WHAT VISITORS NEED TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO KIKULETWA HOT SPRINGS
The Kikuletwa Hot Springs are a wonderful way to unwind before or after your safari in Tanzania and offer a different experience to accompany your game drives throughout the Northern Circuit / Image: nichika-sakurai
Surrounded by the Tanzanian Savannah on the northern circuit, the Kikuletwa Hot Springs, also known as the Chemka Hot Springs or Rundugai Hot Springs, is a must-see destination for anyone traveling through Arusha or Kilimanjaro.
This natural wonder, with its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, is the perfect place to unwind and refresh after several days on safari in the nearby national parks.
Kikuletwa Hot Springs isn’t near any major tourist centers, so it takes a bit of planning to get there. We’ve done the research for you and compiled all the important information travelers need to know for their visit in this guide.
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A safari vehicle drives through the short grass plains with elephants either sides of the tracks / Image: cedric-dhaenens
What Makes Kikuletwa Hot Springs So Special
The Kikuletwa Hot Springs are a remarkable natural site tucked deep within Tanzania’s bush. Its sparkling blue pools stay warm year-round thanks to steady geothermal activity beneath the surface. This pristine oasis, naturally hidden from view, is surrounded by beautiful green trees that create a calm, secluded atmosphere, making it feel like a secret escape far removed from everyday life.
When it comes to swimming in the Kikuletwa Hot Spring, visitors are allowed to do so, as it’s safe. However, the water is quite deep, so it’s best to get in only if you’re a confident swimmer or make sure to hire a float or use arm bands for extra support.
Be aware that just because it’s a hot spring, it doesn’t mean the water will be warm on the day you go there, as temperatures can vary. At times, it may feel hot, and on other days, it can shift to being noticeably cooler. Most of the time, though, it stays somewhere in the middle, with a consistently warm temperature.
Where Are the Kikuletwa Hot Springs Located?
A hugely popular stop on the northern circuit, the Kikuletwa Hot Springs are located about a two-hour drive from the well-known city of Arusha. Nearby settlements like Boma Ng'ombe are less than a 40-minute drive away, and Moshi is only about an hour and ten minutes from the springs.
Anyone who wants to fly into one of Tanzania’s airports to get here, Kilimanjaro Airport is the closest, just an hour’s drive from the site. This is why it’s easy to combine a visit here with a safari, as most travelers fly in or out of this airport.
How to Get from Arusha to Kikuletwa Hot Springs
Arusha will be the main starting point for visitors heading to the Kikuletwa Hot Springs. Since many tours depart from this city, your safari operator can arrange transport for you, as they'll be looking after your itinerary. This will eliminate the need for you to handle the logistics yourself.
Using a trusted operator gives you the advantage of having direct, stress-free transport to the spring. But it also comes with plenty of other fantastic extras, like the chance to stop for food when you want and receive lots of valuable local insights from an experienced guide.
For those who would prefer to visit the Kikuletwa Hot Springs on their own, it’s possible to get there using a mix of public transport and taxi. However, the journey will take much longer compared to traveling directly with a tour company. You would first need to take a bus to Boma la Ngombe and then continue by taxi from there. This option works, but travelers should be prepared for the trip to take much longer, as you have to make multiple stops rather than going there directly.
How to Get from Moshi (Kilimanjaro) to Kikuletwa Hot Springs
If you’re coming from Moshi or Kilimanjaro, you can either use a tour company to organize your transport or travel by public transport.
The journey by road takes around an hour and 10 minutes, so it’s not too long. There are also cab drivers who can take you there if you prefer not to go with a tour company, though fares may vary.
For public transport, similar to traveling from Arusha, you’ll need to take a bus to Boma la Ngombe and then connect via taxi to reach the hot springs.
The bustling and busy town of Arusha. The Kikuletwa Hot Springs are only a couple of hours drive away and offer a slice of paradise to immerse yourself in / Image: hugo-ramos
What Are the Entrance Fees for Kikuletwa Hot Springs?
Visitors will need to pay a small entrance fee to access the Kikuletwa Hot Springs, which costs TZS 10,000 ($4.07). This fee gives you full entry to the site and allows you to swim freely in the springs. If you choose to add extras, such as renting a tube or buying food, those services come with additional charges, and prices vary.
