Nyerere National Park, formerly part of the Selous Game Reserve, is one of Africa’s largest protected wilderness areas, located in southern Tanzania. Covering vast landscapes of rivers, lakes, woodlands, and open plains, the park offers a remote and untouched safari experience far from the crowds of the northern circuit.
The Rufiji River system forms the lifeline of the park, creating a dynamic ecosystem that supports abundant wildlife year-round. Nyerere National Park is especially renowned for its boat safaris, diverse habitats, and sense of true wilderness, making it ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity and adventure.
June–October
The dry season concentrates wildlife along rivers and lakes, making animal sightings more frequent and game viewing excellent across the park.
The wet season brings lush vegetation and dramatic scenery, with fewer visitors and peak birdwatching, though some areas may be inaccessible.
Nyerere National Park supports a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and large populations of hippos and crocodiles along the riverbanks. The park is also known for its healthy populations of African wild dogs.
Birdlife is exceptional, with over 440 recorded species, particularly concentrated along the Rufiji River and wetlands. The combination of land and water-based wildlife experiences makes Nyerere unique among Tanzania’s parks.
Nyerere National Park is defined by its immense size and varied ecosystems, including miombo woodlands, riverine forests, open grasslands, and wetlands. The Rufiji River and its network of channels, lakes, and lagoons dominate the landscape.
The park’s scale ensures minimal human impact and an authentic safari atmosphere.