Nyerere (Selous) National Park

Nyerere National Park (Selous) – Africa’s Iconic River Wilderness

Nyerere National Park, formerly part of the vast Selous Game Reserve, is one of Africa’s largest protected areas and Tanzania’s newest national park. Covering over 30,000 square kilometers, it is a landscape of meandering rivers, sprawling wetlands, miombo woodlands, and untouched wilderness. Its remote nature and incredible biodiversity make Nyerere a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic and less-crowded safari experience.

The park is famous for its thriving populations of elephants, lions, African wild dogs, and large numbers of hippos and crocodiles along the mighty Rufiji River. With its pristine environment and rich wildlife, Nyerere National Park offers one of Africa’s most diverse and immersive safari experiences.

Wildlife in Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife, making it one of Tanzania’s most rewarding destinations for nature lovers. The park supports healthy populations of predators and herbivores, and its wetlands attract incredible birdlife.

• Mammals: Elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos
• Predators: Lions, leopards, hyenas, African wild dogs (one of the best places in Africa to see them)
• Aquatic Wildlife: Hippos, crocodiles along the Rufiji River
• Birdlife: Fish eagles, storks, kingfishers, bee-eaters, flamingos

What to Do in Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park offers a wide range of activities, many of which are unique to this southern Tanzania destination:

• Boat Safaris: Cruise the Rufiji River to spot hippos, crocodiles, and exceptional birdlife.
• Game Drives: Explore vast woodlands and open plains with experienced safari guides.
• Walking Safaris: Enjoy guided walks through untouched wilderness — a Nyerere specialty.
• Birdwatching: A paradise for bird enthusiasts with hundreds of species.
• Photography Safaris: Capture dramatic river views, wildlife, and sunsets.

Best Time to Visit Nyerere National Park

Nyerere is a year-round safari destination, but seasonal changes offer different experiences:

• June to October (Dry Season): Best for wildlife viewing as animals gather near rivers and water sources.
• November to May (Green Season): Lush landscapes, excellent birdwatching, and fewer tourists, though some roads may be muddy.

The dry season is perfect for game drives and river safaris, while the green season transforms Nyerere into a photographer’s paradise.

Unique Features of Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park stands out for its incredible variety of habitats and river-based experiences:

• Rufiji River System: The largest river in Tanzania and the lifeline of the park.
• Boat Safaris: One of the few parks in Tanzania offering river-based wildlife viewing.
• Wild Dog Population: One of Africa’s last strongholds of the endangered African wild dog.
• Vast Wetlands and Lakes: Perfect habitats for hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds.
• Remote Wilderness: Unspoiled landscapes ideal for private and peaceful safaris.

Accessing Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park is accessible both by road and air, offering flexibility for different travelers:

• By Air: Daily flights from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar to various airstrips inside the park (approx. 45–90 minutes).
• By Road: A 5–6 hour drive from Dar es Salaam, depending on route and road conditions.

Its proximity to Dar es Salaam makes Nyerere ideal for short safaris or as part of a longer Southern Circuit journey.

Recommended Nyerere Safari Packages

Choose from our expertly designed safari packages for Nyerere National Park:

• 3 Days Nyerere (Selous) Safari: Ideal for a quick escape into Tanzania’s largest wilderness.
• 4 Days Nyerere Safari: A deeper exploration including game drives and boat safaris.
• 5 Days Nyerere & Mikumi Safari: Combines two unique Southern Tanzania ecosystems.
• 7 Days Southern Tanzania Safari: Explore Nyerere, Mikumi, and Ruaha in one itinerary.

All packages include accommodations, park fees, transportation, meals, and professional guides.

Take Away!

Nyerere National Park is a breathtaking wilderness where river, forest, and savanna blend into a remarkable safari paradise. Whether you want boat safaris, walking adventures, or intimate wildlife encounters, Nyerere promises a safari experience found nowhere else in East Africa.