Plans set to boost mountain tourism in Meru

The County has launched a Sh30 million initiative to promote mountain tourism. 

Last weekend the plan kicked off by flagging a four-wheel drive race from Theemwe-Mt Kenya route to the scenic Ellis Lake, located on the eastern slopes of Mt Kenya.

The vehicles accessed the lake through the recently upgraded road to Mt Kenya, a project that cost the county Sh30 million.

Tourists from Meru, Nairobi, Mombasa and other areas witnessed the exciting race and viewed the lake Ellis and other attractions in the area, which also teems with elephants and other wildlife.

Deputy Governor Titus Ntuchiu (pictured) and Trade, Tourism and Cooperatives Executive Maingi Mugambi said the administration was keen to promote mountain tourism as a means of generating income, development of infrastructure and creating employment opportunities for locals.

Noting that mountain tourism had the potential to transform the tourism sector in Meru, Mr Ntuchiu said Lake Ellis, the forest and Mt Kenya were gems that the administration would like to tap to increase tourist numbers.

Some residents watched the four-wheel vehicles navigate the stretch from Theemwe to Lake Ellis on Saturday, while others got the opportunity to see them at Lake Nkunga mythical "Nkunga sacred lake" located in the lower Imenti forest in Buuri sub-county.

“After seeing the excitement by participants of the challenge and how much they have enjoyed the magical view of this magnificent lake, I want to take this opportunity to welcome mountaineers and other lovers of adventure to Meru and to Lake Ellis,” said Mr Ntuchiu.