Meru National Park is a stunning wilderness destination in eastern Kenya, famously known as the setting for the bestselling book and film Born Free, which told the story of Joy and George Adamson and their beloved lioness Elsa. Often described as “where the wild begins,” this remote and untamed park boasts diverse landscapes ranging from lush swamps and dense riverine forests to wide-open savannahs, all fed by 13 perennial rivers and streams. Visitors can enjoy game drives spotting the “Big Five,” including lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo, as well as rare species like the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe. The park is also home to the Mughwango Rhino Sanctuary, a critical conservation area protecting both black and white rhinos. With its rich wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and deep conservation history, Meru National Park offers an authentic and uncrowded Kenya safari experience off the beaten path.