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Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

Africa’s Last Great Wilderness

In the heart of southern Tanzania lies a sprawling wilderness that pulses with life, mystery, and untamed beauty — the Selous Game Reserve, now part of the recently gazetted Nyerere National Park. This vast, UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the largest protected areas in Africa, covering an area larger than Switzerland. Unlike the busier parks of northern Tanzania, Selous (pronounced "Seloo") offers a raw, uncrowded safari experience, steeped in rich biodiversity and ecological importance.

This article explores the history, geography, wildlife, ecosystems, tourism, and conservation of this extraordinary wilderness.

History and Background

Origins and Naming:

  • Established in 1922, the Selous Game Reserve was named after Frederick Courteney Selous, a British explorer, hunter, and conservationist who died in the area during World War I.

  • In 2019, the northern section of Selous (around 30% of the reserve) was officially upgraded and renamed Nyerere National Park, in honor of Julius Nyerere, Tanzania’s founding president and a pioneer of African conservation.

World Heritage Status:

  • Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 due to its size, ecological integrity, and exceptional wildlife.

Today, Selous (or Nyerere NP in its northern region) remains one of the least disturbed ecosystems in Africa, a rare sanctuary where elephants roam, predators hunt undisturbed, and rivers flow free.

Geography and Landscape

  • Total Area: Approximately 50,000 square kilometers

  • Location: Southeastern Tanzania, spanning across parts of the Morogoro, Lindi, and Ruvuma regions

  • Main Rivers: The Rufiji River, Tanzania’s largest, is the lifeblood of the reserve

Key Features:

  • Rufiji River Delta: A maze of channels, oxbow lakes, and swamps that support exceptional aquatic biodiversity.

  • Miombo Woodlands: Open forests and grassy plains dominate much of the landscape.

  • Hot Springs and Hills: Scenic features such as Beho Beho hills and Maji Moto hot springs offer unique geological charm.

The diversity of habitats makes Selous an ecological microcosm — from savannah to wetlands, forest to riverine environments.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Selous boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, and yet its low tourist density means it retains a true wilderness atmosphere.

Mammals:

  • African Elephant: Once home to over 100,000, numbers declined due to poaching but are now stabilizing.

  • Lions: Selous has one of the largest lion populations in Africa.

  • African Wild Dogs: A flagship species — Selous is one of the last strongholds for these endangered carnivores.

  • Leopards, Hyenas, Buffalo, Hippos, and Crocodiles

  • Antelope species: Sable, Roan, Kudu, Eland, Impala, and more.

Birdlife:

With over 440 bird species, Selous is a paradise for ornithologists:

  • African fish eagle

  • Pel’s fishing owl

  • Carmine bee-eaters

  • Yellow-billed storks

  • Saddle-billed storks

  • Kingfishers, herons, and hornbills

Reptiles and Aquatic Life:

  • Crocodiles and hippos are abundant along the Rufiji.

  • The river supports a rich variety of fish, which also sustains local human populations.

Safari Experiences in Selous/Nyerere

What makes Selous unique is the diversity of safari styles available:

1. Game Drives

  • Classic vehicle safaris through vast open plains, especially in the northern Nyerere NP zone.

  • Sightings of lions, elephants, giraffes, and wild dogs are frequent.

2. Boat Safaris

  • A highlight of any Selous visit.

  • Glide along the Rufiji River watching hippos yawn, crocs bask, and elephants bathe.

  • Ideal for birdwatching and sunset photography.

3. Walking Safaris

  • Guided by armed rangers and naturalists.

  • Explore the bush on foot and learn about tracks, plants, and small mammals.

  • Offers a primal and immersive experience — perfect for adventurous travelers.

4. Fly Camping

  • A luxury bush experience where you sleep under the stars in temporary mobile tents.

  • Combines walking safaris with wilderness solitude.

5. Fishing Safaris

  • Available on the Rufiji and its tributaries.

  • Offers the chance to catch catfish and tigerfish — popular with angling enthusiasts.

How to Get There

  • By Air: Daily flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Arusha, and other Tanzanian parks (1–2 hours).

  • By Road: Approximately 6–8 hours drive from Dar es Salaam (best in dry season).

  • By Rail: TAZARA railway stops at Matambwe and Kisaki, providing an adventurous travel option.

Because of its accessibility from Dar es Salaam, Selous/Nyerere is ideal for short safaris or weekend getaways, especially when paired with a beach extension.

When to Visit

Dry Season (June to October)

  • Best for game viewing; animals congregate around rivers and waterholes.

  • Roads are in better condition.

Wet Season (November to May)

  • Lush landscapes and great for birding.

  • Some camps may close due to impassable roads and heavy rains.

Conservation Challenges and Efforts

Selous has faced a number of conservation challenges over the years, including:

  • Elephant poaching: Tens of thousands were lost in the early 2000s, but anti-poaching efforts have intensified.

  • Hydropower Development: The Stiegler’s Gorge Dam project on the Rufiji River has drawn international concern due to potential environmental impacts.

  • Human Encroachment: Pressure from surrounding communities threatens habitats.

However, the upgrade to national park status (Nyerere National Park) and increased government investment in tourism and protection are seen as positive steps. Community-based conservation programs are also gaining traction, involving locals in eco-tourism and wildlife monitoring.

Why Selous/Nyerere Stands Out

  • Untamed Wilderness: One of the few places where you can feel truly alone in the African bush.

  • Diverse Safari Activities: Boat, walking, and classic drives all in one place.

  • Massive Size: Its sheer scale means animals are less habituated, and sightings feel more natural.

  • Rich Ecosystems: A variety of habitats support a stunning diversity of life.

  • Cultural and Historical Depth: The legacy of explorers and conservation pioneers is felt throughout the park.

Conclusion: The Soul of Wild Africa

The Selous Game Reserve — now Nyerere National Park — is a place of grand scale and raw beauty. It offers a more adventurous, authentic safari experience than many of its northern counterparts. Here, nature reigns supreme. You can follow lion tracks in the dust, listen to the cries of fish eagles, and feel the rhythm of an ancient landscape unchanged by time.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari-goer, Selous invites you to rediscover the magic of wild Africa — untouched, untamed, and unforgettable.