Meru National Park – Map, Travel Guide, Wildlife and Activities

The Meru National Park is one of the biggest gazetted animal sanctuaries in Kenya. Established in 1966, the park boasts of a a whopping 870 square kilometers. With a variety of climates, the park is home to the big five and many other wild animals.

It has rich vegetation from tall grass to swamps from an abundance of rainfall from 635-762 mm in the west to 305-356 mm in the west.

The Meru National Park is undoubtedly one of the biggest animal sanctuaries in Kenya, home to hippos, rhinos, leopards, lions, zebras, and much more. With over 400 species of birds in its six different eco-systems, it’s a paradise for wildlife lovers!

Although it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Eastern Africa, the park was once plagued by poaching but has now been restored to its former glory with the help of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS).

Thanks to this partnership, the Meru National Park has been steadily improving. The Kenya Wildlife Services and IFAW have been working together to bring a stop to the poaching problems, restoring its glory as a thriving  and secure wildlife sanctuary.

Meru National Park – Wildlife

Here you will also find several animals considered endangered species such as the gray-crowned crane and the African wild dog, as well as common species of zebra and leopard. It’s one of the many Kenyan parks that offers tours that will let you get close to the animals — but Meru National Park is one of the most popular because of its diverse wildlife.

A trip to Kenya would be incomplete without a safari to the Meru National Park, where you can see rhinos wandering around the landscape peacefully! There are also lions that roam the park, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone visiting. For those visiting the region who want to learn more about Kenya’s wildlife, there are plenty of safari and hiking companies and many local and international tour operators.

At the Meru National Park, you will spot several other animals such as the leopard, the cheetah, the elephant, the lion, both Grevy’s and plains zebra, the hartebeest, the hippo, the reticulated giraffe, and sometimes herds of buffalo. The big cats can be a bit difficult to spot because of tall grass and thick bushland.

Plenty of water to explore at this park. It has 13 rivers and several streams that feed the Tana River. Some of the birds you will find are Pel’s Fishing Owls, which can be heard at night hunting by the river, and Peter’s Finfoots.

Day after day, the sun shines down from the sky onto the water’s edge. The water shines back as it goes from still to moving. There are many birds that call this spot home. Keep your eyes peeled for Palm-Nut Vultures. These birds are a rare rarity, but they make a home here, too. They basically eat carrion and palm nuts. Being a secretive duck-like bird, these creatures prefer to find a home in the middle of a small body of water. In your quest to spot one, you should always scan for the Palm-Nut Vulture. This scavenger lives on a diet composed of carrion and, unsurprisingly, palm nuts.

Meru National Park Hotels

While at the Meru National Park, you can opt for in park accommodation or choose from several camps and hotel facilities within the park.

1. Elsa’s Kopje 

Meru National Park is home to the legendary lioness, Elsa. The real-life events that inspired the award-winning film Born Free took place within this park — and at her grave, visitors can reflect on how George and Joy Adamson shaped wildlife conservation in Kenya and around the world.

Elsa’s Kopje was designed and built by Stefano Cheli, and opened in 1999 by Dr. Richard Leakey and Virgina McKenna, the star of the 1960’s film “Born Free”, and then founder of the “Born Free” foundation. It was established not only as a luxurious lodge – with a six-meter high thatched roof, soaring ceilings, hand carved furniture, and antique décor – but also as a conservation project to save the surrounding wildlife from poachers.

One of the most stunning lodges, Elsa’s Kopje Lodge is built around a granite hill overlooking a valley. Each room has been individually decorated to take advantage of the stunning views and natural curves, rocks, and trees on the hillside. It’s a suite fit for a queen — named after the late wife of owner Pieter Pretorius, who envisioned a place where guests could experience luxury and privacy during their stay.

Elsa’s Kopje is so well-designed and environmentally conscious that it’s nearly invisible — while also keeping the surrounding wildlife safe and the lodge’s power usage to a minimum. It has been described as one of the most unique boutique hotels in the world.

2. Rhino River Camp

The Rhino River Camp is a luxurious tented safari camp on the banks of the Kindani River. There are seven tents, all built out of sumptuous caramel canvas and sustainably grown wood that rests directly above the river. Rhino River Camp has everything you need for the bush experience. With a private swimming pool, well-stocked bar and restaurant area, nature trails on private property, and an atmosphere that is relaxing without being intrusive, you’ll think of it as your perfect hideout. A camp that’s both modern and homely.

3. Ikweta Safari Camp

iKweta Safari Camp offers the finest luxury accommodations in Meru National Park, one of Kenya’s most magnificent national parks. Enjoy your stay at our premier safari camp as you explore the park’s diverse landscape, pristine wildlife, and abundant birdlife. Affordable iKweta Safari Camp provides an intimate safari experience, with memorable encounters that are exclusive to small groups or solo travelers.

Located just outside the Meru National Park, this camp is nestled in a beautiful setting that allows guests to explore the park’s natural wonders while enjoying all the comforts of a luxury camp. When you stay at iKweta, you’ll be getting 5-star service in the lap of nature. They offer luxury safari tents with ensuite bathrooms for your relaxation, round-the-clock game drives, and excellent meals prepared by our world-class chefs.

Meru National Park – Travel Guide

How to Get to the Meru National Park. It’s 322 kilometers from Nairobi and accessible by road via Nyeri – Nanyuki-Meru or Embu all weather road (120km to Ura Gate). From Maua town to Murera Gate, it’s 35 kilometers.