Selous Game Reserve (The Nyerere National Park Tanzania) | Tanzania Wildlife Safari

Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) 

The Selous Game Reserve is a top destination in southern Tanzania and one of the country’s top less-crowded safaris. In the reserve, tourists can see large numbers of elephants, black rhinoceroses, cheetahs, giraffes, hippopotamuses, and crocodiles. The reserve is relatively undisturbed by human impact, making it perfect for connecting with nature. In addition to game drives, tourists can do bird watching and photography in the reserve.

Nyerere National Park Facts  

  • Selous Game Reserve was developed in 1922
  • It is the largest game reserve in Africa
  • The Selous Game Reserve is now known as the Nyerere National Park
  • It features a wilderness area and a protected nature reserve covering a total area of 19,000 square miles.
  • Throughout the protected land, you can see grass plains, open woodlands, mountains and a wilderness of forests
  • The best part about the park is that most of the area is in a wild state without much alternation from human activities.
  • The Selous Game Reserve is a World Heritage Site.
  • This reserve is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1982

Selous Game Reserve Safaris and Tours

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Activities at the Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve) 

Here are some of the top activities you can perform at the Selous Game Reserve:

Game Drives and Wildlife Photography

Wildlife lovers can try the Selous Game Reserve game drives. You can go around the place to see different endangered animals, such as lions, Masai giraffes, plain zebras, black rhinoceros, and bush elephants.

Bird Watching & Bird Photography

You can try going on a birding safari at Nyerere National Park. The park has different bird species throughout the year, but the best time for bird-watching is from November to April.

Boats Safaris

One unique activity at the park is a boat ride safari at the Mighty Rufiji River. It is a 2-3 hours boat ride that you can enjoy with friends and family.

Village Visit

Talk to the famous nomadic tribe in East Africa. You can get a glimpse of their way of life and their unique approach to essential things.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Get a thrilling experience in a once-in-a-lifetime experience at a hot air balloon safari at the Nyerere National Park. It is a worthwhile flying safari, allowing you to go around the park as you enjoy the scenery, animals, and birds.

Bush Meals & Sundowners

Want to watch the sun go down or enjoy a meal in the wild? The Nyerere National Park facilitates such experiences at specified spots. Visitors can enjoy their meals at a scenic spot and watch the sun go down.

When is the Best Time to Visit the Nyerere National Park?

The best time to visit the Nyerere National Park or the Selous Game Reserve is June to October. During the dry period, it is easy to explore the reserve. Also, it is easy to spot the animals since the vegetation is short, and most animals gather at the Rufiji River. It is best to visit the park during the wet season for bird watching since many birds are available then.

Lake Mburo national Park

Attractions at the Nyerere National Park

The Selous Game Reserve’s main attraction is the wildlife. Nyerere National Park is the home to the world’s most endangered animals, including the following:

  • Bush elephants
  • Black rhinoceros
  • Hippopotamus
  • Lion
  • Leopards
  • Spotted hyenas
  • Painted Dogs
  • Masai Giraffes
  • Plains Zebras
  • White-bearded gnu

Accommodations at the Selous Game Reserve

The Selous Game Reserve has many accommodations for visitors from all over the world. Some popular options include the Selous Mapumziko Lodge, Selous River Camp, Africa Safari Selous, Lake Jipe Eco Lodge, Salt Lick Safari Lodge, etc. If you enjoy the nightlife in the wild, you can try the park’s campsites. They are well-protected areas where you get an armed and professional guide to assist you.

Safety Guides and Tips 

  • Take the recommended vaccinations when visiting the Selous Game Reserve
  • Keep a distance from the wild animals
  • Always stay at designated areas during camping and late-night drives
  • Get a professional tour guide from a credible Tours and Travel Agency to take you around the park
  • Always listen to your tour guide at all times

Selous Game Reserve FAQs 

It is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Centre with a large area relatively undisturbed by human activities. Also, there are many exciting animals to watch in the park. 

The Selous Game Reserve in the southeastern region of Tanzania. It is among the largest but less populated parks in the country. There are many things to watch, including sceneries, vegetation, wild animals, and birds.

Nyerere National Park is the largest game reserve in Africa, but it is among the unknown areas in Tanzania. It is among the silent national parks, with beautiful scenery and fewer crowds. You can spot many animal and bird species in the area.

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