ABOUT MERU NATIONAL PARK
Meru National Park, located in the breath-taking landscape of Kenya, was officially established in 1966 and subsequently gained international acclaim as the picturesque setting for Joy Adamson’s renowned book “Born Free,” which tells the captivating story of Elsa the lioness. Initially, during its formative years, the park flourished as a favoured safari destination, attracting numerous visitors who sought to experience its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty.
However, by the 1980s, Meru National Park faced significant challenges that led to a drastic decline in its fortunes. The rampant poaching that plagued this region resulted in a catastrophic reduction of wildlife populations, prompting concern among conservationists and ecologists alike. In response to this alarming situation, a concerted effort began between 2000 and 2005 to restore Meru National Park from the brink of ruin back to a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. This ambitious restoration initiative was spearheaded by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), with invaluable support from organizations such as the Agence Française de Dévelopement (AFD) and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). Their collaborative efforts not only addressed the pressing issue of poaching but also introduced innovative strategies that revitalized both wildlife numbers and tourism prospects. One key aspect of this restoration project was the establishment of a dedicated rhino sanctuary within the park’s boundaries. This sanctuary provided a safe haven for these magnificent creatures while efforts were made to bolster their population through breeding programs and vigilant protection measures. Additionally, significant improvements were made to infrastructure within Meru National Park; roads were upgraded to facilitate better access for tourists and rangers alike, ensuring that visitors could navigate its diverse landscapes with ease. Moreover, an essential component of this revitalization involved assembling a dedicated ranger force tasked with safeguarding both wildlife and park resources. These rangers underwent specialized training to effectively combat poaching activities while promoting sustainable tourism practices within Meru National Park. Thanks to these multifaceted restoration efforts, what once seemed like an insurmountable challenge has transformed Meru into one of Eastern Africa’s most promising tourist destinations—a testament to successful conservation practices combined with unwavering commitment from local authorities and international partners.
Weather in Meru National Park
Meru National Park is characterized by a predominantly hot and arid climate, which significantly influences the park’s unique ecosystem and biodiversity. Throughout the year, temperatures within this region remain relatively uniform, exhibiting minimal variation between seasons. During the daytime, one can expect temperatures to hover around a warm 29°C (approximately 84°F), creating an environment that supports a diverse array of flora and fauna adapted to these conditions. As dusk approaches, the temperatures gracefully decline to about 19°C (around 66°F), providing a cooler respite from the heat of the day. The climatic conditions in Meru National Park are further defined by a distinct wet season that extends from November to May. This period is marked by two notable phases of rainfall: first, there are the short rains that peak in November, delivering brief yet intense showers that rejuvenate the landscape and provide essential moisture for plant life. Following this initial phase is the long rains season, which reaches its zenith in April. These prolonged rains are crucial as they not only replenish water sources but also support the growth of vegetation across various habitats within the park. Together, these climatic elements play an essential role in shaping both the environmental dynamics and wildlife patterns observed in Meru National Park.
Getting to Meru National park
Traveling to Meru National Park from Nairobi is a journey of approximately 348 kilometres and can be undertaken via well-maintained roadways. Two primary routes are available for this trip: the Nyeri-Nanyuki-Meru route and the alternative Embu all-weather road, both of which provide accessible paths to the park. Each route offers its own unique scenic views, allowing travellers to experience the diverse landscapes of Kenya as they make their way to this stunning natural reserve.
For those who prefer a quicker mode of transportation, flying is also an excellent option. There are daily scheduled flights that connect Nairobi to one of two airstrips located within Meru National Park. The main airstrip, known as Kinna, is strategically situated near Mulika Lodge, providing convenient access for guests staying at this establishment. Additionally, another airstrip named Mughwongo Airstrip lies adjacent to Elsa’s Kopje Eco-Lodge, offering visitors yet another gateway into the breathtaking wilderness that Meru National Park has to offer. This dual access by both land and air makes it increasingly feasible for travelers to explore this captivating destination with ease and efficiency.
Attractions in Meru National Park
Meru National Park is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike. It proudly hosts the iconic Big Five, which includes the majestic African elephant, the formidable lion, the elusive leopard, the swift buffalo, and the critically endangered rhinoceros. Among these captivating animals, elephants are particularly prevalent; their large herds can often be observed roaming freely throughout the park’s expansive landscapes, exhibiting a level of comfort and tranquility in their natural habitat that captivates visitors. While sightings of big cats—namely lions, leopards, and cheetahs—are not guaranteed due to their more solitary and unpredictable nature, all three species are known to inhabit this diverse ecosystem. Moreover, there exists a promising chance of encountering both white and black rhinoceroses within the designated drive-in rhino sanctuary that spans an impressive area of 85 square kilometres (approximately 33 square miles). However, it is essential to note that due to the dense vegetation characteristic of this sanctuary—comprised of thick bushland—the likelihood of spotting black rhinos diminishes significantly. In addition to these remarkable wildlife encounters, Meru National Park is also home to a plethora of other attractions that enrich its allure. Visitors can explore Adamson’s Falls—a site steeped in history as it was once inhabited by renowned conservationists George and Joy Adamson. The area also holds significant sentimental value as it contains the burial sites of Joy Adamson herself alongside Elsa the Lioness—an emblematic figure in conservation who captured hearts worldwide through her story. The park offers breath taking vistas as well; panoramic views of Mount Kenya provide a stunning backdrop against which one can experience some of Africa’s most unspoiled landscapes. Furthermore, meandering along the banks of both the Tana River and Rojewero Rivers reveals opportunities to observe fascinating aquatic life such as hippos and Nile crocodiles basking in their natural environment. Overall, Meru National Park stands out not only for its rich biodiversity but also for its historical significance and stunning scenery.
Park rules/code of conduct
- Respect the privacy of the wildlife, this is their habitat.
- Beware of the animals, they are wild and can be unpredictable.
- Don’t crowd the animals or make sudden noises or movements.
- Don’t feed the animals, it upsets their diet and leads to human dependence.
- Keep quiet, noise disturbs the wildlife and may antagonize your fellow visitors.
- Stay in your vehicle at all times, except at designated picnic or walking areas.
- Keep below the maximum speed limit (40 kph/25 mph).
- Never drive off-road, this severely damages the habitat.
- When viewing wildlife keep to a minimum distance of 20 meters and pull to the side of the road so as to allow others to pass.
- Leave no litter and never leave fires unattended or discard burning objects.
- Respect the cultural heritage of Kenya, never take pictures of the local people or their habitat without asking their permission, respect the cultural traditions of Kenya and always dress with decorum.
- Stay over or leave before dusk, visitors must vacate the Park between 6.00 p.m. – 6.00 a.m. unless they are camping overnight. Night game driving is not allowed.