Park Overview

Location

Nyerere National Park is situated in southern Tanzania, approximately 219 kilometers from Dar es Salaam. The park covers an impressive area of 30,893 square kilometers, making it Africa’s largest national park and one of the world’s largest protected wildlife sanctuaries. It was formerly part of the historic Selous Game Reserve before being designated as a national park in 2019.

Tourist Attractions

Wildlife

• One of Africa’s largest populations of:
  • African elephants (over 15,000)
  • African wild dogs (approximately 1,300)
  • Lions (over 4,000)
  • Cape buffalo (over 120,000)
• Diverse bird species (over 350 recorded species)
• Large populations of hippos and crocodiles
• Rare black rhinos

Natural Features

• The mighty Rufiji River system
• Hot springs
• Large lakes and channels
• Diverse vegetation zones including:
  • Miombo woodlands
  • Grasslands
  • Riverine forests
  • Swamps

Activities

1. Game Drives
   • Traditional safari vehicles
   • Walking safaris
   • Night game drives
2. Water-based Activities
   • Boat safaris along the Rufiji River
   • Fishing expeditions
   • Bird watching cruises
3. Cultural Experiences
   • Village visits
   • Local craft demonstrations
   • Traditional dance performances

Unique Features & Fun Facts

What Makes It Special

1. Size Matters: Nyerere National Park is larger than Switzerland and is Africa’s largest national park
2. Historical Significance:
   • Named after Tanzania’s first president, Julius Nyerere
   • Previously part of Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
3. Ecological Diversity:
   • Contains one of Africa’s largest unfragmented wilderness areas
   • Home to some of the most significant wildlife populations in Africa
4. Off the Beaten Path:
   • Less crowded than northern circuit parks
   • More exclusive safari experience
   • Unique walking safari opportunities

Differences from Other Parks

• Allows walking safaris and night drives (unlike many other Tanzanian parks)
• Features boat safaris on the Rufiji River system
• Lower tourist numbers compared to Serengeti and Ngorongoro
• Combination of both land and water-based wildlife viewing

Best Time to Visit

Peak Season (June to October)

• Dry season with best wildlife viewing
• Pleasant temperatures
• Less mosquitoes
• Clear skies and good photography conditions

Green Season (November to May)

• Lower rates and fewer tourists
• Lush landscapes
• Best for bird watching
• Some roads may be impassable during heavy rains

Month-by-Month Highlights

• June-August: Perfect weather and wildlife viewing
• September-October: Peak game viewing
• November-December: Short rains and migrant birds arrive
• January-March: Green season with newborn animals
• April-May: Long rains (some camps close)

Best Accommodations

Luxury Lodges

1. Sand Rivers Selous
   • Location: On the Rufiji River
   • Features: Private plunge pools, open-fronted rooms
   • Price Range: $800-1,200 per person per night
2. Roho ya Selous
   • Location: Lake Nzerakera
   • Features: Modern luxury tented camp
   • Price Range: $700-1,000 per person per night

Mid-Range Options

1. Rufiji River Camp
   • Location: Riverbank
   • Features: Traditional safari tents
   • Price Range: $400-600 per person per night

Budget-Friendly Choices

1. Lake Manze Adventure Camp
   • Location: Lake Manze area
   • Features: Authentic bush experience
   • Price Range: $250-400 per person per night

Frequently Asked Questions