Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

The Selous Game Reserve, rebranded as Nyerere National Park in 2019, is one of Africa’s largest and most pristine wildlife sanctuaries. Located in southern Tanzania, it spans over 30,000 square kilometers, offering diverse ecosystems and an abundance of wildlife. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it provides visitors with an authentic, off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

Wildlife in Selous/Nyerere

The park is home to a rich variety of animals, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in Africa:

• Mammals: Elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and rare African wild dogs.
• Aquatic Life: Hippos and crocodiles thrive in the Rufiji River and surrounding water systems.
• Birds: Over 440 bird species, including fish eagles, herons, bee-eaters, and pelicans.
• Reptiles: Nile crocodiles are commonly spotted along the rivers.

Key Features of Selous/Nyerere

1. Rufiji River System: The largest river in Tanzania, it flows through the park, creating lagoons, sandbanks, and channels perfect for boat safaris.
2. Diverse Landscapes: From savannah plains and miombo woodlands to wetlands and volcanic hot springs, the park boasts varied terrain.
3. Low Tourist Numbers: With fewer visitors compared to northern parks like Serengeti, Selous offers a quieter, more exclusive safari.

Activities in Selous/Nyerere

• Game Drives: Explore vast open plains and woodland in search of Africa’s iconic wildlife.
• Boat Safaris: Cruise along the Rufiji River for close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and thirsty wildlife on the banks.
• Walking Safaris: Guided walking tours offer an up-close look at smaller wildlife, plants, and tracks.
• Birdwatching: Spot an array of bird species in their natural habitats.
• Fishing: Participate in catch-and-release fishing along the Rufiji River.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (June to October): Wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The weather is cooler and drier.
• Wet Season (November to May): The landscape becomes lush and green, perfect for birdwatching and spotting newborn animals. However, some roads may become inaccessible.

How to Get There

• By Road: A 6-7 hour drive from Dar es Salaam, passing through scenic rural Tanzania.
• By Air: Regular charter flights are available from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or Arusha, landing at airstrips within the park.

Why Visit Selous/Nyerere?

• Untouched Wilderness: Experience Africa in its raw, unspoiled state.
• Wide Range of Activities: From traditional game drives to unique boat safaris, there’s something for every type of traveler.
• Rich Biodiversity: Encounter a variety of iconic African species in one location.
• Tranquility: The park’s remote location and fewer tourists make it a peaceful safari destination.

Whether you’re gliding along the Rufiji River or exploring the open savannah on a game drive, Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) offers an extraordinary safari adventure for nature and wildlife lovers.