Meru County, located in Kenya’s former Eastern Province, is a region that offers it all. It blends cultural encounters with game and bird sightings, magnificent landscapes, and an infrastructure to match; making it a top tourist destination in Kenya.

To top it off, Meru County offers visitors stunning views of Mount Kenya, the second-highest peak in Africa. The mountain’s proximity to Meru County is a plus for tourists. For one, it offers a breathtaking backdrop. Secondly, it also provides a cool atmosphere from the whiffs of mountainous breeze that constantly gust the area. And as the Meru County Government website explains, the area offers a great starting point for summiting Mount Kenya.

Visit Meru County Kenya with Gemini Expeditions

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day adventure to Meru with Gemini Expeditions. Our tailored package includes a safari in Meru National Park, one of Kenya’s hidden gems. The park, which is less frequented by tourists, offers a truly authentic wilderness experience where you can immerse yourself in nature’s untouched beauty.

From wildlife encounters to scenic landscapes and cultural immersions, our tour package is specially tailored to give you the experience of a lifetime. We have partnered with the best hotels in Meru Kenya to ensure your wilderness experience meets a comfortable and luxurious stay. The package includes transfers from Nairobi, with routes through scenic Kenyan towns, providing a cultural glimpse of the region.

Book your Meru County tour today and enjoy a safari off the beaten path.

#TwendeMeruNaGemini

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Why Visit Meru County?

The imposing Mount Kenya is the most obvious landmark for any visitor to Meru County. However, this region has much more to offer than the three peaks. It is the epitome of Kenya’s heritage, combining traditional and modern ways of life.

To fully immerse yourself in the culture of the locals, it is highly recommended that you visit the Njuri Ncheke Sacred Tree while there. This is the place where Meru elders often hold meetings and traditional events. Here, you will discover a lot about the customs of the Meru people.

Additionally, Meru County is endowed with plenty of wildlife, some of which can hardly be found anywhere else on the continent. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is home to many of these animals, including the endangered black rhino, the sitatunga, and the Grevy’s zebra.

Besides rhinos, Lewa is also home to the other members of the big five – lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalos. There are many other animals and bird species found here. It is vast enough (62,000 acres) to accommodate hippos, cheetahs, wildebeests, hyenas, elands, and many more.

Some of these animals are also found outside the conservancy in places such as Ngare Ndare Forest. This vast indigenous forest is an attraction on its own. A guided nature walk in the forest will expose you to different species of plants, birds and animals including the endangered African elephant.

For lovers of the adrenaline rush, there are activities in the forest such as canopy walks (walks on suspended bridges positioned way above the forest floor). The highlight of a visit to this forest is always the breathtaking Ngare Ndare waterfall. The cascading water makes for good photography. The clarity of the water is perfect for a dip on a hot afternoon, and the general aura is apt for leisure and relaxation.

Another popular area for game lovers is Meru National Park, an 870 km² haven for many animals including the African big five. There are also several rivers in the park which are home to hippos and crocodiles. Besides rainfall, these rivers act as supplementary sources of water for the diverse species of flora and fauna here.

Trip Highlights

Duration: Three days and two nights in Meru County Kenya
Accommodation: Stay at luxurious lodges like the Rhino River Camp
Game Drives: Explore Meru National Park in 4x4 vehicles
Bird Watching: Spot over 450 species of birds in Meru's avian spectacle
Nature Walks: Take guided walks for a closer look at the flora and fauna
Cultural Heritage: Learn about the Njuri Ncheke and the Ameru culture

Day 1 :

Nairobi to Meru

Our driver will pick you up from the airport, hotel, apartment or any other preferred location in Nairobi. This will be at 8 am after you’ve had your breakfast. You will then take off for Meru, a 3-hour drive through the scenic Kenyan countryside.

The driver will take you to your hotel in Meru for check-in and lunch. Spend your afternoon settling in the hotel, swimming in the pool, and exploring the property before departing for an evening game drive in Meru National Park.

The park was popularized by the book titled “Born Free”, which follows the lives of George Adamson, Joy Adamson and Elsa, the lioness.

The tour guide will drive you back to your hotel/camp for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2 :

Game drive in Meru National Park and picnic lunch

Your second day in Meru starts with an early morning safari. The tour guide will take you on a game drive during which you can spot sleeping hyraxes and other nocturnal animals before they retreat to their day homes.

Watch as the sun rises over the Meru savanna, to welcome a new day of another game drive safari in Meru. The animals you can expect to catch sight of during the day include lions, buffalos, Grevy’s zebra, waterbucks, elephants, hartebeests, cheetahs, impala, hyenas, kudus, leopards, black and white rhinos, giraffes, baboons, jackals and many more.

The tour guide will take you to the various rivers that flow through the park. Along their banks, you will see hippos, crocodiles and other wildlife that come to quench their thirst and cushion themselves from the afternoon heat.

There’s an abundance of birdlife in the park as well. Some bird species include the Pel’s fishing owl, kingfishers, weavers, rollers and Peter’s fin foot.

You will then have a picnic lunch in the midst of the beautiful scenery of the park, before an afternoon bush walk in the sanctuary.

