Nyerere National Park

Created in 2019 from the northern part of the Selous Game Reserve and named after Julius Nyerere, Tanzania's first president. The Rufiji River and its lakes and channels make boat safaris a large part of a visit.

Best time
The dry season, from June to about November, when wildlife gathers at the lakes. December to February is green, and much of the park is still accessible.

The Rufiji, Tanzania's largest river, flows through the north of the park and has left a chain of oxbow lakes on its floodplain, fringed by palms. Hippo and crocodile are numerous, and in the dry season the lakes draw wildlife in from the surrounding woodland.

The park is a stronghold of the African wild dog. Elephant, buffalo, lion, giraffe and sable also live here, and more than 430 bird species have been recorded.

Game drives, boat trips on the river and lakes, and guided walks with fly camping are all possible. Flights from Dar es Salaam take about 45 minutes, and the shortest road route from Dar es Salaam is about 240 km, through Kibiti to Mtemere Gate.

Wildlife

  • African wild dog
  • Elephant
  • Buffalo
  • Lion
  • Hippo
  • Nile crocodile
  • Giraffe
  • Sable antelope