Kikuletwa Hot Springs Retreat

The drive takes roughly two hours through the dry country between Arusha and Moshi. We usually collect you from your Arusha hotel at about 8:30 AM and have you back by around 5:00 PM, so most of the day is spent at the springs rather than on the road.

Yes. Kikuletwa and Chemka are two names for the same springs, and you'll hear both in Arusha. Clear water rises from underground volcanic springs into a chain of turquoise pools shaded by fig and palm trees, a green patch in otherwise dry country.

No, it's warm rather than hot. The water is heated underground and stays comfortable for long swims. It's clear and mineral-rich, and the fig and palm canopy keeps much of it in shade, so you can switch between swimming and resting on the bank all day.

Whatever you like, because there's no set programme. Most people swim, try the rope swings that hang from the fig trees over the water, and read or doze in the shade. Lunch is a picnic with chilled drinks under the trees, and nobody is watching the clock.

Yes. A day in warm, clear water is a good way to wash off the dust of the parks before you fly home or move on. Because it starts and ends at your Arusha hotel, it fits easily at the beginning or end of a trip, or between two safaris.

Yes. It runs in a private vehicle with a driver, from and back to your hotel in Arusha, so the day can be timed around your plans. It goes ahead for a single traveller too. Send our Arusha team your preferred date when you enquire.

Your own swimwear, which isn't supplied. Add sunscreen, a hat, sandals or water shoes, and a book or camera for the time between swims. Towels are provided. A light layer helps on the drive back in the late afternoon, and a waterproof pouch is handy for phone photos from the water.

You can go year round. The drier months, roughly June to October and January to February, bring warm, sunny days that suit a long swim. In the rainy season we check conditions before setting off and will tell you if another day would be better.

The Kikuletwa Hot Springs Retreat is a full-day trip.

It is rated easy: no special fitness is needed.

It runs for groups of 1 to 12 travellers.

Included: Private vehicle with driver, Entrance fees to Kikuletwa Hot Springs, Gourmet picnic lunch with beverages, Towels and changing facilities, Hotel pickup and drop-off in Arusha and Bottled water and refreshments.

Not included: International flights, Travel insurance, Personal items, Tips and gratuities and Swimwear (bring your own).