Best hotels in Meru

​Forest habitats are rarely associated with Kenya's wilderness areas, so the leafy grove in which Rhino River Camp sits makes this an especially charming destination. The camp lies just outside the western border of Meru National Park, in a 32-hectare private concession that's conveniently close to the park's dedicated rhino sanctuary. There's Big Five game-viewing to be had – and the chance to see rhinos up-close. Back at camp, the sound of a small waterfall and chuckling river, and surroundings that morph into the treeline, create a restful spot to re-energise yourself. Rhino River is a retreat like no other.

iKWETA Safari Camp is an affordable safari luxury and eco-friendly camp that invites guests to explore the complete wilderness of Meru National Park, one of Kenya’s most beautiful protected areas. Enjoy picturesque, diverse, pristine, abundant wildlife, during an uncrowded safari adventure.

Meru is North East of Mt Kenya and one of the country’s most beautiful and under-rated wilderness areas. With very few camps and even fewer visitors, it has many quiet river streams, towering doum palms and a spread of fantastic wildlife. Not only is Meru home to a huge diversity—some northern species of birds and mammals which are not found further south in Africa—it is also home to a protected population of wild rhino and it was once home to Elsa, the famous ‘Born Free' lioness. When you aren’t out exploring this wonderful wilderness, you are back at camp, where the chef whips up spectacular rustic cuisine using little more than an open fire and a colourful imagination. At night, you will sleep to the soulful sound of lions roaring alongside the Rojerwero river. If you are up for it, you can even try your hand at catching tilapia in the river streams after breakfast. Fresh food doesn’t get better than that!