Stretched out along the eastern side of the Mt Kenya ring road, Meru isn’t so much a base of operations for Mount Kenya or Meru National park, but rather a travel hub. Whether you end up having to spending the night here, or just stop to stock up on various commodities, it’s worth a look around.
Because it’s a regional service centre and not a tourist destination you’ll rarely hassled on the streets, despite them being alive with activities. The colorful main market is worth a stroll and if you ever thought of chewing miraa, Meru is the epicenter of Kenyan production.
It’s quite a climb up to Meru from either Isiolo or Embu, and in the rainy season you will find yourself lost in the clouds. However, when the weather is clear there are superb views for miles over the surrounding lowlands, and you may catch glimpses of Mt Kenya.
The town is focal point for the Meru people.