Wild Rivers and Endless Wilderness
Best for
Boat safaris, fishing, wilderness, birding
Best time
June – October (dry season)
Wildlife
Elephant, lion, wild dog, hippo, crocodile, sable, kudu, buffalo and 440+ birds
Location
South-eastern Tanzania, along the Rufiji River
Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) is Africa's largest protected area. Defined by the mighty Rufiji River, this remote wilderness offers boat safaris, world-class fishing, diverse wildlife and unspoiled landscapes far from the crowds.
Dramatic landscapes shaped by the Rufiji River, from open grasslands and miombo woodlands to riverine forests, palm thickets and rugged gorges. Endless horizons and spectacular sunsets set the tone for unforgettable journeys.
Open grassland, miombo woodland, riverine forest, palm thickets and rugged gorges.
Large elephant herds, prides of lion, wild dog, leopard, hippo and Nile crocodile.
Boat safaris, game drives, walking safaris, sport fishing and birdwatching.
On the ground
Lifeblood of the park, supporting rich wildlife and scenic boat safaris.
Dramatic landscapes and lookouts with panoramic views.
Seasonal floodplains and miombo woodland attract diverse wildlife.
Important corridors connect Nyerere to surrounding ecosystems.
Boat safaris
A unique perspective on wildlife along the river.
Game drives
Classic drives across floodplains and woodland.
Walking safaris
Explore on foot with an experienced armed guide.
Sport fishing
World-class fishing on the Rufiji (permit required).
Birdwatching
Over 440 species including kingfishers and bee-eaters.
Cultural visits
Insight into local life and traditions in nearby communities.
Wildlife you can expect
Elephant — Large herds along the river and floodplains.
Lion — Strong prides across the open country.
African wild dog — One of the continent's key strongholds.
Hippo & crocodile — Abundant along the Rufiji and its lakes.
Sable & kudu — Miombo woodland antelope at their best.
Birdlife — Over 440 species, including raptors and kingfishers.
Where to stay
A few of the properties we book here. Tell us how you like to travel and we will match the camp to the journey.
“In Nyerere, the real luxury is freedom — to boat, walk, drive and explore without crowds. We choose the camp according to how much privacy and activity variety the client wants, not simply the room standard.”
Our View
Out2Safari Safari Expert
Combine your safari with a boat trip on the Rufiji and a visit to Stiegler's Gorge for breathtaking views. Don't forget binoculars for the birdlife.
Best for wildlife viewing, boat safaris and fishing as water levels drop.
Lush landscapes, dramatic skies and excellent birding.
From $14,635 PPSTanzania
From $15,000 PPSTanzania
From $12,000 PPSTanzania
From $10,105 PPSTanzania
Tell us what excites you
Our safari designers will build a tailor-made journey around it — the right camp, the right season and the right pace.