Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park is the largest wildlife reserve in Africa, encompassing an area of 55,000 square kilometers, and undoubtedly, this natural wilderness is unparalleled. Located in southern Tanzania, this reserve hosts the largest population of several highly sought-after African wildlife species, including elephants, lions, wild dogs, leopards, buffalo, hippos, and crocodiles, as well as various plains game, despite being one of the least frequented wildlife sanctuaries in Africa.

Full-day wildlife drives within the reserve can be undertaken in open-sided 4WD safari vehicles in the northwestern region of the reserve. However, it is highly probable that you will not see any other safari vehicles, as this location is considerably distant from the more used game routes located in the East.
For individuals who have encountered difficulties capturing wildlife images amidst numerous safari vehicles or have trailed extensive convoys in other national parks, this particular experience in the less frequented Selous is undoubtedly gratifying.

The Selous distinguishes itself from numerous other remarkable reserves and parks in Africa because to its walking safaris and exhilarating boat safaris. These two options, uncommon in other parks, will provide a more intimate experience of the natural environment than traditional 4WD game drives. You can partake in a nocturnal game drive provided by Sable Mountain Lodge.

Aside from the immense scale of Selous, this reserve exemplifies an authentic, unspoiled African wilderness, housing one of the last remaining populations of the dwindling wild dog species.
The optimal time to visit the Selous Game Reserve is from June to October and from December to March. The Short Rains often occur in November, but the Long Rains commence in early April and last until late May.

Scheduled flights to Selous are typically discontinued from the end of March to the beginning of June.

Due to the significantly enhanced road infrastructure at the Matambwe headquarters, the primary route connecting the Matambwe and Mtemere gates is deemed traversable throughout the year.
Air services are available from Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar to Matambwe airfield, followed by a complimentary 30-minute vehicle transport to your accommodation.

Nevertheless, the most economical and expedient choice is to take the train from Dar es Salaam to Selous, followed by a flight to Zanzibar, so circumventing the need to return to Dar es Salaam for a further trip or to utilize the ferry.
The tour, lasting around 6 hours, traverses the stunning landscape and provides glimpses of the remarkable rural lifestyle of the Tanzanian populace. Wildlife will also be observable en route to the park.

Directions to Nyerere National Park, Tanzania

Nyerere is situated in the southern region of the country and, despite its distant location, it is among the select parks that merit inclusion on your itinerary when visiting Tanzania. The designation Nyerere has recently been altered, and the largest game reserve in Tanzania and the African continent is now referred to as Nyerere National Park.

The Park may not possess the renown of other National Parks in Tanzania’s Northern Circuit, nevertheless it harbors a considerable array of wildlife that merits the lengthy journey south for observation. There are several methods to reach Nyerere: one may drive from Dar es Salaam, utilize the railway, or employ a chartered aircraft. Regardless of the chosen mode of transportation, a knowledgeable tour guide will ensure your safe arrival at the National Park, allowing sufficient time to appreciate its offerings.

Railway system

The railway system is the most economical form of transportation to reach Nyerere National Park. The Tanzania Zambia Railway (TAZARA) will transport you to the Reserve, with a journey duration of approximately 4 to 5 hours. The railway journey will commence in Dar es Salaam and conclude at Matabwe, where you will disembark before transferring to a van that will transport you to Selous. The train will transport you through the stunning vistas of southern Tanzania, with mountains and several communities, allowing you to appreciate the picturesque surroundings.

Road transport

Road travel is the predominant mode utilized by tourists visiting Nyerere National Park. There are limited routes available for a driving safari to the park, all commencing in Dar es Salaam. This is a delightful experience that allows you to view the scenery of southern Tanzania, including the Ulugulu Mountains, while driving through the region. One may also pause at other villages en route to capture photographs and sample local cuisine before resuming the journey.

The primary route is from Dar es Salaam via Mikumi National Park to the Matambwe gate, serving as the principal access to the Reserve. Upon arrival at the gate, a little wait will precede your exploration of Nyerere National Park.

Numerous unconventional routes offer scenic enjoyment, one of which traverses Morogoro, providing a clear vista of the mountain slopes and surrounding towns. While driving, one may encounter wild animals crossing the road. This approach is optimal for those integrating their safari to Nyerere with other national parks located on the southern circuit. The journey will commence in Dar es Salaam, proceeding through the cities of Mkuyuni and Kisaki, then to Morogoro, ultimately arriving at the Matambwe gate, which provides access to the Game Reserve.

