National Park · Southern Tanzania
Nyerere National Park
Tanzania's largest national park (formerly the northern part of Selous Game Reserve, renamed in 2019), and one of the largest protected wildlife areas in the world.
How to get there
By scheduled flight from Dar es Salaam is the practical option, given the park's size and remoteness.
What to find
Boat safaris on the Rufiji River, walking safaris, and far lower visitor numbers than the northern circuit.
Overview
Nyerere National Park is Tanzania's largest national park, covering more than 30,000 km². It was created in 2019 from the northern part of the vast Selous Game Reserve, which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982.
The Rufiji River and its lakes and channels are the lifeblood of the park, drawing elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo and big herds of antelope. It's also one of Africa's strongholds for the endangered African wild dog.
Highlights
- Boat safaris on the Rufiji River and its lakes
- Walking safaris and fly-camping
- African wild dogs, lions and large elephant herds
- Very few vehicles compared with the northern parks
Things to do
Boat safaris
River and lake trips for hippos, crocodiles and birds.
Game drives
Open woodland and lake shores.
Walking safaris
Guided walks with armed rangers.
Best time to visit
June to October is the dry season, and the best time. Many camps close during the long rains around April and May.
Getting there
About 45 to 60 minutes by scheduled flight from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar. The road trip is long.
Where to stay
Riverside and lakeside tented camps and lodges.
Nyerere (Selous)
A selection of well-known options, not a complete list. See all accommodation in Tanzania →
Good to know
- Pairs perfectly with a Zanzibar beach stay.
- Combine with Ruaha for a full southern circuit.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.