Meru National Park is one of Kenya’s most rewarding and least-crowded safari destinations. Covering around 870 square kilometres of savanna, riverine forest and doum-palm-lined watercourses, it was made famous by George and Joy Adamson, whose work raising Elsa the lioness inspired the book and film Born Free. Restored to its former glory after decades of conservation work, Meru today offers superb wildlife viewing and a genuine wilderness feel.

Game drives

Game viewing is the park’s main draw. Morning, afternoon and night drives reveal elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah, reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, oryx, lesser kudu and the tiny dik-dik, alongside more than 400 bird species. The park’s many rivers are home to hippo and crocodile.

The Meru Rhino Sanctuary

One of Meru’s highlights is its rhino sanctuary, home to both black and white rhino, giving visitors an excellent chance of completing their Big Five sightings.

Sport fishing

The park’s rivers offer relaxed sport fishing for barbus and catfish along palm-fringed banks – a peaceful change of pace from game drives.

Cultural visits

Visits to nearby communities such as the Tharaka offer insight into traditional Kenyan rural life, farming and customs – an enriching, intimate cultural experience.

Elsa’s grave and Adamson’s Falls

A visit to the grave of Elsa the lioness and the beautiful Adamson’s Falls, where the Tana River cuts through rock formations, connects visitors with the park’s famous conservation story.