Scenic Lower Imenti Forest that is home to giant Meru oak trees
What you need to know:
- King Muuru is estimated to be over 360-years-old and is arguably the oldest tree in the Meru region.
- Members of the local community visit the forest frequently not just to enjoy the cool surroundings, but also the sight of the giant tree and the beautiful landscape.
The path that snakes through the thick Lower Imenti Forest narrows as you venture deeper inside.
The blue sky, too, gets blanketed out gradually and soon, everything is cool and reflects the softness of the hour just before twilight.
The only movement is the occasional sound of a bird taking off from a tree branch above or a squirrel darting up a nearby trunk.
Many hours after the rains have subsided, the soil remains wet, slowly releasing its fog into the air.
A walk through this forest leads to a definite rendezvous with the famous Meru Oak tree.
Among all other trees, it stands out for its voluminous and stunningly straight trunk and branches.
Famous among locals as King Muuru (king of Meru oaks), the tree is easily visible from the Kenya Forest Service office located about four kilometres from Meru town along the Meru-Nayuki road.
This name is associated with its old age. King Muuru is estimated to be over 360-years-old and is arguably the oldest tree in the Meru region.
It has a base diameter of 2.7 metres. It takes seven adults holding their hands in a circle to stand around it.
Another astounding feature of the tree is its hollowed inside, which can accommodate several adults comfortably.
SPECIAL SCENERY
Several openings in the tree’s stem serve as ‘doors’ into its cool inside. Other openings higher up are labelled as ‘windows’ by the locals.
Though it has been around for centuries, the long life span has not eroded its majesty. And just like human kings, the giant oak tree does not stand in isolation.
A large forest of big trees spreads out around it, forming a beautiful nature’s garden.
Members of the local community visit the forest frequently not just to enjoy the cool surroundings, but also the sight of the giant tree and the beautiful landscape.
Visitors and locals alike are free to roam the forest, without paying a cent.
This, despite the historical significance of this forest. A visit to the ‘palace of the king of trees’ leaves most visitors appreciating the beauty and wonders of mother nature.
The forest is a perfect example of how mother nature, without human interference, can take care of itself to give humankind the very best that it has to offer.
