What is the difference between Nyerere and Selous?

Nyerere National Park was created in 2019 from the game-rich northern part of the former Selous Game Reserve, north of the Rufiji River, and is now a full national park run by TANAPA; the reduced Selous Game Reserve continues in the southern sectors.

What makes a safari here different?

Nyerere is famous for boat safaris on the Rufiji River, a rare experience in Tanzania, alongside walking safaris and fly-camping, all in a vast, uncrowded wilderness that feels wilder than the northern parks.

When should I visit Nyerere?

June to October is best for wildlife along the drying river; December to April is lush and excellent for birds, but heavy rains around March to May flood tracks and close many camps.

How do I get to Nyerere National Park?

Most visitors fly from Dar es Salaam to the park airstrips in under an hour, or take a road transfer of about five to six hours to the Mtemere or Matambwe gates.

Destination guide

Nyerere (Selous)

A vast wilderness of the Rufiji River's channels and lakes, Tanzania's finest boat safari and the heart of the former Selous.

What's happening

Events & festivals

June to October (annual)

Dry-season peak game viewing

As the land dries, wildlife concentrates along the Rufiji River and lakes for the best sightings of the year.

Roughly June to August (annual)

African wild dog denning

Nyerere is one of Africa's great strongholds for endangered wild dogs, which den in the dry season.

December to April (annual)

Green season & birding

The rains bring lush scenery, newborn animals and migrant birds, though many camps close during the heaviest months.

Roughly March to May (annual)

Camp closures (long rains)

Heavy rains flood tracks and many camps close, so plan safaris around the drier months.