Overview
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
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
- 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
- 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
- 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
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
- 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.