Meru Tourist Attractions
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The town of Meru is located on the northern slopes of Mount Kenya, about five miles north of the equator. Meru is an important coffee producing area. Farmer cooperatives process in their own coffee factories near the farmers.Some of the best miraa is produced around Meru. Miraa are the small twigs and leaves of an evergreen tree that many of the locals will be seen chewing. Miraa is a mild stimulant that is rooted in cultural traditions. The miraa market in Meru provides an opportunity for visitors to try this popular culinary pastime.The Meru National Museum is worth a visit. Displays include an explanation of evolution, mounted wildlife, as well as clothing, weapons and initiation practices of the Meru people.
Meru National Park
Meru National Park is one of the unspoiled and least visited reserves. Abundant jungle, tall grass and swamps are due to the generous amount of rain that falls annually. Meru straddles the equator with 13 rivers and many streams that flow within its boundaries. The rivers, lined with doum palm trees, tamarind and acacia trees, abound with hippos and crocodiles.George and Joy Adamson released several hand-reared animals, including the son of the famous lioness Elsa and their cheetah Pippa in Meru National Park. Else was the subject of the book 'Born Free'. The wildlife in the park includes lion, elephant, cheetah, leopard and some of the rarer antelopes. Large prides of lion can be seen and some of Kenya's largest herds of buffalo. Poaching was a big problem in Meru National Park during the 1980's but now the herds are settling down to breed again.Over 300 species of birds have been recorded in Meru National Park. The banks of the Rojewero River are popular with bird watchers searching for the rarely seen Peter's finfoot, palm-nut vulture and Pel's fishing owl.
