Meru Mount Kenya Bandas Elevation / Altitude: 3,000 m above sea level.
Located in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya, the Meru Mount Kenya Bandas offer a cozy mountain hut experience nestled near the Chogoria Gate. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3000 meters within the Parklands, these bandas provide a comfortable and convenient accommodation option for trekkers and adventurers exploring the scenic beauty of Mount Kenya.
To reach the Meru Mount Kenya Bandas, visitors embark on a rugged 22-kilometre drive from Chogoria Village along a picturesque track that winds through the magnificent forest belt. Along the way, travellers are treated to glimpses of diverse wildlife, including buffalo, antelopes, and monkeys, especially during the early morning and evening hours. With luck, visitors may even catch a sighting of elephants roaming in the vicinity.
Each banda at the Meru Mount Kenya Bandas is equipped with clean beds adorned with fresh sheets, blankets, and towels, ensuring a comfortable and restful stay after a day of exploration. Hot water showers are readily available, offering a rejuvenating experience amid the mountainous surroundings. As the temperature drops to around 5°C at night, a roaring fire adds warmth and ambience to the cosy atmosphere of the bandas.
For those venturing further into the wilderness, the Meru Mount Kenya Bandas serve as an ideal basecamp for embarking on treks to the nearby road-head and campsite near the Nithi Gates. The journey along the rough track takes approximately three hours on foot, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Alternatively, travellers may opt to drive to the destination for added convenience.
Visitors summiting Mount Kenya through the Chogoria Gate often choose to spend a night at the Meru Mount Kenya Bandas or pass through the area during their ascent. The cottages boast modern amenities, including hot water facilities for showers and comfortable beds to rest weary limbs after a challenging hike. A small pub on-site offers refreshments, including beers and spirits, allowing guests to unwind and socialize in the cozy atmosphere.
However, one challenge visitors may encounter is the limited power supply at the bandas. The generator operates from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, restricting access to electricity for extended periods. Despite this limitation, many visitors find the rustic charm and tranquil setting of the Meru Mount Kenya Bandas to be a memorable and rewarding experience amidst the rugged beauty of Mount Kenya.
