Selous Game Reserve — now officially known as Nyerere National Park — is one of Africa’s largest and most unspoiled wilderness areas. Located in southern Tanzania, this vast reserve offers a raw, exclusive safari experience, far from the crowds of the northern circuit. Characterized by winding rivers, open plains, dense woodlands, and dramatic waterways, Selous delivers a different kind of safari — remote, diverse, and deeply immersive.
Why Selous Is Special
Five reasons this southern wilderness stands apart
Largest protected area
One of Africa’s biggest wilderness reserves
Exclusive and private
Few visitors, remote feel
Rufiji River
Iconic waterway, boat safaris
Walking safaris
Guided walks with armed rangers
Untouched landscapes
Diverse habitats, pristine wilderness
Rufiji River & walking adventures
The Rufiji River is the lifeblood of Selous. Boat safaris along its channels offer intimate encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and birds. Unlike northern parks, Selous permits guided walking safaris — a thrilling way to track wildlife, learn tracking skills, and experience the African bush on foot. This is raw, exclusive safari country.
Essential Information​
Everything you need to plan your Selous / Nyerere safari
Wildlife Highlights
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Large elephant & buffalo populations
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Lions, leopards, hyenas
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African wild dogs (one of the best places)
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Hippos & crocodiles along rivers
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Giraffes, zebras, antelopes
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440+ bird species
Best Time to Visit
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June–Oct (dry): prime wildlife & boat safaris
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Nov–Mar (green): lush landscapes, excellent birding
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Apr–May: heavy rains, park usually closed
Safari Experiences
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Boat safaris on Rufiji River (rare in Tanzania)
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Classic game drives in open savannahs
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Guided walking safaris with armed rangers
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Fly‑in & photography safaris
Accommodations
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Luxury lodges overlooking rivers & lakes
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Exclusive tented camps in remote spots
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Eco‑friendly camps, low‑impact tourism
Getting There
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Fly‑in safaris from Dar es Salaam (short scenic flights)
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Road possible but long; fly recommended
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Easily combined with Zanzibar beach holidays
Conservation & Wilderness
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One of Africa’s largest protected areas
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UNESCO World Heritage Site (Selous)
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Home to endangered wild dogs
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Untouched, remote ecosystems
