SELOUS/NYERERE NATIONAL PARK

Selous Game Reserve (now officially called Nyerere National Park) is one of Africa’s largest and most iconic wilderness areas, renowned for its vast landscapes and rich wildlife.

🌍 Location & Size

• Situated in southern Tanzania, stretching across the regions of Morogoro, Lindi, Ruvuma, and Pwani.
• Covers about 50,000 km², making it one of the largest protected areas in Africa.
• In 2019, the northern part of Selous was reclassified as Nyerere National Park, while the southern section remains a game reserve.

📜 History & Significance

• Established in 1922 as a game reserve, named after Frederick Selous, a British explorer and conservationist.
• Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 for its ecological importance.
• Famous for its untouched wilderness and low tourist density compared to northern circuit parks.

🐘 Wildlife

• Hosts large populations of elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, hippos, and crocodiles.
• Known for African wild dogs, one of the rarest carnivores in Africa.
• Birdlife is abundant, with over 440 species recorded.
• The Rufiji River is a lifeline, supporting diverse aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

🌿 Landscapes & Features

• A mix of savannah, wetlands, rivers, lakes, and woodlands.
• The Rufiji River dominates the reserve, with networks of channels, lakes, and swamps.
• Scenic boat safaris along the river offer unique wildlife viewing opportunities.

🎒 Activities

• Game drives across vast savannahs.
• Boat safaris on the Rufiji River, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds.
• Walking safaris, offering close encounters with nature.
• Fly-camping and photographic safaris for adventurous travelers.

✨ Why It’s Special

• Size & scale: Larger than Switzerland, offering unmatched wilderness.
• Unique safari mix: Combines traditional game drives with river safaris.
• Conservation importance: Critical habitat for elephants and wild dogs.
• Less crowded: Provides a more remote, authentic safari experience compared to Serengeti or Ngorongoro.