Rutundu Log Cabins

Secluded Getaways in Meru

Lake Rutundu: Mount Kenya National Park

In the 1940’s fishing in Kenya bloomed exponentially and was such a resounding success that it was immediately followed by the development of fishing lodges in both parks in Central Kenya, Mount Kenya and Aberdare National Parks, as well as at the lovely lakes lying in the Rift Valley like Lakes Turkana, Baringo and Naivasha. This continued into the 1960’s when mounting organizational leaps grew the sport along the Coast of Kenya. Originally known as Rutundu Fishing Lodges a hop north of Lake Rutundu, these two log cabins enjoy superb vistas that can only be Africa.

Rutundu Log Cabins, high in the moorlands of Mount Kenya enjoy the best of the uplands, crispiness and coolness of bright days, the rolling mists and drizzle on others. These are perfect for the fisherman, romantics at heart and an off-the-grid family hidey-hole. Rustic but comfortable with open log fires which keep them snug and warm during the cold mountain nights, the main cabin has a sitting and dining room, verandah, kitchen and a large bedroom with a double bed, bunk bed and en-suite bathroom. The smaller cabin is detached from the main building and has a spacious cozy en-suite bedroom with a double bed and two single beds.

Rutundu sleeps four people comfortably but larger groups can be accommodated if guests are willing to share rooms. The cabins have been built along the lines of an Alaskan log cabin – with interlocking joints that fit snugly together, creating a tighter and more secure structure – using large cedar logs collected in the forests around the mountain. Moss fills the cracks between the logs. Warm and fortified, guests to Rutundu Log Cabins need to be self-reliant and self-catering. There is a gas oven and hob and an outdoor fridge, but no freezer. The tap water at Rutundu comes from a spring and is safe for drinking. Beddings, towels, crockery, cutlery and utensils are all provided. There’s no electricity, all lighting is from solar lamps.

Known for their charming, off-the-grid appeal, the cabins offer an unforgettable escape into nature, surrounded by rugged alpine landscapes, pristine wilderness, and vast unsullied backyard, Rutundu Log Cabins are a much vaunted destination. According to several informed sources, the potential future King and Queen of England got engaged on the 20th of October, 2010 at Rutundu Log Cabins. They came to relax and to fish. The couple drove up from Lewa Downs, the wildlife reserve where they have holidayed in the past and where Prince William spent part of his gap year before attending the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

Lake Rutundu is a volcanic crater lake set at 3078 ms on the northeastern flank of Mount Kenya, known for its crystal-clear waters, serene alpine environment, and excellent trout fishing opportunities. It is relatively small in size (0.4 km2), with a maximum depth of 11 ms. It is situated about 90 ms above tree line in vegetation profile dominated by woodland, sub-alpine shrubs and grasses. It was produced by a single event eruption and exhibits no hot springs or furmarolic activity. Lake Rutundu was first recorded and cited by Coetzee and Van Zinderen Bakker in 1967.


Around Kenya, there is a collection of rare experiences, in middle-budget secluded hideaways, offering guests intimate encounters with parts of Kenya that rarely get under the limelight. Each getaway, secluded and away from civilization, is rooted in its local community and dedicated to showcasing their cultures.


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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What’s The Air Like In Meru?

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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