A Rundown of Kikuletwa Hot Springs’s Facilities
Even though Kikuletwa Hot Springs is situated in an area with limited services, visitors will still find plenty of proper facilities on-site during their stay. Here’s what’s available:
Vendors selling drinks and food
Changing rooms
Tube and goggles rentals
Toilets
Parking area
Does Kikuletwa Hot Springs Have Accommodation?
There isn’t any accommodation directly at the Kikuletwa Hot Springs, as they're located in a fairly remote area. If you want to stay nearby, it’s better to book lodging in either Boma Ng'ombe or Moshi, both of which are significantly closer than Arusha and have a decent amount of places to stay.
In Boma Ng’ombe, there are several properties, such as Safi House and B-More Comfort Stay. Moshi also has a wide range of hotels, including Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel and Kibo Palace Hotel.
What to Pack for the Kikuletwa Hot Springs
It’s advised to pack everything you need in advance for the Kikuletwa Hot Springs, since you won’t be able to pick up many items when you get there. Here’s what should be on your packing list.
Swimming gear
Flip-flops
A towel
Sunscreen
Backpack to store everything
Cash to pay for the entrance fees
Insect repellent
Snacks in case you don’t like the food options on site
Water
A Vervet Monkey sitting comfortably gazing at the camera. Vervet monkies are seen regularly at the Kikuletwa Hot Springs / Image: ivan-sabayuki
Tips for Visiting Kikuletwa Hot Springs
Prepare Yourself for a Bumpy Ride
While most of the journey to Kikuletwa Hot Springs is fairly smooth, the final stretch is very different. For this section, the road conditions are quite poor, so expect a bumpy ride. If you’re someone who struggles with motion sickness, it’s a good idea to sit at the front of the vehicle to make things more comfortable.
Watch Out for the Fish
Inside the hot springs, you’ll notice a number of small fish that might nibble on your feet if you stand still for too long. Many visitors aren’t too concerned about this, but some people may find it unpleasant. Consider wearing water shoes if it bothers you.
Get There Early
Try to visit the spring early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Most visitors show up from late morning to early afternoon. These peak times can bring larger groups that take away from the peaceful atmosphere. Arriving as soon as it opens gives you the best chance to enjoy the place when it’s quiet and at its most charming.
Don’t Forget to Use the Rope Swing
Make sure to give the rope swing a try at Kikuletwa Hot Springs. It’s set up along the edge for visitors to launch themselves right into the water. There will likely be people already waiting to have a go when you arrive, so you shouldn’t have any trouble spotting it.
Avoid Feeding the Monkeys
From time to time, monkeys gather around the area. They’re usually harmless and will keep their distance from the crowds. However, occasionally they approach people. If this happens, it’s important not to feed them. Unfortunately, this will only encourage them to return expecting more food, and they can become aggressive when they don’t get what they want.
FAQs
Can people visit the Kikuletwa Hot Springs year-round?
Yes, the Kikuletwa Hot Springs stay open year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. This is when Tanzania has favorable weather conditions, with minimal rainfall and clear sunny skies on most days.
Are there any interesting attractions near the Kikuletwa Hot Springs?
There are plenty of exciting attractions near Kikuletwa Hot Springs that you can enjoy after your visit. Admire the powerful Materuni Waterfalls, take a guided tour through a local coffee plantation, enjoy a clear view of Mount Kilimanjaro, or learn about local culture by visiting nearby Maasai villages. If you have extra time, you can also plan a trip to some of the region’s famous wildlife areas, such as the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Do I need to buy my tickets for the Kikuletwa Hot Springs in advance?
No, you don’t need to buy tickets for the Kikuletwa Hot Springs in advance, as you can only pay on arrival. Some tour operators may include the fees in their packages, but it depends on their policy.
How long should I spend at the Kikuletwa Hot Springs?
You’re able to spend as much time as you like at the Kikuletwa Hot Springs in Tanzania, but most people stay for a few hours before checking out some other sites in the area.
What are the opening hours for the Kikuletwa Hot Springs?
The Kikuletwa Hot Springs are open every day from 8 AM to 6:30 PM. However, make sure to double-check the opening hours before visiting, as they may change at short notice.
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