Meru National Park
Meru National Park is located east of Meru town, about 350 km from Nairobi. This park is one of the best kept secrets in the country, offering a stunning variety of landscapes and animals. From the lush forests and rivers of the west, to the arid plains and hills of the east, you can explore the park by game drives, walking safaris, or boat trips. Meru is home to the Big Five, as well as rare species like the Grevy’s zebra, the gerenuk, and the lesser kudu. You can also visit the grave of Elsa the lioness, the star of the famous book and film Born Free, and learn about the conservation efforts of George and Joy Adamson.
The park covers an area of 870 km2 and has a diverse climate and vegetation. The rainfall ranges from 305 mm in the east to 762 mm in the west, resulting in tall grass and lush swamps. The park has a rich history and culture, as it was once the home of the Meru people and their legendary leader Mau Mau
There are many activities to enjoy in Meru National Park, depending on your preferences and budget. You can go for game drives in open vehicles or 4x4s, and spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and more. You can also go for walking safaris with armed guides and rangers, and get closer to nature and wildlife. You can also take a boat trip on the Tana River or one of its tributaries, and see hippos, crocodiles, birds, and fish. You can also visit some of the attractions in the park, such as Adamson’s Falls, Bwatherongi Bandas, Leopard Rock, Mughwango Hill, Rhino Sanctuary, and Elsa’s Grave.
If you are planning to visit Meru National Park, you should know some of the basic information to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. The best time to visit is from June to September and from December to March, when the weather is dry and sunny. The park is accessible by road or air. You can drive from Nairobi via Thika and Embu towns, or take a flight from Wilson Airport or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to one of the airstrips in the park. There are various accommodation options in and around the park, ranging from luxury lodges and tented camps to budget bandas and campsites. You can book your accommodation online or through a travel agent. You should also check the park entry fees and regulations before you go. You can pay by cash or card at the gate or online through M-Pesa or credit card.
Meru National Park is a gem that awaits you in Kenya. It is a place where you can experience nature at its best, see amazing wildlife, learn about history and culture, and have fun. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover one of Kenya’s most beautiful parks.