This sector has a high potential especially with neighbouring Isiolo County having a resort city as a flagship project under the Kenya Vision 2030. The county expects to benefit from hotel industry among other tourism activities.

Meru dancers entertain guest at a function

Main tourist attractions, national parks/reserves

The tourism industry is fairly developed in the county, with Meru National park being the major tourist centre. The Lewa Downs ranch which is privately owned attracts tourists and competitive sports like the cross country, rhino charge and marathon. The county also has Mt. Kenya which is a major tourist destination. The diverse cultures and heritage among the Meru community are another form of tourist attraction such as conservation of traditional worship places by the ‘Nchuri Ncheke’ elders.

Main wildlife

There are a variety of wildlife such as white elephant, baboons, giraffe, gazelle, buffalos, rhino, cheetah, zebras and different birds’ species. These wildlife species are mainly found in the gazetted game parks and forests such as the Meru National Park, Mt. Kenya National Park and Imenti forest.

Tourist class hotels/restaurants, bed occupancy

The hotel industry has approximately 2,500 bed occupancy capacity. Tourist class hotels are mostly found within the tourist attraction sites, mainly the Meru National Park. These hotels are privately owned with the county having one three star hotel. Most hotels are classified as bars and restaurants or unclassified.