Selous National Park

Formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, the area is now part of the Nyerere National Park, the largest national park in Tanzania and one of the largest protected wildlife areas in Africa. Covering over 30,000 square kilometers, it is located in southern Tanzania and remains a hidden gem compared to the more visited parks in the north.

Selous is famous for its raw, untouched wilderness, river systems, and fewer tourist crowds. It offers an authentic and exclusive safari experience, with vast landscapes that range from miombo woodlands to open plains, rivers, and lakes.

Facts About Selous

• UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982 (when it was still designated as a game reserve).

• Now part of Nyerere National Park, covering over 30,000 km².

• Home to the Rufiji River, the largest river in Tanzania, which supports a rich variety of wildlife.

• Offers boat safaris, which are rare in most other Tanzanian parks.

• Named after Frederick Selous, a famous British explorer and conservationist.

• Less commercialized, offering a more private and off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

Excursions and Activities

Selous is one of the most diverse parks in terms of activities. Visitors can enjoy:

• Game Drives: Explore the vast terrain in open safari vehicles with expert guides.

• Boat Safaris: Cruise the Rufiji River to see hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds.

• Walking Safaris: Experience the bush up-close with armed rangers.

• Birdwatching: Especially rewarding along the riverbanks and wetlands.

• Fishing Trips: Catch-and-release fishing in the Rufiji River or adjacent lakes.

• Fly Camping: Sleep under the stars in temporary bush camps for a raw wilderness experience.

Best Time to Visit

Selous (Nyerere) can be visited year-round, but the dry season offers the best wildlife experience:

• Best Time:
  June to October – ideal for game viewing as animals gather near water sources and vegetation is thinner.

• Green Season:
  November to May – beautiful scenery, ideal for birdwatching, but some roads may be inaccessible due to rains.

Note: Some lodges close between March and May during the long rains.