NYERERE NATIONAL PARK
- Best Time: Dry Season: June to October
- Best Time: RainSeaon: Nov-May
Nyerere National Park, formerly part of the Selous Game Reserve, is one of Africa’s largest and most untouched wilderness areas. Covering over 30,000 square kilometers, it boasts incredible biodiversity, including lions, elephants, wild dogs, leopards, giraffes, and over 440 bird species. The mighty Rufiji River, the park’s lifeline, creates a stunning landscape of lakes, swamps, and riverine forests, making Nyerere one of the best places for an authentic safari experience away from the crowds.
Nyerere National Park experiences a tropical climate, with two main seasons:
Dry Season (June to October): Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. Days are warm (25–30°C), while nights are cooler.
Wet Season (November to May): Lush greenery and excellent birdwatching. The peak rains fall in March and April, making some areas inaccessible, but the landscape is breathtaking.
Things to Do
Game Drives – Experience morning and evening safaris to spot the Big Five and other wildlife.
Boat Safaris – Cruise the Rufiji River to see hippos, crocodiles, and birds up close.
Walking Safaris – A thrilling way to explore the park on foot with expert guides.
Birdwatching – A paradise for bird lovers, with species like fish eagles, kingfishers, and bee-eaters.
Fishing Trips – Try your luck catching catfish and tigerfish in the Rufiji River.
Cultural Tours – Visit nearby villages to learn about the local way of life.
The best time for a safari in Nyerere National Park is during the dry season from June to October, when animals congregate around water sources, and visibility is excellent. However, if you’re a birdwatcher or enjoy lush landscapes, the wet season (November to May) offers a unique and beautiful experience.
Getting to Nyerere National Park
By Air: The easiest way to reach the park is by a domestic flight from Dar es Salaam, which takes around 45 minutes. Charter flights operate from major airports like Arusha and Zanzibar.
By Road: You can drive from Dar es Salaam in 5–6 hours. Though a scenic route, the roads can be rough, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended.
Top Attractions in Nyerere National Park:
Rufiji River – Ideal for boat safaris and wildlife sightings.
Lake Tagalala – A picturesque spot with excellent birdwatching and crocodile sightings.
Beho Beho Hills – Perfect for walking safaris with panoramic views of the park.
Where to Stay:
Luxury Lodges: Sand Rivers Selous, Roho ya Selous
Mid-Range Lodges: Selous Safari Lodge, Rufiji River Camp
Budget Camps: Selous Mapumziko Lodge, Ngalawa Camp
Suggested Nyerere Np Tours
Private Tour
Mid-Range
Lodge & Tented
5/5 (2 Reviews)
- 7 Days
You Visit: Arusha/Moshi (Start), Kilimanjaro NP (End)
Private Tour
Mid-range
Lodge & Tented
5/5 (07 Reviews)
- 6 Days
You Visit: Arusha/Moshi (Start), Kilimanjaro NP (End)
Private Tour
Mid-Range
Lodge & Tented
Machame route
5/5 (8 Reviews)
- 7 Days
You Visit: Arusha/Moshi (Start), Kilimanjaro NP (End)
