"Born Free - The Complete Wilderness of Elsa's Legacy"
Meru National Park Tourism
Meru National Park, near Mount Kenya, is a crucial wildlife sanctuary known for the Big Five animals. It's famous for protecting rhinos dotted with doum palms, acacia trees, and the scenic presence of the Tana River winding through its terrain. The Elsa's Kopje, named after Elsa the lioness from Joy Adamson's book "Born Free," is a notable attraction within the park, offering panoramic views and a luxurious lodge experience.
Established in 1966, Meru National Park was once the home of conservationists Joy and George Adamson, who raised the famous lioness Elsa. The park is home to various wildlife, including endangered Grevy's zebras, black rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs, waterbuck, eland, bush pigs, and hippos. It also boasts over 427 bird species. The park has been crucial in protecting and restoring animal populations, especially after challenges like poaching. Visitors can also learn about the cultural heritage of the indigenous Borana & Meru people and their traditions.
Entrance Fees for Meru National Park
Park Entry Fee Per Person:Citizen: Adult – KSH 300, Child – KSH 215
Resident: Adult – KSH 300, Child – KSH 215
Non-Resident: Adult – USD 52, Child – USD 35
Vehicle Fee Per Day:
Less than 6 seats - KSH 300
6 to 12 seats - KSH 1030
13 to 24 seats - KSH 2585
25 to 44 seats - KSH 4050
45 seats and above - KSH 5000
Special Activity Charges:
Night Game Drive (per person per trip) – KSH 2155
Guided Tours (per guide up to 4 hours & over 4 hours) – KSH 1720 / KSH 3015
Horse Riding (without rider) – KSH 2585
Private horses (per day) – KSH 1030
Walking Safaris (per person per day) – KSH 1500
Cycling (per day) – KSH 215
Entrance Gates to Meru National Park
Meru National Park has three main entrance gates that provide access to the park - - Murera Gate: The Murera Gate is located in the eastern part of Meru National Park. It is the main entrance gate for visitors coming from Nairobi or the Mount Kenya region. The gate is closest to the town of Meru, which is approximately 20 kilometres away.
- Ura Gate: The Ura Gate is situated in the northern part of Meru National Park. It is the closest entrance gate to the town of Meru, approximately 10 kilometres away. The Ura Gate offers convenient access to visitors travelling from the Meru area.
- Kina Gate: The Kina Gate is located in the western section of Meru National Park, close to the Kina Rock area. It provides access to visitors coming from areas such as Nanyuki or Nyeri. The Kina Gate is approximately 50 kilometres from the town of Meru.
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Things to do in Meru National Park
1. Game Drives Safari
Game drives are conducted during morning and afternoon sessions, lasting around 2-3 hours each. These drives provide an opportunity to spot iconic wildlife such as lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards (Read More), and rhinoceros, among others. The best time for game drives is early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active.
2. Elsa's Grave
Elsa the lioness was raised by conservationists George and Joy Adamson in Meru National Park. Her story, popularized in the book "Born Free" and the film of the same name, highlighted the importance o (Read More)f wildlife conservation. Visitors can learn about her legacy and the ongoing efforts to protect lions and other wildlife in the park. Elsa's burial site near the Adamsons' former campsite is a notable attraction in the park.
3. Adamson's Falls
Adamson's Falls, also known as Elsa's Kopje Waterfall, is a picturesque waterfall named after George Adamson, a renowned conservationist. Visitors can hike to the waterfall, capture memorable photogra (Read More)phs, and enjoy a peaceful picnic in the tranquil surroundings. Mornings are generally the best time to visit for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting conditions.
4. Tana River
The Tana River is a vital part of Meru National Park's ecosystem, providing water for wildlife like elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Its banks are home to diverse birdlife and vegetation. Visitors c (Read More)an take boat rides along the river for scenic views and enjoy fishing.
5. Hippo Pools
The Hippo Pools along the Tana River offer a chance to observe hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy picnics by the river while observing these fascinating creatures. Dayt (Read More)ime visits are recommended for better visibility and for observing hippo activity.
6. Rojewero Viewpoint
Rojewero Viewpoint, located in the western part of the park, provides breathtaking panoramic views of Meru National Park and Mount Kenya. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to w (Read More)itness the sunrise or sunset views. Visitors can engage in photography, enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst the scenic beauty, and indulge in birdwatching to spot various bird species in the area.
