Meru National Park

Wildlife & Animals

Expert

Anthony is the author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

Meru National Park offers good overall wildlife viewing and is home to the Big Five. Elephants are particularly common and relaxed. Big cat sightings aren’t guaranteed but all three are possible. There is a chance of spotting white or black rhino in the drive-in rhino sanctuary, which covers 85km²/33mi². However, the vegetation is extremely thick, making sightings of black rhino less likely. Hippos and Nile crocodiles are common along the Tana and Rojewero Rivers.

ElephantCommon

GiraffeCommon

HippoCommon

BuffaloCommon

ZebraCommon

WildebeestVery Rare

White RhinoCommon

Black RhinoRare

LionOccasional

LeopardOccasional

CheetahRare

HyenaOccasional

Wild DogRare to None

Wildlife Highlights

Meru is developing a reputation for lion and leopard sightings (look for leopard draped along a branch close to the rivers). Meru is also known for its northern Kenyan specials, which are specially adapted to arid conditions. The reticulated giraffe is distinguishable by its dramatic pattern. This is one of few places to encounter the shy lesser kudu, the impressive-looking Beisa oryx, and the gerenuk with its elongated neck.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife viewing in Meru is best during the Dry season (June to October) when animals gather around predictable water sources. Spotting animals is usually more difficult during the long rains (March to May) and short rains (November to December) when the grass tends to be very high. In the rainy season, elephants and some other species move out of the park.