Explore the pristine wilderness in Tanzania’s southern Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve). Witness this region’s wildlife including big...
A safari in Nyerere National Park is extraordinary for its untamed wilderness, vast floodplains, and abundant wildlife, including large herds of elephant, buffalo, and endemic antelope. As Tanzania’s newest and largest park, it offers remote, off-the-beaten-track experiences with minimal crowds and exclusive, luxury mobile or riverside camps. Guided boat and game drives reveal rare predators, hippo-filled rivers, and birdlife-rich wetlands. Nyerere combines authentic African solitude with breathtaking scenery, making every encounter intimate and unforgettable — perfect for travellers seeking a truly wild, unspoilt safari far from the usual tourist routes.
In 2019, Nyerere National Park became Tanzania’s newest National Park, with almost three quarters of the vast Selous Game Reserve falling within its new boundary. This has allowed for a genuine focus here on the conservation of the wildlife which includes large herds of elephant and buffalo alongside a healthy population of lions and the elusive wild dog. Also many thousands of wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, impala, greater kudu, hartebeest and eland, plus more water based wildlife of hippo and crocodile all add up to make safari here a truly rewarding game-viewing experience. There is also an impressive array of birdlife.
The best time to visit Nyerere is June to March.
The environment in Nyerere is also very special, with mixed bush, floodplains and the Rufiji River running through. The array of waterways change by season, with river safaris possible, fishing, alongside game drives and excellent walking safaris too. Fly-camping is also a real highlight.
Safaris in the Nyerere National Park are mainly lodge-based, with visitors enjoying early morning and late afternoon activities whilst otherwise relaxing and enjoying the environment within camp.
Nyerere is 45 minutes flight from Dar es Salaam and 1 hour from Zanzibar and is ideal for 3 or 4 days. The proximity to the Indian Ocean makes it one of our favourite ‘Safari&Beach’ safari options.
There are camps here to suit everyone too, couples or families on a first time safari, birders, keen walkers, or those who love the African bush and want a shorter safari before heading to a beach.
Our favourite tented camps with a superb location: Selous Impala Camp, Lake Manze Camp.
The pioneer of this region and the best camp for walking activities: Sand Rivers
Good Luxury Camps : Roho Ya, Siwandu Camp
Just outside the park and super value : Selous Kulinda Camp
Rustic and simple in style and character, Lake Manze is an exciting experience for those wanting an adventure.
Sand Rivers is a truly wonderful lodge, up there with our favourites in Africa. The stunning location, sublime service and…
Selous Impala Camp is a really good mid-range and value for money option. A lovely location, set amongst Borassus palms…