Day 3 :

Morning game drive and departure

On the morning of the final day, the tour guide will pick you up from your lodge or hotel before breakfast for your final Meru National Park safari.

This is a great time for a game drive - before the sun starts scorching and animals retreat to hide under shades.

The guide will drive you back to your Meru resort for breakfast, checkout, and the journey back to Nairobi.

Frequently Asked Questions About Meru County

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Where is Meru?

Meru is located in eastern Kenya, lying at the foothills of Mount Kenya. The region is known for its lush landscapes, fertile farmlands, and stunning wildlife habitats, including the renowned Meru National Park. It is situated approximately 225 kilometers (140 miles) northeast of Nairobi, making it accessible and an ideal escape into nature.

Meru is in which county?

Meru town is the headquarters of Meru County, one of Kenya’s 47 counties. Meru County is part of the Eastern region of Kenya and is bordered by Tharaka Nithi, Isiolo, and Laikipia counties.

What is Meru, Kenya famous for?

Meru, Kenya, is famous for its incredible biodiversity, vibrant culture, and thriving agricultural sector. It is home to the breathtaking Meru National Park, known for its rich wildlife, including the “Big Five,” and unspoiled natural beauty. Additionally, Meru is celebrated for its lush tea and coffee plantations, making it one of Kenya’s key agricultural hubs.

What is Meru County known for?

Meru County is renowned for its agricultural prosperity, producing crops like miraa (khat), bananas, tea, and coffee. It’s also known for its cultural heritage, as the home of the Ameru people, who have a rich history and traditions. The county boasts stunning scenery, ranging from the rugged Nyambene Hills to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Meru National Park.

What is unique about Meru National Park?

Meru National Park stands out as one of Kenya’s most pristine and unspoiled wildlife sanctuaries. Its uniqueness lies in its dense network of 13 rivers and numerous streams, which sustain its vibrant ecosystems. It’s also the historic home of Elsa the lioness, made famous by Joy Adamson’s book and movie, Born Free. The park offers an exceptional mix of savannah, woodlands, and wetlands, teeming with diverse wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, lions, cheetahs, and over 300 bird species. Unlike more crowded parks, Meru offers a tranquil safari experience in a less commercialized setting.

How to access Meru National Park?

You can access Meru National Park either by road or air:

By Road: From Nairobi, it’s a 350-kilometer drive (approximately 6 hours). The main entry gate is via Murera Gate. The road journey takes you through scenic landscapes, including views of Mount Kenya and vibrant rural towns. Gemini Expeditions organizes comfortable, guided road trips in well-maintained vehicles, ensuring you enjoy every moment of the journey.
By Air: There are scheduled flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Kinna or Mulika Airstrip, both located near the park. Air travel takes about 45 minutes and is a convenient option for those on a tight schedule. Gemini Expeditions can handle all your flight arrangements, ground transfers, and even personalized itineraries to make your trip unforgettable.

Whether by road or air, with Gemini Expeditions, the journey becomes seamless and stress-free. Gemini Expeditions is your trusted partner in creating a memorable adventure to Meru National Park. With our expertise and attention to detail, all you need to do is relax and immerse yourself in the beauty of Kenya. #TwendeMeruNaGemini

Which river passes through Meru National Park?

The mighty Tana River, Kenya’s longest river, flows through Meru National Park, providing a lifeline to its ecosystems. Additionally, the park is intersected by several smaller rivers, including the Rojewero and Ura Rivers, which enhance its rich biodiversity.

What is the movie about Meru National Park?

The movie Born Free (1966) is famously associated with Meru National Park. It tells the true story of George and Joy Adamson, who raised an orphaned lioness named Elsa and successfully released her back into the wild. The park served as Elsa’s home and remains a significant landmark in wildlife conservation history.

Which tribe stays in Meru?

The Ameru people, or simply the Meru tribe, are the main inhabitants of Meru County. They are a Bantu-speaking community with a rich cultural heritage, known for their traditional music, dances, and folklore. Their customs are deeply tied to the natural environment, including their sacred connection to Mount Kenya.

What are Meru famous for?

Meru is famous for its miraa (khat) farming, a stimulant plant highly valued in local and international markets. Additionally, the region is renowned for its high-quality tea and coffee, cultural richness, and as the gateway to Meru National Park, one of Kenya’s hidden wildlife gems.

How many towns are in Meru County?

Meru County Kenya has several towns and urban centers, the most prominent being Meru Town, which serves as the county headquarters. Other notable towns include Maua, Timau, Nkubu, and Igembe. These towns form the economic and administrative hubs of the county.

How big is Meru, Kenya?

Meru County covers an area of approximately 7,006 square kilometers (2,705 square miles). Its diverse landscapes range from fertile agricultural lands in the west to semi-arid regions in the east, making it one of Kenya’s most ecologically diverse counties.

3-Day Meru County Tour: Explore Kenya’s Spectacular Eastern Province

Visit Meru County Kenya with Gemini Expeditions

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Why Visit Meru County?

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Trip Inclusions and Exclusions

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Frequently Asked Questions About Meru County

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

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Visit Meru County Kenya with Gemini Expeditions

Why Visit Meru County?

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Trip Inclusions and Exclusions

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Frequently Asked Questions About Meru County

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

Recent Posts

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