Meru National Park lies in the north-eastern lowlands below the Nyambeni hills. Meru forms part of a larger wilderness area along the Tana River, including Bisanadi and Mwingi National Reserves, Kora national park and Rahole national reserve. The wetter north-western sector is hilly, with rich volcanic soils. Numerous permanent streams cross the Park, and three large rivers straddle the reserve: the Tana to the south, the Ura to the south-west and the Rojeweru to the east. The park was made famous by the writings of Joy Adamson, most noted for her book Born Free, the true story of Elsa, the lioness, and her return into the wild. 

Seasons: With an average altitude of 2,000 feet, the climate is generally hot and dry, with the nights pleasantly cool and comfortable. Summer months last from Dec-Mar, while winter months run from Jul-Sep. Rain falls from Mar-May and from Nov-Dec. Game viewing is best in the dry months. 

Wildlife: Over 400 bird species have been recorded. You should see: Baboon; Buffalo; Bushbuck; Duiker, Eland; Elephant, Gazelle, Genet, Gerenuk; Giraffe, Hartebeest, Hippo, Hyaena, Hyrax, Impala; Jackal, Kudu, Lion; Mongoose, Vervet Monkey, Oribi; Oryx, Steinbok; Suni, Warthog; Waterbuck and Zebra. You may see: wild dog, aardwolf; bushbaby, Caracal; Cheetah; Civet, Dik-dik; Leopard; Otter, Pangolin, Bush Pig, Porcupine, Ratel; Reedbuck, Black and white rhino; Serval; Shrew and Squirrel. 

Precautions: Malaria area - minimize mosquito bites by wearing light, long sleeved clothing and using effective insect repellents (containing Diethyltoluamide DEET) on exposed skin. Sleep under treated mosquito netting or ensure that the doors and windows of your accommodation are screened against mosquitoes. Having a fan or air-conditioner on at night will further suppress mosquito activity. Currently, the three effective anti-malaria tablets are Mefloquine (Lariam or Mefliam), Doxycycline and Malarone (Malanil). It is still possible to contract malaria while on malaria prophylaxis. Note that Lariam may present serious side-effects - please test before you depart.