Africa’s Largest National Park

Nyerere National Park

Where Water, Wilderness, and Silence Meet

Size

~30,893 km² (Bigger than Rwanda)

Signature Activity

River Boat Safaris (Rufiji River)

Conservation

Premier Wild Dog Stronghold

Context

Formerly Selous Game Reserve (UNESCO)

Landscape: Water & Wilderness Intertwined

Rufiji River Basin

Tanzania’s largest river, the 600 km life artery creating oxbow lakes, palm-fringed channels, and islands.

Miombo Woodland

The dominant habitat merging with savannah, sandbanks, and acacia forests; home to sable and roan antelope.

Key Lakes & Plains

Beho Beho & Siwandu Lakes are prime wildlife zones, while Nyerere Plains are open hunting grounds.

Wildlife & Defining Activities

Megafauna & Predators

  • Lions: Estimated 3,000–4,000 individuals, one of Africa’s largest populations.
  • Wild Dogs: A premier stronghold with up to 30–50 packs roaming the vast wilderness.
  • Hippos & Crocs: Densest concentration in East Africa within the Rufiji River system.
  • Unique Antelope: Look for Puku antelope along the riverbanks—found in few other Tanzanian regions.
  • Herbivores: Massive herds of buffalo (~45,000) and elephants (~15,000).

Signature Nyerere Experience

  • Boat Safaris: The defining activity. Close encounters with hippos, crocs, and waterbirds on the Rufiji River and oxbow lakes.
  • Walking Safaris: Conducted with armed rangers, emphasizing interpretation of spoor, plants, and behavior.
  • Game Drives: Excellent predator density along the Beho Beho – Siwandu belt.
  • Fly-Camping: Seasonal, minimalist setups on sand islands for true wilderness solitude.

Conservation & Operational Notes

Access & Guiding Tips

  • Access: Fly-in is preferred (~35–45 min from Dar) to airstrips like Mtemere or Siwandu.
  • Vehicle: 4×4 essential; snorkel advised during wet months. Fuel only available at camps.
  • Health: Malaria area — prophylaxis advised. Tsetse flies are moderate.
  • Photography: Focus on water-level angles from the boat and golden light reflections off sandbanks during sunset cruises.

Significance & Best Pairings

  • Context: Named after Mwalimu Julius K. Nyerere; UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982.
  • Corridor: Hosts one of Africa’s largest connected corridors, linking to Mikumi, Udzungwa, and even Niassa (Mozambique).
  • Fun Fact: Boat safaris here are the only legal river safaris inside a Tanzanian national park.
  • Pairing 1: Ruaha National Park for the ultimate south combination (wet river world vs. dry plains).
  • Pairing 2: Mafia Island for diving and whale shark extension after the safari circuit.