Meru National Park Guide, Activities, and More

Overview of the Meru National Park

Although the park was established in the late 60’s, it was not until it was featured on the film Born Free that the world got to know about it. The Meru National Park is the perfect definition of wild and beautiful. Stretched over 870km2 of land covered in lush green grass, the park has cemented its position as one of the leading tourist destinations in Kenya.

The Meru National park is doubtlessly stunning, not that we expect less considering that she is beautifully bisected by 13 rivers and some streams from the Mt. Kenya and the Nyambeni Mountain Rage.

It is her three-in-one trait that has, perhaps, put her at the top of her game. Tourists who pay for access through the Meru National Park’s Ura or Murera gate get unlimited access to the Kora National Park, Bisanadi National Reserve, and the Mwingi National Reserve.

Weather & Climate

The weather in Meru National Park is warm and humid throughout the year. During the dry season which runs from November to April, temperatures typically range from 16°C (60F) during cold nights to 34°C (93F) during hot days. 

The rainy season usually starts around May and runs through October, bringing with it higher humidity and heavier rainfall. During this time, temperatures remain fairly high but there is usually a drop in the afternoon when showers occur. 

Meru National Park also experiences periodic winds that can bring dust storms and cooler temperatures depending on the direction they are blowing from. Due to its location near the equator, days and nights are of roughly equal length throughout the year.

Meru National Park Charges 

Meru national park entrance fee for foreigners is USD 70, while that for Kenyans is KES 1500. In addition, camping fees are USD 10 per person per night and vehicle entry fee is KES 1000.

Best Time to Visit Meru National Park

When looking to visit Meru National Park, the wisest decision is to go during the dry season between mid-June and mid-October. During this season, temperatures are more moderate and rain is minimal – both of which make wildlife viewing easier. 

Because there are less crowds during this time as well, it’s also a great opportunity to get up close and personal with the animals. However, if you’re looking for a unique experience, it’s worth noting that the wet season (November to March) is known for its lush green landscape and heavy rains – making it an interesting time of year as well. 

Either way, visitors can expect warm temperatures all year round.

Getting to the Meru National Park

The Meru National Park can be accessed from every corner of the earth be it New York, Sydney, London, Beijing, Tokyo or California. All it takes is a direct flight to the Nairobi based Jomo Kenyatta International Airport from where you can travel to the park; either by road or by air.

By Road

All weather roads link the park to Nairobi. There are two routes to the park;

• Route one; from Nairobi to Nyeri-Nanyuki-Meru-Mau to the main gate at Murera Gate. This route covers a distance of 384 kilometers.
• Route two; from Nairobi-Embu-Meru-Mau and finally to the main gate, Murera Gate. This course covers a distance of 350 kilometers.

By Air

Although the park has 16 airstrips, only four of them are used to access the park. They are; Kinna, Masanduku, Murera, and Mulika airstrips. The Wilson Airport offers daily day flights to the park.