Moshi: Chemka Hot Springs swim & picnic with local guide

Summary

Swim in crystal-clear Chemka waters, share laughs, and unwind under shady trees

You’ll float in Chemka’s clear springs near Moshi, try out the rope swing (or just watch), eat lunch under shady trees, and share laughs with locals and your guide. With pickup included and plenty of time to swim or just relax by the water’s edge, it’s an easygoing day you’ll remember long after your skin dries off.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wonder what it feels like to float in water so clear you can see your own toes waving back at you? That’s pretty much how our day trip to Chemka Hot Springs from Moshi started. The drive out was longer than I thought—about an hour—but the windows were down and the air smelled like dust and green things. Our driver, Juma, pointed out the baobabs along the way and told us how locals call this place “Kikuletwa.” I tried saying it. He laughed (in a nice way) and said I almost had it right.

The first thing that hit me at Chemka was the sound—kids splashing, someone playing music off their phone, birds arguing overhead. The water isn’t actually hot, more like a warm hug after a long walk. There’s this rope swing tied to a tree; I watched some brave souls launch themselves in. My own attempt was less graceful—let’s just say my landing made a bigger splash than planned. Lunch was simple but hit the spot: rice, chicken, fruit, eaten cross-legged on a blanket under these big leafy trees. You could smell grilled corn somewhere nearby, too.

I liked that nobody rushed us. We swam until our fingers wrinkled and lay back watching sunlight flicker through the branches. There were dragonflies everywhere—bright blue ones—and at one point a local family waved us over to join their game of cards (I lost badly). On the way back to Moshi I felt that kind of tired you only get from swimming outside all afternoon. Still think about that water sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Chemka Hot Springs Tour

• Drive from Moshi to Chemka Hot Springs
• Swim and relax at Chemka Hot Springs
• Enjoy picnic lunch by the springs
• Optional cultural tour at Rundugai
• Return to Moshi hotel

Top questions

How far is Chemka Hot Springs from Moshi?

Chemka Hot Springs is about an hour’s drive from Moshi.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Moshi are included.

What should I bring for swimming at Chemka Hot Springs?

You’ll need a swimsuit; everything else is provided including lunch and water.

Is lunch included on the Chemka Hot Springs tour?

Yes, a lunch box is included as part of your day trip.

Can anyone join this tour or do I need to be fit?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Are there guides or locals on site?

You’ll have a driver guide with you throughout the experience.

How deep is the water at Chemka Hot Springs?

The pond can be up to 10 meters deep in some places but is very clear.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from your Moshi hotel with a local driver-guide, entry fees for Chemka Hot Springs, bottled water (1.5L), and a picnic-style lunch before heading back refreshed in the afternoon.