From Airport
1 hour
Size
30,893 km²
Hidden Gems
Discover Offbeat places
Photo Spots
Best wildlife photo locations
Accommodation
lodges and camps nearby
Overview
Selous Game Reserve, recently renamed Nyerere National Park, is located in southern Tanzania and is one of Africa’s largest protected wildlife areas. Covering over 30,000 square kilometers, it is more than four times the size of Serengeti National Park. The park is named after Frederick Selous, a famous hunter-turned-conservationist, and it remains one of the wildest and most remote safari destinations in Tanzania. Selous is crossed by the Rufiji River, which forms a complex network of channels, lakes, and swamps — creating one of the most spectacular ecosystems in Africa.
Tourist Attractions
- Rufiji River & Boat Safaris
- The Rufiji River is the park’s lifeblood. It offers unique boat safaris, where visitors can cruise among hippos, crocodiles, and colorful birdlife. It’s one of the few places in Tanzania where water-based safaris are possible.
- Game Drives
- Selous is home to massive herds of elephants, buffalo, giraffes, lions, leopards, and a wide range of antelopes. Game drives through its open plains and woodlands offer fantastic chances to see wildlife with few other vehicles around.
- Walking Safaris
- Selous is one of the few parks in Tanzania where walking safaris are legally allowed and widely available. Guided by armed rangers, visitors can experience the bush up close.
- Birdwatching
- With over 440 bird species, Selous is a birding paradise. You can expect to see bee-eaters, kingfishers, African fish eagles, herons, and many waterbirds around the river and lakes.
- Hot Springs (Maji Moto)
- Tucked deep in the reserve, the hot springs of Maji Moto offer a natural thermal bath experience, surrounded by wilderness.
Fun Facts and Why It Differs from Other Places
- Largest Protected Wildlife Reserve in Africa
- Selous/Nyerere is one of the biggest conservation areas on the continent — larger than Switzerland!
- Less Crowded, More Wild
- Because it’s in the south, Selous receives far fewer tourists than northern parks. This makes it ideal for travelers who want an authentic, uncrowded experience.
- Diverse Safari Activities
- Where most parks only offer game drives, Selous offers game drives, walking safaris, and boat safaris, making it one of the most versatile safari destinations in East Africa.
- Unspoiled and Remote
- The park’s size and remoteness allow animals to roam freely and create a more natural safari experience — with higher chances of witnessing raw, unscripted wildlife behavior.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (June to October):
- This is the best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. Roads are also more accessible, and the weather is cooler.
- Wet Season (November to May):
- Lush greenery and active birdlife. Boat safaris are especially beautiful during this time, but some areas might be difficult to reach due to rain.
Best Accommodations Found at This Place
- Beho Beho Safari Camp
- An exclusive luxury camp known for incredible views, walking safaris, and top-tier service. Great for honeymooners and luxury seekers.
- Selous Serena Camp
- A well-known safari lodge offering elegant tents along the Rufiji River. Offers both land and boat safaris.
- Lake Manze Camp
- A mid-range, eco-friendly tented camp offering authentic safari vibes with excellent wildlife sightings right at camp.
- Selous Riverside Safari Camp
- Affordable and friendly, this camp is ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting to experience the park’s highlights.
FAQs
Yes, the park is safe and well-managed. As always, follow guide instructions, especially during walking or boat safaris.
Absolutely. Boat safaris on the Rufiji River are one of Selous’ biggest attractions — and something not available in most other Tanzanian parks.
Yes. Many lodges cater to families, though walking safaris have age restrictions (typically 16+).
Elephants, buffalo, hippos, lions, crocodiles, giraffes, antelope, leopards, and over 400 bird species. Wild dogs are also occasionally seen, which is rare in most park
Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) offers one of the most authentic, diverse, and remote safari experiences in Tanzania. With its river systems, open plains, forests, and low tourist traffic, it’s a perfect destination for those seeking adventure, peace, and variety. Whether you’re gliding down the Rufiji River on a boat, tracking lions on a game drive, or walking quietly through the bush, Selous promises a safari that’s wild and unforgettable.
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