Discover the Majestic Mountain Bongos with Merengeti Rhino Safari

Under the distinguished leadership of the 2nd Governor of Meru County, Meru County established the  esteemed Meru Mountain Bongo & Black Rhino Sanctuary on the slopes of Mt. Kenya—specifically within the Mucheene and Marania forests. This initiative has fostered a vital corridor for wildlife preservation and tourism development.

This significant endeavor exemplifies a robust public–private–people partnership, integrating the efforts of Meru County, the Kenya Forest Service, the Kenya Wildlife Service, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, the Rare Species Conservatory Foundation, and local communities represented by the Ntimaka and Kamulu forest associations.

Repatriation: A New Era for the Mountain Bongo

In 2023, a contingent of 17 mountain bongos—comprising 12 females and 5 males—was transported from Florida to the Marania and Mucheene sanctuaries to establish the foundational population.

Since 2004, 18 bongos originating from North American zoos have been successfully repatriated, bred, and nurtured at the inaugural global Mountain Bongo Sanctuary in Mawingu, Nanyuki. This program has facilitated both wild releases and natural births.

With a current wild population of fewer than 100 individuals, this repatriation represents a critical rescue effort, aiming to elevate the national population to 750 within the next five decades.

The Significance of Mountain Bongo Reintroduction on Mt. Kenya

•  Ecological Stewardship: As forest browsers, bongos play a crucial role in regulating undergrowth and promoting forest health, thereby safeguarding essential water towers surrounding Mt. Kenya.

•  Iconic Conservation Symbolism: Their distinctive striped coats and inherent rarity captivate wildlife enthusiasts and heighten public awareness.

•  Community Empowerment: This initiative generates local employment opportunities, provides school funding, promotes conservation education, and supports honey cooperatives, thereby linking wildlife protection with sustainable livelihoods.

• Catalyst for Tourism: The establishment of sanctuaries, forest trails, and increased wildlife sightings in Meru, Nyeri, and Nanyuki attracts global travelers seeking both adventure and purpose.

  Merengeti Rhino Safari: Your Partner in Purposeful Adventure 

  Operating from our Canadian expertise, with profound East African collaboration, we curate immersive travel experiences that transcend conventional tours, offering truly transformative journeys:

1. Exclusive Bongo Sanctuary Safaris: Embark on treks through the foothills of Mt. Kenya to Marania and Mucheene. Observe bongos within their carefully managed habitats and gain invaluable insights from sanctuary guardians.

2. Conservation Immersion Programs: Engage directly with frontline conservation efforts: assist in breeding, monitoring, and habitat restoration at the Mawingu and Meru sanctuaries, and collaborate with local foresters and rangers.

3. Community & Cultural Encounters: Connect with the Meru, Nyeri, and Nanyuki communities instrumental in conservation success—participate in honey cooperative projects, forest restoration, and vibrant cultural exchange.

4. Integration with Mt. Kenya’s Premier Tourism Hotspots: Enhance your bongo journey with visits to:

   • Nyeri: Explore its colonial-era charm, Aberdare National Park, and picturesque tea estates.

   • Nanyuki: A gateway to Mukogodo and equatorial adventures, offering hiking, canopy walks, and diverse wildlife spotting.

   • Meru: Home to the bongo sanctuary, serene highland scenery, and the authentic essence of mountain culture. Additionally, discover the iconic Meru National Park, sanctuary to endangered white rhinos, and the breathtaking Iombe salt lick with its multi-hued lakes in northern Meru.

     The Merengeti Rhino Safari Distinction

• Conservation-First Travel: Your adventure directly contributes to the resurgence of the bongo population and the sustained upkeep of their sanctuary.

• Local-First Ethos: Your safari generates genuine community impact, empowering forest guardians and local entrepreneurs.

• World-Class Quality: Canadian expertise seamlessly integrates with East African authenticity, ensuring unparalleled comfort and guidance.

• Adventure with Heart: From wildlife safaris to mountain treks, every moment is imbued with profound meaning.

  Join the Revival, Enhance Your Journey

  Reserve your Mountain Bongo & Mt. Kenya Discovery Safari today:

• Embark on guided forest trails accompanied by expert rangers. 

• Participate in significant conservation research and community outreach initiatives. 

•  Reside in eco-lodges that authentically reflect local heritage.

• Experience the warm highland culture of Meru, Nyeri, and Nanyuki life. 

  We invite you to contact us or visit our website merengetirhinosafari.com to discover how your next expedition can support one of the world’s most critical wildlife comebacks—an endeavor meticulously crafted with purpose, powered by strategic partnerships, and inspired by the Mountain Bongo's triumphant return to Mt. Kenya.

   

Let us trek for the bongo, together—with Merengeti Rhino Safari, where every step revitalizes a narrative of resilience.