Meru
Mount Meru National Park is an endearing little park lying at the foothill of the Nyambene Mountain range. Well off the standard tourist circuit, Meru is a breath of fresh air if you are trying to avoid the crowds that fill up many of Kenya’s mainstream areas. However first timers on safari would do well to know that even though there is good game hidden away here (including elephant, rhino and all the cats) we do not regard Meru as a Big Game park – it can often let clients down if they are expecting a game rich experience. The wilderness is the attraction as you will rarely see another vehicle, but game viewing is often poor.
Meru is most famous for Joy Adamsons rehabilitation of the lioness Elsa who was released here years ago. But the reality of Meru is that game is still skittish here and the road network is not good enough to explore the park thoroughly; much of the park is best explored on foot.
The wilderness on offer here is the main attraction, with days spent walking and simply enjoying the beauty of such a quiet park. In a nutshell, a great park for wilderness lovers as you will probably not see another vehicle, but if you really are seeking for true wilderness then in our view there are much better alternatives! Meru National Park: Accommodation choices
Meru's main attraction is Elsa's Kopje, an incredibly famous lodge that soaks up the Born Free drawcard! In all fairness, the lodge is absolutely lovely and is recognised as one of Kenya's most beautiful lodges. In our view it is certainly number one lodge to soak up the atmopshere here. However Offbeat Meru is also a great choice and a more economical option that offers a more authentic safari.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Mount Meru
The most significant feature of Elsa’s, apart from the views that stretch for years and the perfect tranquility, is the staff and their attitude in the camp. The camp makes a point of growing most of its own produce and so boasts a wonderful selection of fresh vegetables with which to cook.
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