Nyerere National Park (Selous Game reserve)- Self Drive Tanzania

Nyerere National Park is the largest national park in Tanzania and one of the newest that was renamed from Selous Game Reserve to Nyerere National Park. It was officially created in 2019 from part of the Selous Game Reserve in southern Tanzania. Covering more than 30,000 square kilometers, it is almost the size of Belgium or about twice the size of Serengeti National Park. This park is named after Julius Nyerere, the first president of Tanzania, who is remembered as the “Father of the Nation.” Nyerere National Park is famous for its untouched wilderness, wide landscapes, and huge variety of animals. Unlike the northern parks such as Serengeti and Ngorongoro, Nyerere is still quiet, less crowded, and perfect for travelers who want a real sense of wilderness with privacy.

Self Drive East Africa offers great Safaris to explore Nyerere National Park along side other parks within Southern Tanzania on Self Drive Road Trips with optional one way car rental services from Dar es salaam. Check on the sample Tanzania Safaris to southern Tanzania.

Location and Geography

Nyerere National Park is situated in southeastern Tanzania, encompasses parts of the Lindi, Morogoro, Pwani, and Ruvuma regions. The park is approximately 230 kilometers by road from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city, making it accessible for travelers seeking an immersive safari experience. The park’s diverse landscapes include vast savannas, dense forests, wetlands, and the meandering Rufiji River which joins saadani National Park, which serves as a vital water source for the park’s wildlife. The varied topography supports a wide range of habitats, contributing to the park’s exceptional biodiversity.

History of the Park

Selous National ParkNyerere National Park was officially established in 2019, following the rebranding of the northern portion of the Selous Game Reserve. The Selous Game Reserve, named after the British explorer Frederick Selous, was one of the largest protected areas in Africa, covering over 50,000 square kilometers. In recognition of its outstanding universal value, the Selous was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. However, in 2019, part of the reserve was re-designated as Nyerere National Park to enhance conservation efforts and promote sustainable tourism. The establishment of Nyerere National Park reflects Tanzania’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage and promoting eco-friendly tourism.

Other Near by National Parks in Tanzania include Mikumi National Park , Ruaha National Park and other forest Reserves which are open to be explored on Self Drive Tanzania Safaris

How to access Nyerere National Park

By Road

Nyerere National Park is accessible by road from several major cities in Tanzania. The most common entry point is from Dar es Salaam, which is about 250 km away and takes approximately 5–6 hours by car. The route passes through scenic countryside and small towns before reaching the park entrance. Roads are a mix of paved and gravel surfaces, and during the wet season some parts can become muddy, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. You can drive yourself with a rental car or join a guided safari tour. There are also organized transfers from Dar es Salaam or nearby towns, which include game drives and park entry. Another option is to drive from Iringa, which is about 200 km away and takes about 4–5 hours. its within the accepted destinations where self drive east Africa offers car rental services to travelers wishing to go on road trip within Southern Tanzania.

By Air

Flying is the fastest way to reach Nyerere National Park. There are small airstrips inside or close to the park, with flights available from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar. The main airstrips serving the park include Kigoma Airstrip, Kisaki Airstrip, and Siwandu Airstrip. Flights usually take about 1–1.5 hours from Dar es Salaam. Several domestic airlines operate daily flights, and many lodges and camps inside the park can arrange charter flights for guests. Once you land, lodges often provide transfers to their camps, making access smooth and comfortable. Flying is ideal for those short on time or wanting to start their safari quickly without a long road journey.

Best time to Visit the Park

Overlanding in UgandaDry Season (June to October): The dry season, from June to October, is one of the best times to visit Nyerere National Park. During this period, the weather is generally sunny, with little or no rain, making it easier to explore the park. This season offers excellent opportunities for game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching. The vegetation is less dense, so animals are more visible, and the dusty roads give the park a classic safari feel. Temperatures are moderate, and the dry conditions make travel and camping inside the park more comfortable. Photographers also prefer this season because the lighting is excellent, especially during early mornings and late afternoons. This season is perfect for visitors who want guaranteed wildlife sightings and a dry, comfortable safari experience.

