Formerly part of the vast Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is now Tanzania’s largest protected wildlife area and one of the most untouched safari destinations in Africa. Spanning over 30,000 square kilometers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a remote, uncrowded, and breathtaking safari experience. With riverine forests, grassy plains, and winding waterways, Nyerere is a haven for nature lovers and adventurous travelers.
Nyerere National Park is incredibly diverse, both in landscape and wildlife:
Tanzania’s largest river cuts through the park, drawing animals year-round and offering boat safari experiences like nowhere else.
Home to elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, leopards, giraffes, and antelope species like sable and puku.
Nyerere is one of the best places in Africa to see endangered African wild dogs in the wild.
Over 440 bird species thrive here, from fish eagles to bee-eaters and kingfishers.
Picture-perfect savannahs, palm-studded wetlands, and miombo woodlands create stunning backdrops for safari adventures.




Nyerere offers more than classic game drives—it’s a place of variety and immersive experiences:
Cruise along the Rufiji River among hippos, crocodiles, and thirsty wildlife—ideal for sunset views and birdwatching.
Explore the vast plains in 4×4 vehicles, guided by experts who track lions, elephants, and elusive leopards.
Step into the wild with a ranger and discover the ecosystem on foot—an authentic, thrilling way to connect with nature.
Cast a line in the Rufiji River for tigerfish and catfish—perfect for angling enthusiasts.
Spend hours spotting colorful and rare bird species in riverine forests and wetlands.
Nyerere has a tropical savannah climate, generally warm and humid with distinct wet and dry seasons:
The best time for wildlife viewing. Animals gather around shrinking water sources, and vegetation is less dense. Temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).
Lush, green landscapes, migratory birds, and fewer visitors. Calving season draws predators for dramatic sightings.
Getting to this remote wilderness is easy and scenic:
Daily scheduled flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or Arusha land at Mtemere or Siwandu airstrips, directly inside the park.
A 6- to 7-hour drive from Dar es Salaam. Though long, it offers beautiful views of rural Tanzania and is perfect for adventurous travelers.
Nyerere combines well with Mikumi, Ruaha, and Zanzibar for an unforgettable Southern Circuit journey.