Nyerere National Park

Overview

Nyerere National Park

Welcome to Nyerere National Park, Tanzania’s largest protected wilderness and a true gem for adventurous travelers. Formerly known as the Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere offers a vast, untamed landscape of rivers, wetlands, woodlands, and open plains. At Tanzania Destination, we invite you to experience a safari like no other—where boat safaris, walking expeditions, and private game drives reveal the wild heart of Africa, far from the crowds.

Why Choose Nyerere?

  • Water-Based Safaris: Cruise the Rufiji River and its lagoons for up-close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a dazzling array of waterbirds.
  • True Wilderness: Enjoy long, uninterrupted wildlife sightings and a sense of discovery that’s rare in today’s safari world.
  • Diverse Activities: Combine classic game drives with guided walks, boat trips, fly-camping, and catch-and-release fishing—perfect for families, photographers, and adventure seekers.

Landscape & Ecology

Nyerere River

The Rufiji River

  • The park’s lifeblood, feeding lakes, lagoons, and oxbows that attract wildlife and create dramatic seasonal contrasts.

Habitats

  • Riverine forest, floodplain, miombo woodland, and open savanna—each supporting unique species and behaviors. Multi-day stays reveal the park’s full diversity.

Wildlife Highlights

Nyerere Wildlife
  • Big mammals & aquatic life: Hippos and crocodiles abound in the rivers; elephants, buffalo, lions, and hyenas roam the plains.
  • Special sightings: African wild dogs, large herds of plains game, and a rich birdlife that changes with the seasons.
  • Rare species: Rhinos are extremely rare, but the thrill of discovery is always present.

Signature Experiences

Nyerere Activities
  • Boat Safaris: Glide along the Rufiji at dawn or dusk for magical wildlife and bird encounters—ideal for romance and photography.
  • Walking Safaris & Fly-Camping: Guided bush walks and overnight fly-camps offer a true immersion in the wild.
  • Classic Game Drives: Flexible, private drives focus on predator tracking, elephant herds, and dramatic floodplain scenes.
  • Fishing & Birding: Seasonal fishing and specialist birding departures broaden your adventure and extend your stay.

Best Time to Visit

Nyerere Seasons
  • June–October (Dry Season): Prime time for wildlife—animals gather at water, and both boat and land safaris are at their best. Expect clear skies and excellent photography.
  • November–May (Green Season): Lush scenery, newborn animals, and fantastic birding. Fewer visitors and great value, but some areas may be inaccessible after heavy rains.

Logistics & Accommodation

Nyerere Lodges

Getting There

  • Light aircraft transfers from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or other hubs are fastest and most comfortable for premium guests. Overland transfers suit adventurous travelers.

Where to Stay

  • Choose from riverfront lodges, intimate tented camps, and seasonal mobile camps. Exclusive-use options, private boats, and small-group departures are available for a personalized experience.

Suggested Stay

  • 3–4 nights for a classic introduction; 5–7 nights for deeper immersion with walking safaris, fly-camping, and flexible wildlife tracking.

Conservation & Community

Nyerere Conservation
  • Your visit supports anti-poaching, habitat protection, and research—tourism revenue is vital for conservation.
  • We proudly support local employment, craft cooperatives, and benefit-sharing programs that empower communities.
  • We promote low-impact boating, ethical wildlife viewing, no-trace camping, and fair tipping for guides and boat crews. Choose Tanzania Destination for a responsible, unforgettable safari.

Nyerere National Park Map

This map shows the Nyerere National Park area.