We pick you up this morning from either Clock Tower or your hotel in Arusha after breakfast, giving you ample time to make the most of the day without feeling rushed. The drive to Chemka Hot Springs takes approximately two hours, covering about 75 kilometers, with a shift from tarmac roads to dusty village paths as you approach Kikuletwa.

Chemka is the only natural hot spring of its kind probably in whole of East Africa with crystal-clear, geothermally heated water – though the name “hot springs” is a bit of a misnomer, as the water remains refreshingly warm rather than hot. Situated in a lush pocket of greenery on the plains near Mount Kilimanjaro, this underground-fed spring is a rare phenomenon where the water is filtered through volcanic rock, giving it an almost unreal clarity.

The pool is deep in some sections, making it suitable for experienced swimmers, while the shallow areas allow non-experienced swimmers to enjoy a plunge as well. The gentle current adds a soothing feel, and the tiny fish nibbling at your feet offer an unexpected natural spa experience. A swimsuit, towel, and water shoes are useful, and goggles help you take in the underwater views. While floating beneath the overhanging fig and palm trees, it is easy to forget you are in the middle of a dry Maasai country. After a leisurely swim, a picnic lunch is served in the shade, with time to relax, chat with your guide, and enjoy the peaceful setting before the return trip.

By early evening, we head back to Arusha and drop-off at your hotel.