Selous Game Reserve

Destination Deep Dive

Nyerere National Park (formerly part of Selous Game Reserve) covers an immense 30,893 square kilometers (11,928 square miles), making it one of Africa’s largest protected areas. Named after Tanzania’s first president, Julius Nyerere, this vast wilderness represents one of the last truly untamed parts of Africa, where nature’s rhythms remain largely undisturbed by human presence.

Geographic Features

The park divides into distinct ecological zones:

Rufiji River System

The mighty Rufiji River forms the park’s lifeline, creating a complex network of channels, lakes, and floodplains. This extensive water system includes:

• Stiegler’s Gorge
• Large seasonal lakes
• Sand rivers
• Permanent water channels
• Extensive wetlands

Miombo Woodland

Vast stretches of miombo woodland cover much of the interior, characterized by:

• Brachystegia forests
• Open grasslands
• Seasonal wetlands
• Ancient baobab groves
• Rocky outcrops

Lakes and Wetlands

A network of lakes and wetlands includes:

• Lake Tagalala
• Lake Manze
• Lake Siwandu
• Numerous seasonal pools
• Permanent swamps

Wildlife Populations

• 120,000+ buffalo
• 15,000+ elephants
• 4,000+ lions
• Large crocodile populations
• Diverse antelope species 440+ bird species
• Rare species including:
  • African wild dogs
  • Roosevelt sable
  • Pels fishing owl
    
    

Seasonal Patterns

The park experiences distinct seasons:

• Dry Season (June-October): Concentrated wildlife
• Green Season (November-December): Spectacular birding
• Peak Floods (January-March): Boat safaris prime
• Long Rains (March-May): Limited access

Experience Highlights

Boat Safari Adventure

Gliding along the Rufiji River offers a unique perspective on African wildlife. We drifted silently past massive pods of hippos, watched elephants swimming between islands, and observed countless crocodiles basking on sandbanks. The afternoon light created perfect conditions for photographing the abundant water birds, from kingfishers to fish eagles.

Walking Safari Experience

Following ancient elephant paths through the miombo woodland revealed the intimate details of this complex ecosystem. Our armed guide pointed out fresh leopard tracks, showed us how to identify different animal droppings, and helped us understand the intricate relationships between plants and wildlife. The thrill of encountering a buffalo herd on foot reminded us we were truly in wild Africa.

Fly Camping Night

Spending a night fly camping under the African stars provided an unmatched wilderness experience. The sound of hippos grazing nearby, the distant roar of lions, and the crystal-clear Milky Way overhead created a profound connection to this pristine environment. Dawn brought the discovery of fresh leopard tracks just meters from our simple camp.