Nyerere National Park ( Selous game reserve)
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Tanzania

Nyerere National Park ( Selous game reserve)

Tanzania

Experience Nyerere National Park ( Selous game reserve)

Established in 2019 and spanning over 30,893 square kilometers, Nyerere National Park is twice the size of the Serengeti and larger than many small countries. Named in honor of Julius Nyerere, Tanzania's first president, the park represents one of the most significant conservation areas on the continent. The landscape is an intricate mosaic of miombo woodlands, open grasslands, riverine forests, and expansive wetlands. The Rufiji River, the longest river in Tanzania, bisects the park and creates a unique network of oxbow lakes, lagoons, and channels. Because it is less frequented than the northern parks, Nyerere offers a raw and exclusive safari experience where visitors can explore the bush without the distraction of other vehicles.

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Popular Safaris in Nyerere National Park ( Selous game reserve)

2-Day Zanzibar-Selous Fly-in Safari
2 Days

2-Day Zanzibar-Selous Fly-in Safari

From

$1,800.00

Things to Do

Boat Safari in Nyerere National Park

Boat Safari in Nyerere National Park

2 to 8 hours.$0.00
Details
Walking Safari in Nyerere National Park

Walking Safari in Nyerere National Park

2 to 3 hours.$50.00
Details

Where to Stay

Selous Wilderness Camp
4

Tented Camp

Selous Wilderness Camp

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Africa Safari Selous
4

Tented Camp

Africa Safari Selous

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Iconic Highlights

1

The Rufiji River: The lifeblood of the park, offering iconic boat safaris where you can see animals from the water.

2

Wild Dog Stronghold: Home to one of the largest remaining populations of the endangered African Wild Dog in the world.

3

Boat Safaris: A rare opportunity in Tanzania to view hippos, crocodiles, and elephants from the unique perspective of a river boat.

4

Walking Safaris: Renowned for its high-quality guided bush walks, providing an intimate connection with the African wilderness.

5

Stiegler’s Gorge: A dramatic canyon on the Rufiji River that is a focal point of the park's geography and history.

Wildlife & Nature

Lion

Elephant

Leopard

Buffalo

Cheetah

Giraffe

Zebra

Wildebeest

Hippo

Climate & When to Visit

Best Time to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Monthly Averages

MonthTemp HighTemp LowRainfall
Apr31°C--°C-- mm
Aug29°C--°C-- mm
Dec32°C--°C-- mm
Feb32°C--°C-- mm
Jan32°C--°C-- mm
Jul29°C--°C-- mm
Jun29°C--°C-- mm
Mar32°C--°C-- mm
May30°C--°C-- mm
Nov33°C--°C-- mm
Oct32°C--°C-- mm
Sep31°C--°C-- mm

Travel Requirements

  • Visa: Standard Tanzania Tourist Visa ($50–$100).

  • Access: Most easily reached via a short flight (45 mins) from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar. Driving from Dar es Salaam takes approximately 5–6 hours on rough roads.

  • Park Fees: Entrance fees must be paid via Government Control Number or credit card at the gates (like Mtemere or Matambwe).

  • Health: Malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended. Yellow Fever certificate required if coming from an endemic country.

    • Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Nyerere National Park the same as the Selous?
    Largely, yes. In 2019, the northern, most wildlife-rich section of the Selous Game Reserve was gazetted as Nyerere National Park to offer it higher protection status. The remaining southern section remains the Selous Game Reserve
    Can I see rhinos in Nyerere?
    Black Rhinos are technically present in the park, but they are extremely elusive and live in the dense thickets of the southern reaches. Sightings are very rare.
    Are boat safaris safe?
    Yes. The boats are operated by experienced guides who understand the behavior of hippos and crocodiles. It is a peaceful and highly safe way to view wildlife.
    Is the park crowded?
    No. Due to its massive size and the fact that most tourists head to the Northern Circuit (Serengeti/Ngorongoro), Nyerere remains one of the most private and exclusive safari destinations in East Africa.
    Do I need a 4x4 for Nyerere?
    For self-drive, a high-clearance 4x4 is absolutely mandatory. The tracks are sandy or muddy and can be very challenging even for experienced drivers. Most visitors use lodge-provided open safari vehicles.

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    Dest Type

    National Parks

    Status

    Entry Permits Required

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