Nyerere National Park ( Selous Game Reserve ) — Attraction in Pwani Region

Visiting Nyerere National Park was an awe-inspiring experience that truly immerses you in the untamed beauty of Africa. As the largest national park in Tanzania—and one of the largest protected areas on the continent—Nyerere (formerly Selous Game Reserve) is a sanctuary where wildlife roams free and vast riverine landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see.

What Makes Nyerere Special This park is a haven for classic safari lovers and nature enthusiasts. You'll find diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, wild dogs, zebras, and impressive numbers of giraffes. The Rufiji River, which snakes through the park, provides prime viewing of hippos, crocodiles, and a spectacular array of birdlife—over 400 species recorded!

What sets Nyerere apart is the variety of experiences available. From traditional game drives to walking safaris and tranquil boat rides on the Rufiji, every day feels different. The raw, wild atmosphere provides a sense of genuine adventure compared to more developed parks.

Best Time to Visit Season Months Highlights Notes Dry Season (Best) June–October Ideal for wildlife viewing; animals gather at water sources; minimal rain, fewer mosquitoes Popular months—book early Green Season Nov–Feb Lush scenery, fewer visitors, great birdwatching, many newborn animals Some rain, wildlife more dispersed Rainy/Low Season Mar–May Heavy rains, camps/lodges may be closed, high malaria risk Not ideal, many roads impassable The dry season (June–October) is prime for game viewing, with animals congregating at waterholes and visibility at its best. The 'green season' (November–February) offers beautiful landscapes and excellent birding, while March–May is best avoided due to heavy rains and closed accommodations.

Do’s and Don’ts Do’s Book early during the peak dry season.

Go for a boat safari on the Rufiji River—unique to Nyerere and thrilling for close hippo and crocodile sightings.

Bring binoculars and a camera—photography and birdwatching here are outstanding.

Respect wildlife: always maintain a safe distance, particularly from big animals.

Carry plenty of water and snacks: shops are rare inside the park.

Join guided walks for a deeper connection with the bush.

Don’ts Don’t exit your vehicle outside designated areas; predators and elephants roam everywhere.

Don’t use plastic bottles; disposal is an issue—use refillable containers as many lodges offer filtered water.

Avoid loud noises that might disturb animals—or other guests.

Don’t litter; preserve the pristine environment for both wildlife and future visitors.

Don’t wear camouflage: military-style clothing can be illegal or attract unwanted attention in East Africa.

Final Thoughts Nyerere National Park remains one of Africa's purest safari destinations—less crowded and more untamed than the famous northern circuits. With its blend of classic game drives, boating, and walking safaris across extraordinary scenery, it offers a safari experience that feels wild and authentic. The facilities range from basic camps to luxurious lodges, with welcoming staff and knowledgeable guides. Going during the dry season maximizes your chance for unforgettable sightings. Highly recommended for wildlife lovers seeking adventure beyond the mainstream.

All in all, if you crave an authentic, off-the-beaten-path safari with outstanding wildlife and stunning landscapes, Nyerere National Park should...

We came in the wet season as we were in Dar in Salam those dates. Park is beautiful and green. Some animals, but not high densities (giraffe, elephants, kudu, buffalos, zebra, wilder beast, warthogs, hippos, lots of baboons, blue monkeys, etc). We didn’t see any carnivorous species in 3 full days at the park. Main road had heavy traffic with big trucks (something going on with a new hydropower damn), and most of the off-the-main-road-circuits were closed because of the rain. The one close to the river was fully gone as the river destroyed the path altogether, rangers seem fully unaware of it… check in into the park took a well 30 min a coupe of days because they had problems with the system. Heaps of flies during mid day. Animals are often afraid from cars as it was a hunting reserve until 2019. So I guess if it’s your first safari it will be fine, as you will see animals, but we certainly enjoyed much more other national parks (as Kruger in SA). Certainly don’t come in wet season if you have flexibility in dates. Anyway we saw 170 sp of birds, which is...

amazing national park, one of my favorite park in Tanzania. the park is absolutely beautiful with unique landscapes, there you can see almost differently habitats including hills,open woodland, forest, riverine forest. small lakes like Manze, nzelekera etc more overall its abundance of hippos, crocodiles, baboons （yellow).

differently season of the year may offer you to rearize how beautiful is the park, for the wishes of high number of frola and fauna July to October may be much perfect periods to plan in nyerere. there you will plan a mind game as many of animals comes nearby lake shore to drnk water.

alot of giraffes are mostly beulitify the park just because of high availability of resources like food, water. acacia trees makes scenic places in some ares

mor over. hills are their to bring another potential life to some animals with such adaptations.

boat safari are available in the route of Rufiji river. someone can enjoy the sunset on the riverside during the evening, Indeed nyerere national...