Meru National Park is a national park located in the Eastern part of Kenya, in the Meru County. The park covers an area of about 870 square kilometers and is situated about 350 km from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. The park is named after the Meru people, who are the local inhabitants of the area.
The park is also known for its scenic landscapes,. These include rivers, waterfalls, and forests. One of the main attractions in the park is the Tana River, which flows through the park .The river offers visitors the opportunity to engage in activities such as fishing and white-water rafting.
Wild life
Meru National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and more. The park also boasts over 400 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.
Attractions
Attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the main attractions in the park:
- Wildlife: Meru National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and more. The park is also home to over 400 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.
- Rivers and waterfalls: The park is traversed by several rivers, including the Tana River, which offers visitors the opportunity to engage in activities such as fishing and white-water rafting. The park also boasts several waterfalls, including the spectacular Elsa’s Kopje waterfall.
- Scenic landscapes: Meru National Park has a variety of scenic landscapes, including savannah grasslands, riverine forests, and rocky outcrops.
- Cultural experiences: Visitors to the park can also enjoy cultural visits to the nearby villages, where they can learn about the customs and traditions of the local Meru people.
- Game drives: Game drives are a popular activity in the park, offering visitors the opportunity to see wildlife up close and in their natural habitat.
- Guided walks: Guided walks are another way to explore the park and its wildlife, with experienced guides leading visitors on walks through the park’s forests and savannahs.
- Accommodation options: Meru National Park offers a range of accommodation options, including camping sites, lodges, and luxury tented camps, providing visitors with a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploring the park.
Accommodation near Meru National Park
Here are some of the accommodation options available:
- Elsa’s Kopje: This is a luxury safari lodge located on Mughwango Hill, offering stunning views of the park. The lodge has 9 cottages, a swimming pool, and a spa. Rates start at around $450 per person per night.
- Rhino River Camp: This is a tented camp located on the banks of the Kindani River. The camp has 7 tents and offers game drives, guided walks, and cultural visits. Rates start at around $350 per person per night.
- Ikweta Safari Camp: This is a mid-range tented camp located on the border of the park. The camp has 8 tents, a swimming pool, and offers game drives and guided walks. Rates start at around $180 per person per night.
- Leopard Rock Lodge: This is a luxury lodge located on the slopes of Mughwango Hill. The lodge has 15 rooms, a swimming pool, and offers game drives, guided walks, and cultural visits. Rates start at around $350 per person per night.
- Murera Springs Eco Lodge: This is a budget lodge located just outside the park. The lodge has 8 rooms, a swimming pool, and offers game drives and guided walks. Rates start at around $50 per person per night.
Park Charges
In terms of park charges,
The fees for non-residents are $52 per adult per day and $26 per child per day. For residents, the fees are KSH 1030 per adult per day and KSH 515 per child per day.
These fees cover park entry, game drives, and guided walks. Fishing and white-water rafting activities are charged separately.
Best Time to Visit Meru National Park
The long, cool, and dry season from July to October is generally considered the best time to visit Meru National Park. With little or no new rainfall, seasonal waterholes are evaporating and vegetation is sparse.
How to get there
Here are some of the ways to get to the park:
By road: The most common way to get to Meru National Park is by road. There are several options for driving to the park, including private cars, taxis, or rental cars. The journey from Nairobi takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
By air: There are several airstrips near the park, including the Mulika, Maua, and Meru airstrips. Also You can take a scheduled flight from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to one of these airstrips, and then take a taxi or shuttle to the park.
By train: The nearest railway station to Meru National Park is in Nanyuki, about 120 kilometers away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to the park.
