National ParkNyerere National Park (Selous)
A vast southern wilderness of rivers, lions, and varied safari experiences far from the crowds.
Nyerere National Park is the largest protected area in Tanzania and a cornerstone of the southern Tanzania safari circuit. Covering over 30,000 km², it was formerly part of the Selous Game Reserve and remains one of Africa’s great wilderness areas. Its vast landscapes of rivers, floodplains, miombo woodland, and lakes provide habitat for an extraordinary range of wildlife, including the Big 5. A Nyerere safari is known for strong predator populations, with large numbers of lions, frequent encounters with wild dogs, and healthy populations of leopard and cheetah. Buffalo and elephant herds roam the floodplains, while hippos and crocodiles crowd the Rufiji River system. Beyond classic game drives, the park offers boat safaris and walking safaris, giving travellers a more varied experience than many other parks. Accommodation is intimate and often positioned in prime locations, with luxury safari camps overlooking rivers and lagoons where animals gather. The park is easily reached via flights into Mtemere Airstrip, the nearest access point to the park’s eastern entrance. From there, lodges and camps are only a short drive away, making Nyerere a convenient stop on a broader Tanzania itinerary.
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Best time to go to Nyerere National Park (Selous)
The best time to visit Nyerere National Park is during the dry season from June to October, when animals concentrate around the Rufiji River and its lakes, making game drives and boat safaris especially rewarding. Predator sightings, particularly of lions, are at their peak in these months. The green season from November to May brings lush scenery, excellent birdwatching, and fewer vehicles, though wildlife is more dispersed and some areas may be harder to reach. For travellers designing a Tanzania itinerary, the dry months are ideal for big game viewing, while the green season offers quieter, more atmospheric safaris.
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Where to stay in Nyerere National Park (Selous)
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I had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
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Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified Traveller