TanzaniaSouthern Circuit

Nyerere National Park

Africa's largest protected wildlife reserve with boat safaris

Wildlife
11+ Species
Activities
6 Things to Do
Best Time
June to October for wildlife viewing
Status
Top Pick

About Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park, formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, is Africa's largest protected wildlife area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering an astounding 30,893 square kilometers. The park is centered on the mighty Rufiji River, Tanzania's largest river, which creates a network of channels, lakes, and lagoons supporting extraordinary biodiversity.

The park offers unique safari experiences including boat safaris along the Rufiji River, where visitors can observe hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds from the water, alongside traditional game drives. Nyerere is home to significant populations of elephants, wild dogs, lions, and one of Africa's largest concentrations of hippos and crocodiles. The diverse habitats from riverine forests to open grasslands support over 440 bird species.

What makes Nyerere special is its pristine wilderness character and the variety of safari activities available. Walking safaris through miombo woodlands, fly camping under the stars, and boat safaris at sunset create intimate connections with nature. The park's remote southern location ensures an exclusive experience with minimal tourist traffic, offering authentic wilderness adventures for those seeking Africa as it once was.

Highlights

  • Africa's largest wildlife reserve
  • Unique boat safaris on Rufiji River
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Walking and fly camping safaris
  • Massive hippo and crocodile populations

Things to Do

  • Boat safaris
  • Game drives
  • Walking safaris
  • Fly camping
  • Fishing
  • Bird watching

Wildlife

ElephantWild DogLionLeopardBuffaloHippoCrocodileGiraffeZebraSable AntelopeColobus Monkey

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

June to October for wildlife viewing; December to March for bird watching

Location
Southern Circuit, Tanzania
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