Meru National Park is a hidden gem in Kenya, offering pristine wilderness, diverse landscapes, and incredible wildlife encounters. Located in eastern Kenya, about 350 km from Nairobi, this park is famous for its Big Five safaris, lush rivers, and being the setting of "Born Free," the story of Elsa the Lioness.
📍 Location: Meru County, Kenya (6-hour drive from Nairobi)
Wildlife: Lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, buffalos, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles & over 400 bird species
Unique Features: 13 rivers, Doum palm forests, swampy grasslands & stunning landscapes
Best Time to Visit: June – September & January – March
✔️ Less Crowded Than Masai Mara & Amboseli – A true off-the-beaten-path safari
✔️ Big Five Safari Destination – Excellent game viewing all year round
✔️ Born Free Legacy – Home of Elsa the Lioness & conservation history
✔️ Stunning Landscapes – Rivers, waterfalls & dramatic scenery
✔️ Perfect for Nature Lovers – Rich biodiversity & peaceful atmosphere
Incredible Wildlife Safaris
Home to the Big Five (Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Rhinos & Buffalos)
Rare species like Grevy’s zebra, lesser kudu & gerenuk
Thriving populations of cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles & antelopes
The Rugged Beauty of Meru
13 Permanent Rivers – Lifelines for wildlife and lush vegetation
Adamson’s Falls & Murera Rapids – Scenic waterfalls in the heart of the park
Swampy Grasslands & Doum Palm Forests – A paradise for nature lovers
Rhino Sanctuary
A 40km² fenced sanctuary protecting over 60 black and white rhinos
One of the best places in Kenya to see rhinos in the wild
Elsa’s Story – Born Free
The park was the home of Joy & George Adamson, who raised Elsa the Lioness
Visit Elsa’s Grave & Adamson’s Camp to learn about their conservation legacy
🛫 By Air
Daily flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Kinna or Elsa’s Kopje Airstrips
Flight time: 1 hour
🚗 By Road
350 km from Nairobi (6-hour drive) via Nanyuki or Embu
4WD vehicle required due to rough roads
Luxury Lodges & Camps
Elsa’s Kopje by Elewana – Iconic lodge with stunning views & top-tier service
Rhino River Camp – A unique eco-camp along the Kindani River
Leopard Rock Lodge – Elegant safari lodge with private game drives
Mid-Range & Budget Options
Ikweta Safari Camp – Affordable tented camp with great wildlife access
Murera Springs Eco Lodge – Budget-friendly with comfortable cottages
June – September & January – March: Best for wildlife safaris & comfortable weather
April – May & November – December: Green season with fewer crowds & lush landscapes
Whether you are on a trip at this time or choose to travel with us in the future, with our flexible travel policy, thorough guidance, local expertise, and unwavering support, leave your worries behind – you will always be in safe hands. We care so that you can travel carefree.
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Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris is a premier tour operator in Kenya, specializing in customized safari experiences, luxury getaways, and affordable holiday packages.
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