Kikuletwa Hot Springs day trip from Arusha: Swim and rope swing

Swim in naturally warm geothermal water and swing from a rope over the pool

A day trip from Arusha to Kikuletwa Hot Springs, a geothermal pool fed by underground hot springs where you swim, use a rope swing, and eat fresh local food. The drive takes about two hours each way. The full outing runs eight to ten hours. Private transportation, bottled water and lunch are included. An English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day trip to Kikuletwa Hot Springs

• Travel two hours from Arusha
• Arrive at Chemka hot springs
• Swim or jump from rope swing
• Relax in naturally warm water
• Enjoy local food, chips mayai
• Spot Mt. Kilimanjaro views near Moshi
• End day trip and depart

The experience

Two hours from Arusha on a dusty road lies Kikuletwa: also called Chemka or maji moto (hot water in Swahili), a natural pool fed by geothermal springs. The water stays warm year-round. You can float and soak if you want to move slowly, or swim and dive if you want to be active. A rope swing hangs over the water for anyone who wants to jump in from above. The pool sits off the main tourist routes, so you'll find both locals and travelers there.

After swimming, fresh food is cooked for you on-site. Chips mayai (a fried potato and egg dish) is a local favorite, though other options are available. As you drive back toward Arusha and approach Moshi, the clouds sometimes part enough to show Mt. Kilimanjaro on the horizon. Private transportation picks you up from your hotel, and an English-speaking guide travels with you the whole day. Bottled water is provided throughout.

What’s included

• Private transportation from your hotel.
• bottled water throughout the day.
• fresh lunch cooked on-site.
• English-speaking guide for the full outing.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 10:00

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (16 to 35 years) · Senior (36 to 80 years) · Youth (11 to 15 years) · Child (6 to 10 years) · Infant (1 to 5 years)

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 12 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearby

Operated by Home Villa Expeditions

Is this one for you?Book this if your day can absorb eight to ten hours of travel and soaking. Skip it if you're stacking multiple activities into one day.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (11 to 15 years); Child (6 to 10 years); Infant (1 to 5 years).

How far is Kikuletwa Hot Springs from Arusha?

Kikuletwa is about two hours' drive from Arusha on a dusty road, making it a half-day journey each way.

What can I do in the water at Kikuletwa?

You can swim and float in the naturally warm geothermal pool, or use the rope swing to jump in from above the water.

Is lunch included in this day trip?

Yes, lunch is included and cooked fresh on-site. Chips mayai, a local fried potato and egg dish, is popular, and other options are available.

Does the tour include transportation from my hotel?

Private transportation with pickup from your hotel is included. An English-speaking guide travels with you for the full day.

Can I see Mt. Kilimanjaro on this trip?

On the drive back toward Moshi, the clouds sometimes clear enough to glimpse Mt. Kilimanjaro, though views depend on weather and timing.