Nyerere National Park

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tanzania's Nyerere National Park depends on what you want to see and experience. Generally, the best time to visit the park is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife as they gather around water sources.

However, keep in mind that the peak season for tourism is during the dry season, and the park can get crowded during this time. If you're looking for a quieter experience and lower prices, you might consider visiting during the shoulder season, which is from November to May, excluding December to March.

It's also worth noting that Tanzania's rainy season runs from November to May, and some parts of the park can be inaccessible during this time due to flooding. However, the lush green landscape during the rainy season can be beautiful, and birdwatching is particularly good at this time.

Activities:

Nyerere National Park, formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, offers visitors a variety of activities to enjoy during their stay. Here are some of the top things to do in the park:

• Game drives: Game drives are the most popular activity in Nyerere National Park. You can explore the park's diverse landscapes and see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and more
• Walking safaris: Walking safaris are a unique way to experience the park's flora and fauna up close
• Boat safaris: The Rufiji River, which runs through the park, is home to large populations of hippos and crocodiles.
• Fly camping: For a truly immersive safari experience, you can go fly camping in the park. You'll sleep under the stars in a remote location and wake up to the sounds of the bush.
• Birdwatching: With over 440 species of birds recorded in the park, Nyerere National Park is a haven for birdwatchers.
• Fishing: The Rufiji River is also a great spot for fishing. You can try your hand at catching catfish, tigerfish, and other species.
• Cultural visits: You can visit nearby villages and learn about the local culture and way of life. You'll have a chance to meet the people who call the park's surrounding areas home and learn about their traditions and customs.
• Photography: Nyerere National Park offers incredible opportunities for photography, with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Wildlife

Nyerere National Park, formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, is one of Tanzania's largest national parks and is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Here are some of the animals you can see on a safari in the park:

• Elephants: Nyerere National Park is home to one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania. You can see herds of elephants grazing by the Rufiji River and other water sources.
• Lions: The park is also known for its large population of lions. You may be lucky enough to see these majestic predators hunting or relaxing in the shade.
• Wild dogs: Nyerere National Park has a significant population of African wild dogs, which are among the most endangered carnivores in the world.
• Hippos and crocodiles: The Rufiji River, which runs through the park, is home to large populations of hippos and crocodiles. You can take a boat safari to see these animals up close.
• Giraffes: Nyerere National Park has a substantial population of giraffes, including Masai giraffes, which are the tallest animals in the world.
• Antelopes: The park is home to a variety of antelopes, including impalas, waterbucks, bushbucks, and elands.
• Buffaloes: You can see herds of buffaloes grazing in the park's grasslands and woodlands.
• Leopards: Although they can be elusive, Nyerere National Park is also home to a healthy population of leopards.
• Hyenas: These scavengers are also present in the park and can often be heard howling at night.
• Birds: Nyerere National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 440 species of birds recorded in the park, including the rare Pel's fishing owl.
• Reptiles (such as crocodiles and snakes)