Nyerere National Park, formerly part of the famous Selous Game Reserve, is one of Africa’s largest and most remote wildlife sanctuaries, covering over 30,000 square kilometers in southern Tanzania. Named in honor of Julius Nyerere, Tanzania’s founding president, the park is a hidden gem for travelers seeking an authentic and off the beaten path safari experience. With its vast landscapes, low visitor numbers, and abundant wildlife, Nyerere offers a sense of wilderness rarely found in more crowded parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro.
The park is home to an impressive variety of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous antelope species. It is also one of the best places in Africa to spot the elusive and endangered African wild dog, often seen hunting in packs across the open plains. The Rufiji River, which winds through the heart of the park, is a lifeline for wildlife and offers a unique opportunity for boat safaris a rare activity in Tanzania that allows visitors to view hippos, crocodiles, and birds from the water, often just meters away.
In addition to boat safaris, Nyerere is known for its walking safaris, where guests can explore the African bush on foot, guided by experienced rangers. This intimate form of wildlife viewing is ideal for those wanting to experience nature up close and learn about the park’s plants, tracks, and lesser known species. Traditional 4×4 game drives, both morning and evening, remain a highlight, with wide ranging routes that allow for exploration of savannahs, wetlands, woodlands, and open floodplains.
Birdwatching in Nyerere is exceptional, with over 440 species recorded, including colorful bee-eaters, kingfishers, fish eagles, and rare water birds. Whether you’re a birder, a photographer, or simply a nature lover, the diversity of the ecosystem will leave you amazed. Despite its incredible offerings, Nyerere sees fewer tourists than Tanzania’s northern parks, making it ideal for those looking to avoid crowds and enjoy a more private and peaceful safari.
With a mix of riverine beauty, raw wilderness, and exclusive camps and lodges, Nyerere National Park is Tanzania’s best kept safari secret, offering an unparalleled sense of space, solitude, and wild African magic.