Tanzania · Eastern Circuit

Nyerere National Park (Selous)

One of Africa’s greatest wilderness areas — a vast untamed landscape of rivers, lakes, woodlands, and savannah where boat safaris, walking safaris, and remote game drives create an unforgettable safari beyond the ordinary.

Protected Area
50,000 km²
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Main Feature
Rufiji River
Tanzania’s largest river system
Location
Southern Tanzania
Remote safari wilderness

Reserve Overview

Selous Game Reserve, now partly managed as Nyerere National Park, is among the largest protected wildlife areas in Africa. Dominated by the Rufiji River and its intricate network of lakes and channels, it offers exceptional biodiversity and a safari atmosphere defined by remoteness, authenticity, and wilderness.

Local insight: Selous is one of the few places in Africa where you can combine classic game drives with boat safaris and guided walking safaris in the same itinerary.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season offers prime wildlife viewing, while green season brings dramatic scenery and birdlife.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak / Dry Good / Shoulder Wet / Green

June–October is ideal for concentrated wildlife sightings as animals gather around the Rufiji River and shrinking waterholes.

Wildlife

One of Africa’s richest wildlife ecosystems, especially known for large elephant populations and wild dogs.

Elephant
Lion
Leopard
Buffalo
Wild Dog
Hippo
Crocodile
Giraffe
Zebra
Impala

Birdlife

Over 440 bird species inhabit Selous’ wetlands and forests.

  • African Skimmer on the Rufiji River
  • Fish Eagles and kingfishers
  • Palm-nut Vultures in riverine forest
  • Bee-eaters and hornbills throughout woodland
  • Excellent migratory bird activity in green season

Boat safaris offer some of Tanzania’s finest bird photography opportunities.

Rufiji River

The lifeblood of Selous and one of Africa’s great safari waterways.

  • Classic boat safaris at sunset
  • Hippo pods and crocodile sightings
  • Floodplain lagoons rich in wildlife
  • Exceptional photographic scenery

Evening river cruises provide a completely different safari perspective unavailable in most parks.

Key Landscapes

Rufiji River
The vast river system that shapes the entire ecosystem and supports exceptional biodiversity.
Floodplains
Seasonal wetlands attracting massive concentrations of birds and grazing animals.
Miombo Woodland
Dense woodland habitat home to predators, antelope, and rare wild dogs.
Palm Forests
Beautiful riverine corridors providing shade and unique bird habitats.

Activities

  • Game drives across diverse remote landscapes
  • Boat safaris on the Rufiji River
  • Walking safaris with expert armed guides
  • Birdwatching in wetlands and woodland
  • Photography safaris with dramatic river scenery

Climate

  • Dry: June–October
  • Wet: March–May
  • Hot afternoons year-round
  • Cool evenings by the river

Accommodation

  • Luxury tented camps
  • Riverfront safari lodges
  • Exclusive fly-in camps
  • Private safari houses

Park Fees

  • Adult: TANAPA standard rates
  • Vehicle fees apply
  • Boat safari fees separate
  • Walking safari fees additional

Practical Tips

  • Best accessed by short domestic flight
  • Ideal for safari repeat visitors
  • Pack light breathable clothing
  • Don’t miss a sunset boat safari

Why Visit Selous Game Reserve?

True Wilderness

One of Africa’s largest and least crowded safari ecosystems.

Unique Boat Safaris

Experience wildlife from the water on Tanzania’s greatest safari river.

Walking Adventures

Track animals on foot for an immersive and thrilling bush experience.

Exclusive Luxury

Remote camps and low visitor numbers create an intimate safari atmosphere.