Wet Season (November to May): The wet season, which runs from November to May, is another good time to visit Nyerere National Park, especially for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The rains transform the park into a lush green landscape, with rivers and floodplains full of life. This season is ideal for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive and breeding activity increases. The wet season also brings newborn animals, offering unique wildlife encounters. While some roads may become muddy, making travel a bit challenging, the park’s scenery is at its most beautiful. Boat safaris along the Rufiji River are particularly enjoyable during this season, as water levels are high and wildlife activity along the riverbanks is vibrant. Visitors who enjoy lush landscapes, abundant birdlife, and fewer crowds will find the wet season a rewarding time to explore Nyerere National Park.

Attractions of Nyerere National Park

  1. The Rufiji River and Wetlands

One of the most striking attractions of Nyerere National Park is the Rufiji River, which flows through the park and creates a rich network of wetlands, floodplains, and oxbow lakes. This river system supports a wide variety of wildlife and creates lush green landscapes that contrast beautifully with the dry savannas. Visitors can enjoy boat safaris on the Rufiji River, gliding quietly along the water while watching hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and buffaloes drinking along the banks. The river is also a haven for birdlife, making it a favourite spot for both wildlife lovers and photographers.

  1. Diverse Wildlife

Nyerere National Park is home to Tanzania’s famous Big Five lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses as well as many other species such as giraffes, zebras, impalas, wildebeests, and hippos. The park’s large size and varied ecosystems ensure that visitors have excellent chances of spotting wildlife during game drives. Experienced guides lead safaris in specially adapted vehicles, helping travellers locate animals and understand their behaviour. Early morning and late afternoon game drives are the best times to see the animals when they are most active.

  1. Rich Birdlife

Birdwatchers are drawn to Nyerere National Park because it is home to over 400 bird species. The variety of habitats wetlands, rivers, savannas, and forests supports an extraordinary diversity of birds. Visitors can spot rare species such as African skimmers, kingfishers, herons, and fish eagles, as well as migratory birds during the wet season. Birdwatching tours in the park offer the chance to learn about different species, their habits, and their unique calls, making the park a paradise for both amateur and expert birdwatchers.

  1. Scenic Landscapes

Southern Tanzania Self drive itinerariesNyerere National Park is not only about wildlife but also about breathtaking scenery. The park features vast savannas dotted with acacia trees, lush floodplains, and riverine forests along the Rufiji River. These landscapes change dramatically between the wet and dry seasons, offering a fresh experience with each visit. Photographers will find endless opportunities to capture stunning images of wildlife against spectacular backdrops, whether it is a sunrise over the savanna or hippos wallowing in the Rufiji waters.

  1. Cultural Experiences

The park is surrounded by communities such as the Zaramo and Hehe peoples, offering travellers a chance to explore cultural heritage. Many lodges and tour operators organize village visits where visitors can experience traditional dances, learn about local crafts, and understand the lifestyle of communities living alongside the park. These cultural experiences provide deeper insight into the human connection to the land and wildlife, adding richness to the safari experience.

  1. Historical Significance

Nyerere National Park contains much of the former Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This gives the park significant historical and ecological value. Parts of the reserve have been preserved for decades, maintaining large areas of untouched wilderness. Visitors can explore these historical conservation areas, understanding how Tanzania has worked to protect biodiversity while allowing sustainable tourism. This connection to Selous makes a visit to Nyerere not only a wildlife adventure but also a journey through the history of conservation in Africa.

  1. Night Safaris

Night safaris are another unique attraction of the park, allowing visitors to see nocturnal animals such as bush babies, genets, and large cats on the hunt. Guided night drives with spotlights reveal a completely different side of the park, filled with sounds and movements that are hidden during daylight hours. This makes night safaris a thrilling experience for adventure seekers.

Activities of Nyerere National Park

  1. Game Drives

Lion WatchingOne of the most popular activities in Nyerere National Park is game driving, where visitors explore the park in specially adapted safari vehicles. Game drives are the best way to see the park’s rich wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. Skilled guides lead these drives, using their expertise to locate animals and explain their behaviour’s. Early morning and late afternoon drives are ideal because animals are most active during these times, and the lighting is perfect for photography. Game drives offer an exciting and educational way to experience the park’s diverse habitats, from open savannas to riverine forests.

  1. Walking Safaris

Walking safaris offer a completely different experience compared to game drives. Led by experienced rangers, visitors explore the park on foot, following animal tracks, learning about plants, and experiencing the sights, sounds, and smells of the wilderness up close. Walking safaris provide a unique sense of connection with nature and a deeper understanding of the environment. They are a slow-paced and immersive activity, allowing travellers to observe details they might miss from a vehicle, such as insect life, bird calls, and plant species. It is both a thrilling and educational experience, ideal for those who want to feel the heartbeat of the African bush.

