Twin Baobab Trees

Historical Sites in Meru

Twin Baobab Trees: A Covert Kitchen?

If trees could tell stories, then a giant twin baobab tree found in Meru National Park would have a lot to tell us. Perhaps the tree would tell us about the wildlife that have grazed around its roots over the years or of those that have lived in its hollow trunk. But the most exhilarating story the baobab tree might tell is that of an encounter between Mau Mau freedom fighters and colonial forces that took place in mid 1950s during the height of the fight for Kenya’s self rule. And since, it serves as living landmarks connecting to the past, representing resilience, beauty, and the continuity of life across generations. The Twin Baobab Tree is passed en-route many places of interest in the Park like River Rojewero and Ikweta Camp.

Located at the Kina Area south of the Park’s Office and Kina Airstrip, the hallowed twin baobab trees are cited in the book, “The Last Mau Mau field Marshals,” by David Njagi: “We would slaughter a buffalo or a bull and hang all the meat inside the hollowed baobab tree. I am the one who hammered the wooden pegs inside the walls of the hollowed trunk of that tree so they could serve as the pegs upon which we could hang the meat. We hung the meat inside to avoid vultures from following us. The vultures could have easily betrayed us to the colonial forces”. It thus gained fame as an inconspicuous and highly efficient kitchen used by Mau Mau Freedom Fighters during the 1952-60 uprising, helping them to keep a low profile in a war that was waged in the forest, survival and defense for both sides.


Kenya is home to numerous historic sites that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage, ancient civilizations, colonial history, and struggle for independence. These historic sites offer valuable insights into Kenya’s past and its diverse cultural heritage, making them essential destinations for visitors interested in her history.


Famous for its wildlife, rich agricultural lands, and stunning natural attractions, Meru County, on the north-eastern slopes of Mount Kenya, is the immemorial enclave of the Ameru nation. Inhabited mainly by the sub-tribes of Imenti, Tigania, Igembe, and Tharaka, Meru County has one of the best developed touring circuits.

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The topography of Meru County has a critical influence on its climate. Temperatures range from a low of 8 Degrees to a high of 32 Degrees Celsius during the cold and hot seasons respectively. 

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