Search

GBP (£)

GBP (£)
US DOLLARS ($)

+44 207 384 2332 Plan Your Trip

GBP (£)

GBP (£)
US DOLLARS ($)

+44 207 384 2332 Plan Your Trip

+44 207 384 2332 Plan your trip

Tanzania

Nyerere National Park

HIGHLIGHTS
GALLERY
HOTELS
GOOD TO KNOW
ENQUIRE

Why Visit Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park, one of Tanzania’s largest and most diverse protected areas, offers an exceptional safari experience in a pristine wilderness. Spanning over 30,000 square kilometres, Nyerere’s landscape of vast floodplains, dense woodlands, and the mighty Rufiji River – supports an extraordinary array of wildlife.

During the dry season, the park’s water sources become magnets for wildlife, creating spectacular opportunities to witness predator-prey interactions. Nyerere is renowned for its significant populations of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, as well as large prides of lions, elusive leopards, and packs of wild dogs. The park also hosts a variety of antelope species, including sable, roan, and the rare puku, making it a prime destination for game viewing.

In the wet season, Nyerere transforms into a lush, verdant paradise, with vibrant greenery, blooming flowers, and an influx of migratory birds. Over 440 bird species have been recorded here, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The rejuvenated rivers and wetlands provide a stunning contrast to the dry season, offering a different but equally captivating safari experience. With fewer visitors, a true sense of solitude, and exceptional wildlife sightings, Nyerere National Park is one of Tanzania’s best-kept safari secrets.

Did you know?

Nyerere National Park, established in 2019 from part of the Selous Game Reserve, spans approximately 30,893 square kilometres, making it Africa’s largest national park.

Ancient sites

Nyerere National Park, is home to several ancient archaeological sites. These sites include ancient rock paintings and artifacts that provide insights into the early human history of the region.

Highlights of Nyerere National Park

Expansive Wilderness: Nyerere National Park spans over 30,000 square kilometres, making it one of the largest protected areas in Africa. Its vast landscapes include floodplains, woodlands, and the vital Rufiji River, each supporting a rich diversity of wildlife.
Unique Boat Safaris: One of the park’s standout features is the opportunity for boat safaris on the Rufiji River. This unique experience allows visitors to get close to hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, offering a different perspective on the park’s wildlife.
Rich Biodiversity: Nyerere is home to a wide range of species, including large populations of buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and impalas. The park’s diverse habitats support an impressive array of flora and fauna, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Remote and Untouched: As one of Tanzania’s less crowded safari destinations, Nyerere offers a true sense of solitude and an authentic wilderness experience. The park’s remote location ensures that its landscapes remain largely unspoiled by mass tourism.
Birdwatching Delight: With over 440 bird species, including the African fish eagle, goliath heron, and various migratory birds, Nyerere is a paradise for birdwatchers throughout the year.
Scenic Beauty: The park’s diverse terrain, lush wetlands, and winding rivers create a picturesque backdrop for game drives and photography, offering stunning views and memorable experiences.
Seasonal Changes: Nyerere undergoes dramatic transformations throughout the year—the dry season draws animals to the river and waterholes for exceptional game viewing, while the wet season brings lush vegetation and a burst of new life.

Where to stay

Best properties in The Nyerere National Park

Nothing but the best. Browse our handpicked, tried-and-tested luxury properties.

Safari Lodge

Sand Rivers Selous, Nyerere National Park

Full Details

Gallery

Elephants spotted in Nyerere national park, Tanzania

Hippos at Sunset, Nyerere national park, Tanzania

Tower of Giraffes in Nyerere national park, Tanzania

Wild Dogs in Nyerere national park, Tanzania

Lion Cub spotted in Nyerere national park, Tanzania

White-fronted Bee-eaters in Nyerere national park, Tanzania

Good to know

Getting to the Nyerere National Park

By Air: Scheduled and chartered flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or Arusha connect to the park’s airstrips, including Mtemere and Matambwe. These flights, operated by airlines such as Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, and Safari Air Link, typically last 45 to 60 minutes and offer stunning aerial views of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes.

By Road: Travelers can embark on a 230-kilometre journey from Dar es Salaam to the park’s main gates, such as Mtemere Gate, which takes approximately five hours. The route offers scenic views of southern Tanzania, including the Uluguru Mountains and various local villages. However, the final 75 kilometres consist of a bumpy gravel road, and conditions can be challenging, especially during the rainy season, making this option best suited for experienced travellers.