  1. Boat Safaris

Nyerere National Park is famous for its extensive Rufiji River system, which makes boat safaris one of the most exciting activities. Visitors can cruise along the river and floodplains in search of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Boat safaris offer a peaceful way to view wildlife, allowing guests to drift silently along the water and enjoy close encounters without disturbing animals. These safaris often take place in the early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. The boat rides also offer stunning views of the park’s lush riverine landscapes and are perfect for birdwatchers and photographers.

  1. Birdwatching

With over 400 species of birds, Nyerere National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. Birdwatching can be done during game drives, walking safaris, or boat safaris. Visitors can spot species such as African skimmers, kingfishers, herons, fish eagles, and various migratory birds. Birdwatching in the park is rewarding because of the variety of habitats, from wetlands and forests to savannas. Guides often help travellers identify birds by their appearance and calls, adding an educational layer to the experience. Birdwatching appeals to both beginners and experts and offers a tranquil way to enjoy the park.

  1. Photographic Safaris

Nyerere National Park is a dream destination for photographers. Photographic safaris focus on capturing the beauty of wildlife and landscapes in the park. The combination of abundant wildlife, scenic landscapes, and dramatic lighting makes the park a perfect place for photography. Photographers often start early in the morning or late in the afternoon to take advantage of the golden hours. Whether using professional cameras or smartphones, visitors can capture breathtaking shots of animals in action, close-ups of birds, and panoramic views of the Rufiji River and its floodplains. Photographic safaris are both creative and rewarding.

  1. Cultural Experiences

Visitors to Nyerere National Park can also enjoy cultural activities that connect them to the people living around the park. Local communities, such as the Zaramo and Hehe tribes, often welcome visitors to experience their traditions and lifestyle. These cultural visits can include traditional dances, craft demonstrations, and storytelling sessions. Visitors may also learn about how local communities live in harmony with wildlife and contribute to conservation efforts. Cultural activities add depth to a safari, allowing travellers to understand the human connection to the land and wildlife and to appreciate the park’s cultural richness.

  1. Night Safaris

Tanzania National ParkNight safaris are a unique way to experience Nyerere National Park. Guided night drives take visitors through the park after dark, when many nocturnal animals become active. With spotlights, guides reveal hidden wildlife such as bush babies, genets, and predators on the hunt. The sounds of the night, including calls of owls and other nocturnal birds, add to the mystery and excitement. Night safaris provide a different perspective of the park, allowing guests to discover wildlife and behaviours that are not seen during the day. This activity is perfect for adventure seekers who want a thrilling experience.

  1. Walking and Canoeing along the Rufiji

For a more adventurous experience, visitors can combine walking and canoeing along sections of the Rufiji River. This activity allows for a closer look at the park’s riverine ecosystems and offers a unique way to observe wildlife. Canoeing is quiet and non-intrusive, making it easier to approach animals such as hippos and crocodiles. Walking along riverbanks provides opportunities to explore smaller areas of the park in detail, with guides pointing out animal tracks, bird species, and plant life. This combined activity offers a balance of adventure and discovery.

  1. Fishing Trips

Fishing trips on the Rufiji River are another enjoyable activity in the park. The river is home to a variety of fish species, and fishing can be done with the help of local guides. These trips give visitors the chance to experience a relaxing side of the park while enjoying the scenery. Fishing is not only a leisure activity but also a way to learn about the river’s ecosystem and its role in supporting wildlife and local communities. It adds diversity to the safari experience for those who enjoy water-based activities.

Where to stay in the National Park

Inside Nyerere National Park

  1. Mdonya River Camp
  2. Kigwedeni Camp
  3. Rufiji River Camp
  4. Kisaki Tented Camp
  5. Ruaha River Lodge

Near Nyerere National Park (Lodges)

  1. Selous Serena Camp
  2. Sand Rivers Selous
  3. Beho Beho Camp
  4. Siwandu Camp

Campsites

  1. Rufiji River Campsite – Budget-friendly camping option with basic facilities.
  2. Matemwe Campsite – Offers tents and campgrounds for budget travellers.
  3. Selous Campsite – Located just outside the park, good for self-drive camping trips.