Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve)

Selous Game Reserve with endangered wild dogs
Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve) is the largest protected wildlife area in South of Tanzania and the biggest game reserve in Africa which covers a vast area of about 32,400 km², with an altitude of between 110 – 1250 m and covers 6% of Tanzania.

Nyerere National Park is designated park due to its unique ecological importance which has the finest unspoiled virgin bush and it is one of the list scientifically researched areas in Africa. 1,700 botanical species have been identified.

Nyerere National Park boost larger population of Elephants as well as large numbers of Buffalo, Hippo, Crocodile and endangered Wild dog.

Commonly seen are pride of Lion, Bush buck, Impala, Warthogs, Ostrich, Giraffe, Eland, Baboon, Zebra, Hyena, Kudu, rare sable antelope and Leopard.

In Nyerere National Park there are more than 400 species of bird life: Fish eagle, Kingfisher, Secretary bird, Sunbird, Hammer kop, Red & Yellow bill stork, Open bill stork, Weavers, Water birds, Marabou stork, Vulture’s etc.

Activities in Nyerere National Park
Walking safari accompanied by armed ranger , Boat Safari, game drive & Visiting local village at Mloka / Kisaki.

Dry Season in Nyerere National Park
June – Mid November: Best time for game viewing.
December – February: Humid & Hot: Good time for game viewing.

Rainy Season in Nyerere National Park
Mid November – Mid December: Short Rain: Wonderful for birdlife and lush scenery but many roads were impassable after heavy rains
April – May: Heavy rain: Wonderful for birdlife and lush scenery but many roads are impassable after heavy rains. Don’t recommend to travel during these months.

Most of the lodges are usually closed from April to end of May.

Getting to Nyerere National Park:
Road: Apprx 5 hours (during dry season) from Dar es salaam
Flight: 45 Min flight from Dar es Salaam

Suggested Itineraries for Nyerere National Park ( Selous Game Reserve) : Minimum 3 Days/ 2 Night Safari : Nyerere National Park can be combined with Mafia Island, Kilwa & Mikumi :

Accommodations in Nyerere National Park