Meru National Park which is situated approximately 350 Kilometers from Nairobi. The park and Kora sister parks feature luxuriant jungle, coursing rivers, verdant swamp, khaki grasslands and gaunt termite cathedrals.
The Park is where conservationist George and Joy Adamson raised Elsa the Lioness of Born Free in film Born Free. A 1966 Technicolor British drama starring Virginia McKenna and Bill Travers as Joy and George Adamson. A real-life couple who raised Elsa, an orphaned lion cub, to adulthood
Highlights of this safari include the home of Joy and George Adamson, Adamson’s falls, the grave of Elsa the lioness. Game Viewing, bird watching and stunning views of Mt Kenya, fishing among other activities.
Meru National Park, located in Kenya’s Eastern Province, is a lesser-known gem compared to some of Kenya’s more famous parks, but it offers a unique and rich safari experience. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from Meru National Park:
1. Wildlife
- Big Five: While it is not as renowned for the Big Five as other parks, Meru National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and buffaloes. Rhinos are also present but less frequently seen.
- Other Species: The park is rich in other wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and a range of antelope species. Birdwatchers can spot over 300 species of birds.
2. Scenery and Landscapes
- Diverse Terrain: The park features diverse landscapes, from lush, verdant riverine forests and swamps to arid, open savannahs. The scenery is a striking contrast to the more typical Kenyan safari landscapes.
- Mountains and Hills: The park’s varied topography includes the stunning Nyambene Hills and the scenic views from the park’s elevated areas.
3. Activities
- Game Drives: The primary activity, offering the chance to see a range of wildlife in their natural habitats.
- Walking Safaris: Some lodges and camps offer walking safaris, providing a different perspective on the park’s flora and smaller wildlife.
- Bird Watching: The park is a great destination for bird enthusiasts, with opportunities to see a variety of species in different habitats.
4. Accommodation
- Luxury Lodges: There are a few luxury lodges and tented camps within and around the park, such as the Elsa’s Kopje Lodge, known for its stunning views and luxury accommodations.
- Budget Options: There are also more budget-friendly options, including self-catering campsites and basic lodges.
5. Conservation and History
- Elsa the Lioness: The park is famous for Elsa the Lioness, whose story was popularized by the book and film “Born Free.” The Meru National Park played a crucial role in Elsa’s reintroduction into the wild.
- Conservation Efforts: The park focuses on protecting its diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
6. Getting There
- By Air: The park is accessed via flights from Nairobi to Meru’s airstrip or other nearby airstrips.
- By Road: It is also reachable by road, approximately 350 kilometers from Nairobi, with a drive time of around 5-6 hours, depending on the route and road conditions.
7. Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season: The best time to visit is during the dry seasons (from June to October and January to March) when wildlife is easier to spot due to the reduced vegetation and animals congregating around water sources.
Meru National Park offers a unique safari experience with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore a less-visited part of Kenya’s rich natural heritage.
