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Meru National Park

A Hidden Gem of Wildlife, Rivers, and Scenic Landscapes

Meru National Park

All About Meru National Park

Meru National Park, located in central Kenya, is one of the country’s most unspoiled and diverse wildlife conservation areas. Spanning over 870 square kilometers, the park boasts a mix of open grasslands, riverine forests, swamps, and rolling hills, making it a haven for a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park is famous for its association with conservationist George Adamson and the lioness Elsa, made famous by the book and movie Born Free.

It is home to the Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino), as well as cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 400 bird species. The park’s 13 rivers, including the Tana River, provide essential water sources for wildlife, ensuring remarkable game-viewing opportunities.

Unlike more crowded parks like the Maasai Mara and Amboseli, Meru National Park remains a hidden gem, offering an exclusive and tranquil safari experience. Visitors can enjoy guided game drives, nature walks, and birdwatching while taking in the park’s breathtaking landscapes. With fewer tourists, Meru offers a sense of true wilderness, making it a perfect destination for adventurers seeking an authentic African safari.

The best time to Visit Meru National Park

When is the Best Time to Visit Meru National Park?

Meru National Park can be visited year-round, but wildlife viewing conditions vary depending on the seasons.

Dry Season

June to October. This is the best time for game viewing as animals gather around water sources, and vegetation is less dense, making wildlife easier to spot. The roads are also more accessible, making for smoother game drives.

Wet Season

November to May. The park becomes lush and green, making it a stunning landscape for photography and birdwatching. However, heavy rains, especially from March to May, can make some roads challenging to navigate.

Peak Season

December to February. This is a popular time for visitors due to warm weather and abundant wildlife. The clear skies and vibrant scenery make it ideal for safaris and photography.

Meru National Park Weather and Climate

Weather and Climate in Meru National Park

Month Temperature (°C) Rainfall (mm) Season
January – February 28°C (Day) / 15°C (Night) Low Dry/Peak Season
March – May 26°C (Day) / 16°C (Night) High Wet Season (Long Rains)
June – October 27°C (Day) / 14°C (Night) Low Dry Season
November – December 26°C (Day) / 15°C (Night) Moderate Wet Season (Short Rains)

How to Get to Meru National Park

Ways to Travel to Meru National Park

By Road: Meru National Park is approximately 350 km from Nairobi and can be accessed via a 5 to 6-hour drive. The best route is through Nyeri – Nanyuki – Meru or the Embu–Meru highway, with the main entry gate being Murera Gate. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season.

By Air: Daily scheduled flights operate from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Kinna Airstrip or Elsa’s Kopje Airstrip inside the park. Charter flights are also available, offering a quicker and more scenic journey.

Google Map of Meru National Park

Meru National Park Map Showing its location

The below Meru National Park Map shows the exact location. Expand it to see more details, surrounds, and directions of where you could be coming from, to help you access it easier and better.

Meru National Park Fees Entrance

Park Fee Entrance to Meru National Park

Category Citizen (Ksh) Resident (Ksh) Non-Resident (USD)
Adults 300 1,200 52
Children/Students 215 600 35

Fees may change, so visitors should confirm with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

Park fees for Meru National Park are paid through the eCitizen portal. Here’s the step-by-step process:

  1. Visit kws.ecitizen.go.ke to access the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) payment portal.
  2. Log in using your ID number and password. If you don’t have an account, create one.
  3. Click on the Services tab and select Kenya Wildlife Service.
  4. Choose Meru National Park and enter the number of adults and children in your group.
  5. Select your preferred payment method – options include MPESA, credit/debit card, or bank transfer.
  6. If using MPESA, enter the special application number as your account number.
  7. Complete the transaction, and you will receive a confirmation message.
  8. Show the payment confirmation at the park entrance for verification.

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