Nyerere National Park (Formerly Selous Game Reserve) – Tanzania’s Largest National Park

Overview

Nyerere National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park, covering 30,893 km², making it one of the biggest protected wildlife areas in Africa. It was carved out of the famous Selous Game Reserve in 2019 and named after Julius Nyerere, Tanzania’s first president. The park is part of the greater Selous ecosystem, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich biodiversity and unspoiled wilderness.

Location

• Southern Tanzania, about 230 km from Dar es Salaam.
• Accessible by road (5-6 hours drive) or air (45 minutes flight from Dar es Salaam to various airstrips in the park).

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Nyerere National Park is home to a wide variety of animals, including:

• Big Game: Elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and African wild dogs.
• Hippos & Crocodiles: Abundant along the Rufiji River.
• Antelope Species: Sable, kudu, impala, and waterbuck.
• Over 440 Bird Species: Including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and storks.

Key Attractions

1. Rufiji River – The largest river in Tanzania, perfect for boat safaris and viewing hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife.
2. Game Drives – Unique wildlife viewing in a less crowded environment compared to northern parks like Serengeti.
3. Walking Safaris – One of the few parks in Tanzania that allows guided bush walks.
4. Boat Safaris – A rare safari experience, allowing close encounters with aquatic wildlife.
5. Photographic Safaris – Excellent for photographers due to the diverse landscapes, from savannah plains to wetlands and dense forests.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (June – October): Best for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources.
• Wet Season (November – May): Lush landscapes, great for birdwatching, but some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding.

Accommodation

The park has various accommodation options, ranging from luxury lodges, tented camps, and budget-friendly options, mostly located near the Rufiji River.

How to Get There

• By Air: Daily flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and Arusha.
• By Road: A 5-6 hour drive from Dar es Salaam (best with a 4×4 vehicle).

Why Visit Nyerere National Park?

• Largest park in Tanzania with fewer crowds than the northern parks.
• Diverse safari experiences (boat, walking, and game drives).
• Rich wildlife & bird species, including rare African wild dogs.
• Scenic beauty with rivers, lakes, savannah, and miombo woodlands.