7. Murera Springs Eco-system
Murera Springs is a pristine ecosystem within the park known for its abundant wildlife and natural springs. It offers excellent opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, birdwatching to identify diff (Read More)erent bird species, and guided nature walks. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when wildlife activity is high.
8. Bwatherongi and Kinna Hills
Bwatherongi and Kinna Hills are scenic hills within the park that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can embark on guided hikes or nature walks to explore these hills. It is (Read More) recommended to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day.
9. Kora Rock
Kora Rock is a notable granite outcrop that served as a campsite for George Adamson and his lions. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the park and the Tana River, making it an ideal (Read More)spot for photography. It is recommended to visit in the early morning or late afternoon for pleasant temperatures and better visibility.
10. Walking Safaris
For those seeking a closer connection with nature, walking safaris are available. Led by experienced guides, these safaris allow visitors to explore the park on foot, delving into the smaller details (Read More)of the environment. Walking safaris usually last a few hours.
Must Know Before You Travel to Meru National Park
- Park Gate Hours: All the park gates are open throughout the year and are typically open from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM.
- "Born Free": The park was featured in Joy Adamson's book "Born Free" (1960), which highlights her research on local lions and cheetahs. Elsa, the famous lioness from the book, is buried in the park near her favourite stream.
- Distance from Nairobi: Meru National Park is conveniently located just 300 km from Nairobi, making it easily accessible for a quick getaway.
- Less Explored: The park is most popular for being the least explored national park in Kenya though it is one of the best for game viewing. So, you can expect less crowd here when compared to the other popular parks.
- Swimming Pool: Meru National Park is the only park in Kenya with a public swimming pool. So, you can carry your swimwear.
- Pre-Booking: It is recommended to pre-book certain activities like guided safaris or accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
- Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed in Meru National Park.
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Wildlife in the Meru National Park
Meru National Park boasts a remarkable variety of wildlife, including the "Big Five" - lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinoceros. In addition to these iconic species, visitors can also spot Grevy's zebra, eland, bush pig, waterbuck, cheetah, reticulated giraffe, hippopotamus, bohor reedbuck, hartebeest, python, puff udder, and cobra. It is home to more than 427 recorded species of birds such as the African fish eagle, ostriches, vultures, herons, and the rare Pel's fishing owl. The park is renowned for its successful rhino conservation efforts, protecting them from poaching and ensuring their long-term survival.
Travel Tips for Meru National Park
- Safety at Meru Campground: When camping at Meru National Park, it's safer to rent a Boma due to the presence of black mambas, Africa's deadliest snakes, which can be attracted to the campground's toilets because of water catches along the walls.
- Self-Driving: If possible, it is much cheaper for guests to self-drive and stay in the campervan than booking separate accommodation.
- Carry Cash: It is advisable to carry a small amount of Kenyan currency, the Kenya Shilling (KES), for purchasing groceries and other smaller items where credit cards may not be accepted.
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How to Reach Meru National Park
How to Reach Overview
Situated approximately 350 kilometres from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, the park is easily accessible by road or air. The journey from Nairobi to Meru National Park takes around 5-6 hours by road, but for a quicker option, you can opt the domestic flights. Though less preferred, there are rail options as well as public transport available too.
How to reach Meru National Park by flight
The nearest airstrips are Mulika Lodge Airstrip which is 16 metres and Elsa’s Kopje’s Airstrip which is 17.5 kilometres from the park. Domestic flights are available from Nairobi's Wilson Airport to Meru. The flight duration is around 45 minutes and a round trip would cost around $300 to $450. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or arrange for a transfer to reach the park.
How to reach Meru National Park by road
Travelling to Meru National Park by road is a popular option. From Nairobi, the journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, covering a distance of about 350 kilometres. The most common route is via the A2 highway, passing through towns such as Thika, Embu, and Makutano.
How to reach Meru National Park by train
Currently, there is no direct railway connection to Meru National Park. The nearest railway station is in Nanyuki, which is approximately 316 kilometres away. From Nanyuki, visitors can hire a taxi or use other local transport options to reach the park.
How to reach Meru National Park by bus
Public buses and minivans, known as matatus, operate regular services between Nairobi and Meru. The cost of a bus ticket ranges from 500 to 800 Kenyan Shillings (KES), depending on the class of travel.
Most frequently searched routes to Meru National Park
| Route Name | Distance | Time | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nairobi to Meru National Park | 225.9 km | 4 hr 14 min | View Details |
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