Nyerere National Park
Nyerere National Park, formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, stands as a crown jewel of Tanzania’s conservation efforts, boasting unparalleled biodiversity and pristine wilderness on an epic scale. Encompassing over 50,000 square kilometers, it holds the distinction of being Africa’s largest protected area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding ecological significance. Named in honor of Tanzania’s first president, Julius Nyerere, the park is a sanctuary for a staggering array of wildlife, including large populations of elephants, lions, African wild dogs, and hippos, thriving amidst its diverse landscapes of savannahs, woodlands, and wetlands. The Rufiji River, the lifeblood of the reserve, weaves its way through the heart of the park, offering a lifeline for countless species and creating a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable safari experiences. Nyerere National Park is not only a haven for iconic African wildlife but also a testament to Tanzania’s commitment to conservation, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world while supporting efforts to preserve it for generations to come.
A Haven For Wildlife
One of the largest protected areas on the African continent is located in Southwest Tanzania: Nyerere National Park and Selous Game Reserve. Combined they cover an area larger than Switzerland. They are home to a such a wealth of wildlife and different habitats that it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. Today, Nyerere National Park is purely dedicated to photographic safaris. Whilst the southern Selous Game Reserve has been split-up into several hunting concessions and leased out to professional trophy-hunting companies.
When going on a safari to Nyerere National Park you can expect to see large concentrations of buffalo, hippo, wildebeest, impalas, zebra, gazelle, hartebeest, giraffe, waterbuck, kudu, crocodile and roan and sable antelopes. What’s more, the park is considered to have half of Tanzania’s elephant population within its boundaries, which makes for exceptional elephant watching.
Numerous predators can be seen along the Rufiji River, such as lions, leopards, cheetah, hyenas and jackals. It is also home to the endangered African Wild Hunting Dog and Black Rhino. Excellent bird watching is on offer thanks to the ~440 resident bird species. Common species include the African spoonbill, white fronted bee-eater, white-headed vultures, African fish eagle, spur-winged lapwings and francolins. Rare birds include the pel’s fishing owl.
Nyerere National Park offers a variety of activities for guests to choose from, such as game drives, boat safari or a guided walk with an armed ranger.
Best time to go to Selous Game Reserve & Nyerere National Park
The best time to go to Nyerere National Park is during the dry season, from June to November. During this period, the animals congregate near water sources, making it easier to see them. The best weather occurs in this season, with daytime temperatures ranging from 27°C (80°F) to 30°C (86°F). All areas of the park are accessible at this time. From October to February, the temperatures rise in the park. The rainy season in Southern Tanzania starts earlier than in the north of the country. The rains can start as early as mid-December. Some lodges and camps close during the long rains, so good planning is important.
WHY TO GO: A huge African wilderness awaits you
You go to Nyerere National Park not only because it is one of the largest and undisturbed places in Africa, but also because of the exceptional wildlife and unique habitats that can be found here.
A trek or a riverboat trip offer a different way to see the wildlife. These experiences change everything. You become not just a passerby. You touch, see, hear, and take in every sound, smell and colour along the way.
The Big Five can be seen here, but nature lovers will be amazed by the park’s ~2100 plant species and ~440 bird species. Lower visitor numbers compared to parks on the Northern Circuit offer you a more secluded experience.
