CATS Safaris
Meru National Park
Kenya Meru County

Meru National Park

The setting of Joy Adamson's "Born Free" story, Meru is one of Kenya's most beautiful yet least-visited parks.

Explore Wildlife

Destination Guide

About Meru National Park

The setting of Joy Adamson's "Born Free" story, Meru is one of Kenya's most beautiful yet least-visited parks. Lush riverine forests, palm-dotted plains, and 13 rivers create a diverse wilderness home to all the Big Five.

Why Visit Meru National Park?

Meru National Park offers incredible experiences. The real "Born Free" park — where Elsa the lioness was raised and released. Rhino sanctuary with excellent black and white rhino sightings. Thirteen rivers and pristine wilderness — incredibly scenic. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this destination will leave you with unforgettable memories.

The real "Born Free" park — where Elsa the lioness was raised and released
Rhino sanctuary with excellent black and white rhino sightings
Thirteen rivers and pristine wilderness — incredibly scenic
Far fewer visitors than Masai Mara or Amboseli
Big Five game viewing in a more private, exclusive setting
Diverse habitats from riverine forest to open plains

🦁 Wildlife Guide

Animals of Meru National Park

White Rhinoceros

High

Rhino sanctuary has reintroduced white and black rhinos successfully.

Lion

High

Healthy lion population — the descendants of Elsa roam here.

African Elephant

High

Large herds along the Tana River and palm-dotted plains.

Leopard

Moderate

Found in the dense riverine forests along the 13 rivers.

Reticulated Giraffe

High

The beautiful net-patterned giraffe of northern Kenya.

Grevy's Zebra

Moderate

Endangered Grevy's zebra are found alongside plains zebra.

🎯 Activities & Experiences

Things To Do at Meru National Park

Nature

Game Drives

Morning and evening drives along the 13 rivers — diverse wildlife in beautiful scenery.

Nature

Rhino Tracking

Visit the rhino sanctuary and track black and white rhinos with experienced guides.

Culture

Born Free Legacy Tour

Visit Elsa's grave and learn about Joy Adamson's conservation work that changed the world.

Adventure

Fishing

Sport fishing in the Tana River for catfish and tilapia.

Nature

Bird Watching

Over 300 species in diverse habitats from forest to savanna.

📅 When To Visit

Best Time to Visit Meru National Park

Peak Season

Excellent

July to October

dry season with best wildlife viewing

Good Season

Good

January to March

warm, dry, excellent game drives

Green Season

Fair

April to June

lush and green, fewer visitors

✈️ Getting There

How to Reach Meru National Park

By Road

Drive from Nairobi — 4-5 hours via Embu

By Air

Fly from Nairobi Wilson to Meru airstrip (1 hour)

Transfer

Can be combined with Mount Kenya and Ol Pejeta

💰 Park Fees

Entry Fees for Meru National Park

CategoryFee (per person/day)

* All park fees are included in C.A.T.S safari packages. Fees shown for reference only and may change without notice.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Meru National Park FAQs

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