Remote, rugged, and blissfully untouched, Meru National Park is one of Kenya’s most authentic wilderness enclaves — an 870 sq. km sanctuary where raw nature reigns supreme. This is a land of sweeping savannahs, palm-fringed rivers, volcanic outcrops, and thriving wildlife in every direction. For travelers seeking the Africa of old — isolated, pristine, and profoundly beautiful — Meru stands in a league of its own.
Flanked by Bisanadi National Reserve to the northeast and Kora National Park to the southeast, Meru forms part of a vast, unspoiled conservation landscape that feels delightfully removed from the modern world.
Meru is inseparable from one of Africa’s greatest conservation stories: the legacy of Joy and George Adamson.
This is where the world-famous lioness Elsa was rescued, raised, and ultimately returned to the wild — a story told through Joy Adamson’s bestselling book Born Free and later the iconic film.
Travelers from around the world still journey to Meru to walk in the footsteps of the Adamsons, visit memorial sites, and experience the very wilderness where Elsa’s story unfolded.
By Road
From Nairobi (348 km) via Nyeri – Nanyuki – Meru
Via Embu (all-weather roads)
From Maua to Murera Gate: 35 km
From Embu to Ura Gate: 161 km
By Air
Celebrity Tours organizes seamless private and scheduled flights to:
Kinna Airstrip
Mulika Airstrip (next to Meru Mulika Lodge)
Mughwongo Airstrip (next to Elsa’s Kopje Eco-Lodge)
Meru’s biodiversity is extraordinary — a wildlife haven where northern and southern species coexist. On luxury game drives with Celebrity Tours, guests may encounter:
Grevy’s zebra
Elephant
Eland
Bush pig
Waterbuck
Cheetah & Leopard
Reticulated giraffe
Hippo
Bohor reedbuck
Hartebeest
Buffalo
Pythons, cobras & other reptiles
Over 427 species of birds
This is also one of the few places where the dry northern bushlands meet lush riverine forests — creating an unusual ecosystem where wildlife thrives year-round.
With over 427 confirmed species, Meru is a paradise for ornithologists and nature photographers. Expect everything from raptors and river dwellers to vibrant dryland birds.
Meru’s scenery shifts dramatically as you explore:
Thorny bushlands in the north
Wooded grasslands in the west
Open plains across the interior
Dense riverine forests of doum palms and raffia palms along the streams
It’s a landscape bursting with contrast and color.
Meru lies in Kenya’s semi-arid zone, with irregular rainfall:
Wet seasons: April–June & November–December
Annual rainfall:
West: 635–762 mm
East: 305–356 mm
Days are warm, evenings pleasantly cool — perfect safari conditions.
For day trips or overnight safaris, Celebrity Tours recommends packing:
Comfortable outdoor clothing
Drinking water
Camera & binoculars
Sunscreen & insect repellent
Sunglasses & sunhat
Personal effects & first aid essentials
Hiking shoes
Extra fuel for self-drive visitors
Camping equipment (if staying at public campsites)
Meru offers a wealth of experiences for safari lovers, historians, and adventurers:
Born Free Heritage Sites
Elsa’s Grave
Pippa’s Grave
Historic Adamson locations
Adamson’s Falls & Rapids
Wildlife Highlights
Legendary Meru lion prides
Rhinos, elephants, zebra & big cats
Exceptional dryland and riverine bird species
Scenic Landmarks
Nyambene Hills
Tana River
Mount Kenya views
The Equator
Inselbergs & volcanic kopjes
Swamps & natural springs
Culture & Community
Experience the rich traditions of Kenya’s northern communities:
Borana cultural center at Bisanadi Gate
Tharaka cultural village at Ura Gate
Encounter the warm hospitality of the Ameru people
Activities
Premium game drives
Guided hikes
Picnics in the wilderness
Swimming at Kinna cottages
Camping (public & special campsites)
