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Meru National Park

Meru National Park is found in Maua, East of Meru County, on the leeward side of Mount Kenya. The park is mainly covered by woodland and Savannah. It is home to the famously adopted Elsa the Lioness.

  • Language: Swahili/English
  • Best Season: All Year Round

Meru National Park is known for its riverine acacia forests along the rivers and also the surrounding bushland. Still, the savannah woodland in the park gives it its aesthetic appeal.

Meru National Park Distance from Nairobi

From Nairobi, it is 388 kilometers to Meru National Park via the A2 road, then diverting via C91. After arriving at Meru town, there are approximately 115 more kilometers to cover using the C91 route headed towards Maua to get to the park.

There is the Kina Airstrip that facilitates flights by tourists to the park from Wilson Airport. The flight takes around 45 minutes. The airstrip operates daily, and tickets can be booked from local airlines.

Meru National Park Distance from Meru Town

The park is located around 115 kilometers along the C91 road from Meru town. The drive takes about 1.5 hours toward Maua town.

Meru National Park Weather

Meru National Park has an average temperature of 25°C, making it relatively hot. The temperature typically ranges between 18°C and 32°C.

The eastern side of the park lies on the leeward side of Mount Kenya, while the western side is on the windward side. Therefore, the western side receives more rainfall (635–762 mm), while the eastern side receives less (305–356 mm).

The dry months are usually February, March, and from June through November, with intermittent rains in between.

Meru National Park Location

The park spans nearly 870 square kilometers within Meru County and lies at an altitude of 304 m to 1,036 m above sea level.

The coordinates of the park are 0°5′37″N 38°12′29″E. There are two main entry points: Murera Gate and Ura Gate. Murera Gate serves visitors from Isiolo and Nanyuki, while Ura Gate is ideal for travelers from Nairobi or Embu.

Daily flights also land at Kina Airstrip, located within the park.

Meru National Park Hotels

Accommodation is available both inside and outside the park. Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) facilities include Kinna Cottages, Meru Guest House, and Murera Cottages.

Privately owned options include Leopard Rock Lodge and Elsa’s Kopje.

Best Time to Visit Meru National Park

It is advisable to visit during the dry season for the best game viewing. Spotting animals during the rainy season can be more challenging due to thick vegetation and less predictable wildlife movements.

Meru National Park Safari

Safari packages typically include transport from Nairobi to the park, accommodation, park entry fees, guide services, and meals.

You can also personalize your safari to focus on your preferred activities or tailor it to your group’s interests.

Meru National Park Animals

Meru National Park is home to the Big Five: lions, rhinos, leopards, cape buffalo, and African elephants. Other wildlife includes giraffes, zebras, hippos, impalas, and gazelles.

Meru National Park Birds

The park hosts over 400 bird species, including vultures, ostriches, and woodpeckers. This rich variety makes it a haven for bird enthusiasts.

Meru National Park Attractions
  • Big Five Game Viewing – The park is home to all of the Big Five animals.
  • Rhino Sanctuary – A dedicated area within the park for rhino conservation.
  • Scenic Viewing – Stunning landscapes across savannah, riverine forest, and bushland.
  • Joy and George Adamson’s Home – A historical site within the park.

Tours & Experiences

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