fig trees. The site has basic facilities and is used by locals as well as by tourists. It is not a spa in the European sense, so there are no treatments or polished lounges. The charm lies in its simplicity. A day trip is straightforward from Moshi, which is the closer base, and possible from Arusha. Many people pair it with Materuni waterfalls and coffee on a longer day.
Make the most of it
Go on a weekday if you can, because weekends tend to be busier. Arrive in the morning, when the water is calm and the light on the trees is soft. Bring a swimsuit, a towel, sandals you can get wet and a dry change of clothes. Some visitors bring a snack, though many tours include lunch. Goggles are handy because the water is clear, but leave valuables locked in the vehicle.
What to expect
Facilities are simple, with a small area for changing and perhaps a stall with drinks. The spring flows steadily year-round, so it is a good rainy-day choice when other outings are muddy. Take care on slippery steps and around the swings, and keep a close eye on children, because the water is deeper in places than it looks.
Getting there
The last stretch of road can be rough, especially after rain. Many visitors go with a driver, and a standard tour handles transport, entry and lunch. Fees are charged by the site and vary, so confirm that entry is included. It is a quiet, restorative way to spend the day after a long safari or a Kilimanjaro hike, and it asks nothing of you but a swimsuit.
What to expect
The experience
A guided trip to the Chemka spring pool with time to swim, float, use the rope swings and relax, with transport and usually lunch arranged by the operator.
Best time
Weekday mornings for a quiet pool; the spring flows year-round.
How long
About six hours including the drive from Moshi.
Tips
Bring a swimsuit, towel and water shoes, avoid weekends if you can, and keep valuables locked in the vehicle.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a relaxed swim and shade after a hike or safari.
- Families
- Children love the rope swings, but supervise them closely in the deeper water.
- Couples
- A lazy, inexpensive day with warm water and shade.
- Pair with
- Materuni waterfalls and coffee, or a Kilimanjaro day hike on the day before.
- Time needed
- Half a day to a full day.
Good questions
Is the water really hot?+
It is pleasantly warm rather than hot, so you can swim comfortably for hours. It is more of a warm spring pool than a thermal spa.
How far is it from Moshi?+
It is roughly an hour's drive from Moshi, and longer from Arusha, so Moshi is the easier base.
Is it crowded?+
Weekends tend to be busier, and weekday mornings are usually quieter.
What should I bring?+
A swimsuit, towel, water shoes, sunscreen and a change of clothes. Keep valuables in the vehicle.
Are there facilities?+
Facilities are simple, with changing areas and a small stall for drinks. Do not expect spa services.
