Meru National Park – A Hidden Gem in Kenya

Natural Beauty and Scenery

Meru National Park is famous for its fauna and stunning landscapes. With swamps, palm-lined rivers, mountains, and woodlands, it was the setting for Joy Adamson’s book Born Free, later made into a film. From its rocky outcrops, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped Mount Kenya.

Wildlife and Game Viewing

The park is home to large prides of lions, herds of buffalo, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Visitors can also spot leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, hartebeests, gazelles, and rare antelope such as the Lesser Kudu and shy dik-dik. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy sightings of over 300 species, including ostriches, bee-eaters, and Pel’s Fishing Owl.

History and Conservation

Established in 1968, the park covers 870 km² and incorporates Bisanadi, Kora, Rahole, and Mwingi National Reserves. In the 1980s, elephants suffered due to poaching, but conservation efforts by the Kenya Wildlife Service have restored populations.

A Unique Safari Experience

Meru is less crowded than other parks, making it perfect for an authentic safari. For group travel or team retreats, explore our tailored conference safari packages.

is excellent and includes four of the “Big Five” -elephants, lions, leopards and buffalo – as well as cheetahs, antelope, hippos and crocodiles. The roads are well graded and Meru National Park is quieter than some of the other parks.

Over 300 species of birds have been recorded recorded within the park, including the Peter’s Finfoot, which inhabits the Murera and Ura Rivers, the Pel’s Fishing Owl, kingfishers, rollers, bee-eaters, starlings and numerous weavers. Larger birds include the secretary bird, ostriches and hornbills. Take a spotter’s guide so that you can identify the many species you will see.