Meru National Park remains one of Kenya’s most unspoiled landscapes. Spanning rivers, doum palms, and tall grasslands, it’s where the famous lioness Elsa from *Born Free* was released into the wild. Today, Meru embodies that spirit of untouched Africa—vast, quiet, and surprisingly rich in wildlife.
The park protects rhinos in a large fenced sanctuary while its open plains teem with elephants, lions, and herds of oryx, hartebeest, and buffalo. Twelve rivers cut across the park, sustaining lush vegetation and countless bird species, including rare Pel’s fishing owl.
Unlike busier parks, Meru offers solitude and connection to nature’s raw rhythms. Its remoteness is its charm—ideal for travelers seeking authenticity and story-rich safaris far from crowds.
*Best time to visit: June – September and January – February for dry, clear conditions.*