The alternative route commences in Dar es Salaam, traversing Mloka and Kibiti, ultimately arriving at the Mtemere gate, which provides access to Nyerere National Park. This path will require approximately 7 hours to reach the Reserve. We suggest Self Drive Tanzania for your road vacations.

Air transport

Air transport is the most convenient and costly method to reach Nyerere National Park. Numerous flights are presently available for travel to the Reserve, which may be conveniently arranged at various airports throughout Tanzania. The most expedient airport is Julius Nyerere International Airport, while access is also available from Arusha and Zanzibar. These planes arrive at various airstrips adjacent to the Park, where a van will be available to transport you into the national Park.

Activities in Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park, previously referred to as the Selous Game Reserve, is located in the southern circuit of Tanzania and serves as an excellent safari destination for those who like to avoid crowds.

A variety of activities are available in Nyerere, including wildlife drives, birdwatching, cultural tours, fishing, and walking safaris. All activities at Nyerere are conducted with the assistance of a tour guide, and the following details have been enumerated to facilitate your prioritization.

Bird watching expedition

A birdwatching tour at Nyerere National Park is a compelling activity to undertake while in Tanzania. Nyerere National Park is home to about 400 bird species inhabiting various natural environments, including lagoons, the Rufiji River, wetlands, and the park’s flora. An adept tour guide proficient in avian identification will accompany you during the birding safari. Notable bird species to observe include palm-nut vultures, African fish skimmers, pink-backed pelicans, yellow-billed storks, African fish eagles, white-crowned spur-winged plovers, hornbills, and white-fronted bee-eaters, among others. The optimal period for a birding expedition in Nyerere occurs during the wet season, which spans from November to April.

Nyerere Safari Excursions

This is among the most eagerly awaited activities for any tourist visiting Nyerere National Park. Nyerere is the largest reserve in the country; although it is less renowned than its rivals in the Northern circuit, it boasts a substantial population of wildlife seen during game drives. An open-roof van will be supplied for optimal animal observation, accompanied by a knowledgeable tour guide to navigate the Park. Nyerere is home to several wildlife, including wild dogs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, black rhinos, hippos, buffalo, kudus, hyenas, impalas, and waterbucks, among others. The optimal period for game drives occurs throughout the dry season (June to October), with the most favorable times being in the morning before 11 AM and in the afternoon around 3 PM, when temperatures remain manageable. The National Park undergoes two distinct seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The seasons dictate the activities permissible in Nyerere, as each season is associated with specific undertakings; activities suitable for the wet season may not be feasible during the dry season, and vice versa.

Nyerere boat Excursion

Nyerere is among the limited national parks in the country that may be traversed by both boat and vehicle. The River Rufiji is a primary route for boat riding, however alternative smaller rivers are also available. A boat excursion on the River Rufiji will provide an excellent vantage point of the fauna and avifauna within Nyerere Park. Ensure that you are wearing life jackets and adhere to all instructions provided by the tour guide.

Fishing

A fishing safari in Nyerere offers an ideal opportunity for relaxation during a Selous safari. Fishing predominantly occurs in the Rufiji River, although smaller channels and marshes within the National Park are also viable locations for this pastime. Spot fishing in Nyerere typically involves the practice of returning all taken fish to the water, and the presence of a tour guide enhances the value of your experience. Fishing equipment will be available for a nominal price, and with your fishing rod, bait, and life jacket, you will be prepared to commence your fishing trip at Nyerere National Park.

Walking safari

A walking safari in Nyerere is conducted in unconventional paths where the majority of dangerous animals are absent. It is typically scheduled in the morning and late afternoon during the dry season, as the temperatures are more tolerable at these times. The tour guide will provide you with guidelines to ensure your safety. A security ranger will accompany you for protection, and you will observe many creatures, including elephants, hippos, and zebras.

Hot air balloon excursions

Participate in a hot air balloon excursion in Nyerere to observe wildlife from an alternative perspective. Only two national parks provide hot air balloon rides: Serengeti National Park on the Northern Circuit and Nyerere National Park in the Southern Circuit. The hot air balloon excursion occurs at dawn in Nyerere, providing views of wildlife, avifauna, terrain, and the sunrise from an aerial perspective.

Photographic safaris

Photo safaris in Nyerere often occur in the northern region of the national park. To fully appreciate a photo safari here, you will require many essentials. With your cameras prepared, you will capture images of wildlife, the scenery, and the avifauna present in the National Park.