Nyerere

Nyerere National Park, formerly part of the vast Selous Game Reserve, is today one of the most pristine safari destinations in southern Tanzania. Expansive river landscapes, palm forests and lagoons offer a safari experience far from the crowds, where elephants, lions and hippos can be seen up close.

Lion cubs in Nyerere National Park
Crocodile in the Rufiji River
Boat safari on the Rufiji River
Elephants in Nyerere National Park
Sunset over the landscape in Nyerere National Park
Monkey in Nyerere National Park
Landscape of Nyerere National Park
Rufiji River Rufiji River
June to October June to October
High price level High price level
2–4 days 2–4 days

Nyerere National Park is located in southern Tanzania and covers around 30,890 km², making it the largest national park in the country. It was established in 2019 from the northern part of the former Selous Game Reserve, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1982. Unlike the previous game reserve, the national park is now subject to stricter conservation laws.

The landscape is shaped by the mighty Rufiji River, whose many channels create lagoons, lakes, swamps and dense riverine forests. Vast savannahs, palm groves and miombo woodlands alternate and form impressive panoramas. Despite its size, Nyerere National Park remains a hidden gem for travelers seeking to experience Tanzania’s wild beauty off the beaten safari path.

animals-nyerere

Animals in Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park is a true wildlife paradise. Huge herds of elephants roam the savannahs and miombo woodlands, while lions and leopards lurk near water sources in search of prey.

The park is especially famous for African wild dogs, which have one of the largest remaining populations in Africa here. Crocodiles and hippos abound in the Rufiji River and surrounding lagoons, while buffalo, impala, giraffes, and zebras bring the open plains to life.

Over 440 bird species, including kingfishers, goliath herons, and fish eagles, make the park a fantastic destination for birdwatchers.

Highlights

  • 01

    Rufiji River

    The mighty Rufiji River winds its way through the park, creating lagoons, channels, and swamps—a vital habitat for hippos, crocodiles, and countless birds.

  • 02

    Boat Safari

    Unique in Tanzania: Boat trips on the Rufiji River offer the chance to observe wildlife from a completely new perspective.

  • 03

    African Wild Dogs

    Nyerere National Park is one of the last major strongholds for African wild dogs and offers good chances of sightings.

  • 04

    Highest Density of Hippos and Crocodiles

    The Rufiji River harbors the largest concentration of hippos and Nile crocodiles in East Africa. It’s an impressive sight to see dozens of hippos lounging in the water or Nile crocodiles basking motionless on the riverbanks.

  • 05

    Hot Springs

    Hidden hot springs bubble up from the ground in parts of Nyerere National Park, creating unique natural phenomena and adding even more intrigue to the landscape.

Activities

Game Drive

Discover lions, elephants and wild dogs on thrilling safaris.

Game drive in Nyerere National Park

Boat Safari

Observe hippos, crocodiles and birds up close from the water.

Boat safari in Nyerere National Park

Walking Safari

Explore the wilderness on foot with an experienced guide and immerse yourself in nature.

Walking safari in Nyerere National Park

Bush Dinner

Enjoy an unforgettable meal right in the heart of the wilderness.

Sundowner in Nyerere National Park

Getting There

By Car

By Car

From Dar es Salaam, it takes about 6–8 hours to reach the gates of Nyerere National Park, often via a mix of paved roads and dirt tracks.

By Plane

By Plane

Daily flights connect Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or other parks to several small airstrips within Nyerere National Park.

Are you ready for your adventure?

Whether you want to climb Kilimanjaro, get to know the Maasai and their culture, or float over the savannah in a hot air balloon, you'll find everything you need here!

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