Hidden Gems in Kenya: 5 Places to Visit in Meru

A collage of Anabas Trout and Seafood Grill (left) and Rhino River Camp (right) in Meru County
A collage of Anabas Trout and Seafood Grill (left) and Rhino River Camp (right) in Meru County
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While Kenya may be known for sandy beaches and wildlife, some beautiful sceneries are often underrated and go unexplored.

Since tourism is a major contributor to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), all areas should be fully explored.

However, some of these breathtaking sites may only be known to locals from the 47 counties. No worries, I bring you closer to Instagram-worthy waterfalls, game drives, exotic trees, endangered animals and so many more.

Let's take a look at Meru County, a county that Brian Njagi, another travel enthusiast, says is at the center of Kenya.

An aerial view of the swimming pool at the Rhino River Camp in Meru County
An aerial view of the swimming pool at the Rhino River Camp in Meru County
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Besides being famous for the lucrative khat (miraa) plant, some tourist attraction sites stand out.

Rhino River Camp

This exquisite camp is at the top of my bucket list, because what's not to like? From the serene environment, the animals, and saving the best for last, a swimming pool overlooking a flowy river.

I am sure you have seen it on several reels on Instagram and TikTok. A rectangular swimming pool on what looks like a wooden deck, some nice seats on the edge, and the icing on the cake, the tall green trees that surround it.

It is situated on 60 acres of privately owned wilderness, the lodge offers the chance to connect with nature and to delight the senses in unspoiled bush and forest.

With the Rhino Sanctuary Gate, you get a chance to meet one of the rarest and most endangered animals on earth - including zebras and some rhino species.

Other animals you will get to see at the camp include giraffes, rhinos, ostriches, monkies, elephants, lions, cheetahs, and zebra among so many more.

What's more, within a short time you can drive to the Meru National Park. 

A collage of a room and swimming pool at the iKweta Safari Camp in Meru county
A collage of a room and swimming pool at the iKweta Safari Camp in Meru county

iKweta Safari Camp

With wide windows in the rooms and fresh air at the iKweta Safari Club, visitors get to see the big five (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard).

The safari camp is located just 2km from the Murera Gate into the Meru National Park and offers a large saltwater swimming pool.

From the thousands and thousands of reviews online, the tents are comfortable and with some even more comfortable seats, you get to enjoy the millions of stars at night.

It is a good link between quality and affordability while also emphasizing eco-friendliness and natural elegance.

Tourists can enjoy exotic bird watching, a game drive and so much more.

A collage of the Devils Bridge Waterfall in Meru County
A collage of the Devils Bridge Waterfall in Meru County
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Devils Bridge Waterfall

Do not let the name scare you because you will end up missing a beautiful 200 meters waterfall.

It is locally, known as "Ndurumo-ya irine" which is loosely translated to irine waterfall, and is formed by River Riiji.

According to legends, the waterfall was a good source of red and white ochre locally known as nondoo in Meru and was used for body decorations.

The waterfall separates two neighbouring villages of Ngo’nyii and Nchaure. As you take each step, you not only get healthier but are overwhelmed by the beauty of our motherland.

Mau Mau's Baobab Tree Hide Out in Meru county
Mau Mau's Baobab Tree Hide-Out in Meru county
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Mau Mau: Black My Story

Mau Mau's Baobab Tree Hide Out

I am sure when you hear the name Mau Mau, our founding fathers come to mind. The late Field Marshal Musa Mwariama and his buddies fought for the freedom we enjoy today.

During the colonial era, a twin baobab tree at the heart of Meru National Park provided a hideout, a kitchen, and a meat store.

They slaughtered meat and hang it inside the hollow tree trunk on wooden pegs to avoid invasion from vultures.

The tree hideout is believed to be about 500 years old.

Anabas Trout and Seafood Grill 

"Bali-like vibes," stated one of the visitors at the Anabas Trout and Seafood Grill.

This beautiful serene site in Igoji town, Meru county has been compared to one of Indonesia's most visited sites.

Take a trip to Anabas Trout and Seafood Grill and let us know if the comparison is accurate.

You will get to enjoy a nice platter of seafood while the sound of the rushing water tickles your eardrums and the fresh air goes in and out of your lungs.

A collage of Anabas Trout and Seafood Grill in Meru County
A collage of Anabas Trout and Seafood Grill in Meru County
TripAdvisor

All guests are guaranteed trout and seafood grill, fly fishing, cycling, and Mt Kenya hikes (if you are into hiking).

Conclusively, Kenya is a beautiful country, brush through every corner and enjoy the beautiful scenery.