Nyerere National Park, created in 2019 from the northern part of the Selous Game Reserve, is one of the largest protected areas in Africa. Most visitors still know it as the Selous. The Rufiji River winds through the park in a maze of channels and lakes, and it is the river that makes a safari here different: alongside game drives you can explore by boat and on foot.
The park is a stronghold for the African wild dog, and it also has large numbers of elephant, buffalo, hippo and crocodile, as well as lions and many water birds. It sees far fewer visitors than the northern parks, so sightings feel wilder. Most people fly in by light aircraft from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, which makes it easy to combine with a beach holiday.
Highlights
Wildlife
Things to do
Gallery
Frequently asked questions
Is Nyerere National Park the same as the Selous?
Mostly. In 2019 the northern part of the Selous Game Reserve, where almost all safaris take place, became Nyerere National Park. Many people still call it the Selous.
How do I get to Nyerere National Park?
Most visitors fly in by light aircraft from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar. Road transfers are also possible and are a good choice on a budget.
