Things To Do
in Meru
Meru, Kenya is a vibrant town situated in the former Eastern Province, serving as the capital of Meru County. It is a gateway to the beautiful Meru National Park, renowned for its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the scenic views of Mount Kenya.
The town boasts a rich cultural heritage, with the Meru people's traditions deeply embedded in the community, alongside modern developments that cater to both local residents and tourists.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Sawa" - Okay
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided safari through Meru National Park, where you can spot elephants, lions, and various bird species. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst the beautiful landscapes of the park.
Have a picnic lunch at one of the scenic viewpoints inside the park. Continue your safari adventure by exploring the diverse ecosystems and looking for rhinos.
Return to your accommodation for dinner while sharing stories from the day. Relax under the stars and listen to the sounds of nature.
Begin with a visit to the Meru Cultural Centre to learn about the rich history and traditions of the Meru people. Enjoy engaging exhibits and interactive displays.
Have lunch at a local restaurant and taste traditional Meru cuisine. Afterward, participate in a cultural workshop, such as bead-making or traditional dancing.
Enjoy a leisurely evening at the centre with live performances of local music and dance. Savor a delicious dinner made from locally sourced ingredients.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
- Beautiful landscapes and natural scenery, including Mount Meru.
- Growing tourism industry with various attractions.
- Favorable climate for agriculture, particularly tea and coffee cultivation.
- Access to wildlife and national parks in the surrounding areas.
- Limited infrastructure and public services in some areas.
- Economic challenges and high levels of poverty.
- Environmental issues, including deforestation and land degradation.
- Possible security concerns due to regional conflicts.
- Access to education and healthcare can be inconsistent.
Best Activities in Meru
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes of Meru National Park on a game drive, offering the chance to see elephants, lions, giraffes, and more in their natural habitat.
Admire the rich diversity of bird species in Bisanadi National Reserve, including kingfishers, hornbills, and ostriches, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Embark on a hiking adventure in the scenic Nyambene Hills, known for its lush forests, beautiful waterfalls, and panoramic views over the surrounding landscape.
Experience the natural beauty of Meru through camping at Rhino River Camp, which offers a tranquil setting along the banks of the Kindani River with opportunities for guided bush walks and cultural visits.
Tours
Uncover the best of Meru with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Meru
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of diverse wildlife and landscapes, including the Tana River and Nyambene Hills.
Provides panoramic views over the park and is a popular spot for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Known for its beautiful scenery and opportunities to spot rare species, making it a great location for photography and wildlife viewing.
Food in Meru
Meru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicious dish made from mashed green peas, potatoes, corn, and seasoned with onions and a touch of salt. It is often served with grilled nyama choma (barbecued meat) for a hearty and satisfying meal. Recommended place to try: Local Nyama Choma joints and eateries.
Must-Try!
Mukimo is a flavorful dish made from mashed green peas, potatoes, maize, and pumpkin leaves. It's a staple in Meru cuisine and is commonly enjoyed with fried or grilled meat. Recommended place to try: Mama Mboga kiosks and local diners.
Meru is renowned for its succulent and well-seasoned barbecued goat meat, locally known as 'nyama choma'. It's a must-try dish that's best enjoyed with a side of ugali (maize meal) and kachumbari (fresh tomato and onion salad). Recommended place to try: Nyama choma joints and local open-air markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Meru better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Gikaru Market is a bustling hub of local culinary delights where visitors can sample an array of street food, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. From fried cassava to spicy grilled meats, the market offers an authentic street food experience that captures the essence of Meru's food culture.
Nkubu Market is a vibrant and colorful marketplace known for its lively atmosphere and abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Visitors can explore the market stalls to discover an assortment of street food options such as mandazi (deep-fried sweet dough), bhajias (spiced potato fritters), and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Meru culture, it is important to show respect to elders through greetings and attentive listening.
Wearing appropriate attire, especially when visiting someone's home or attending a traditional event, is a sign of respect in Meru culture.
In many Meru households, it is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home as a gesture of respect and cleanliness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Meru with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Meru
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Meru, Kenya. It is not expected in most restaurants, hotels, or service establishments.
In Meru, Kenya, cash is the primary method of payment, especially in rural areas. However, urban areas may accept credit and debit cards in some establishments. Mobile money services like M-Pesa are also widely used for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Meru.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Meru, with cooler temperatures and excellent game viewing due to the sparse vegetation.
Lush green landscapes, vibrant birdlife, and the chance to witness the birthing season for many wildlife species.
Meru at Night
Hiking in Meru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring diverse wildlife, scenic landscapes, and hiking trails through varied terrain, including forests and rivers.
An iconic mountain that offers challenging hikes with stunning views at the summit, catering to both seasoned hikers and beginners.
A lesser-known hiking area characterized by rolling hills and rich flora, ideal for nature walks and quiet hikes away from the crowded trails.
A serene forest area that provides multiple trails for hiking enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot various bird species and enjoy nature.
Located a short distance from Meru, these hills offer rewarding hikes with panoramic views and a chance to engage with local wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Meru through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Meru by plane.
The largest airport in Kenya, located approximately 150 kilometers from Meru. It serves as the main international gateway into East Africa.
Located around 300 kilometers from Meru, it is the second-largest international airport in Kenya, serving the western region.
Located in Mombasa, about 400 kilometers from Meru, it is the third-busiest international airport in Kenya.
Situated approximately 380 kilometers from Meru, it serves the northern region of Kenya and offers international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Kikuyu people are the largest ethnic group in Meru, known for their rich agricultural practices and significant cultural influence in the region.
The Meru people are indigenous to the Meru region, known for their unique cultural identity and vibrant traditions.
Embu people are found in the neighboring areas and share cultural ties with the Meru, known for their involvement in agriculture and trade.
The Kamba people reside in the lower parts of Meru and are known for their skills in craftsmanship and trade.
Mbeere people have a presence in the southern parts of Meru and are engaged mainly in farming and pastoralist activities.
The Soul of Meru
Discover the essence of Meru through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, also known as soccer, is the most popular sport in Meru and is played extensively at both amateur and professional levels, with numerous local clubs and youth teams.
Rugby is gaining popularity in Meru, with several schools and colleges participating in inter-school tournaments, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Meru has produced several talented athletes who compete in long-distance running, particularly in regional and national events, contributing to the region's reputation in athletics.
Volleyball is popular among schools and community groups, with both men's and women's teams competing in local and regional leagues.
Basketball has a growing following in Meru, supported by local tournaments and increasing participation among the youth in schools and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Meru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Meru's traditional cuisine predominantly features meat-based dishes, several restaurants and eateries offer vegetarian options such as vegetable stews, salads, and grilled plant-based meals. Additionally, establishments are open to customizing dishes to accommodate vegetarian preferences.
Vegan-friendly options are available at select restaurants and cafes in Meru, featuring plant-based delicacies, salads, and locally inspired vegan creations. Visitors with vegan dietary requirements can enjoy exploring the culinary offerings with thoughtful customization and innovative dishes.
Several dining establishments in Meru provide gluten-free alternatives, including dishes prepared with gluten-free grains, fresh produce, and locally sourced ingredients. Visitors with gluten intolerance can communicate their dietary needs to access a range of suitable menu choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Meru with these cultural adventures.
