Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)
$560/Person
Explore one of Africa’s largest protected areas, the Selous Game Reserve, now part of Nyerere National Park. This vast wilderness features diverse ecosystems, from wetlands and savannas to dense forests. Spot hippos, crocodiles, and rare black rhinos while enjoying boat safaris, walking tours, or classic game drives.
Highlights
- Travel Time: 5-7 hours by road or a 1-hour flight from Dar es Salaam.
- Best Season: June to October for game viewing; November to March for birdwatching.
- Boat safaris along the Rufiji River.
- Walking safaris in the bush
- Game drives to spot elephants, hippos, and crocodiles
Selous Game Reserve
- Morning: Early morning departure by plane from Dar es Salaam to Selous (approx. 45 minutes). Upon arrival, meet your guide and begin a game drive in the reserve, known for its vast wilderness and diverse ecosystems. Spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and predators like lions and leopards.
- Midday: Enjoy a picnic lunch by the Rufiji River, the lifeline of Selous, home to crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of bird species.
- Afternoon: Optional boat safari on the Rufiji River for a chance to see aquatic wildlife up close and enjoy the serene water scenery. Conclude the day with another short game drive
- Evening: Fly back to Dar es Salaam or stay overnight at a nearby lodge.
Perfect for day-trippers from Dar es Salaam. Unique chance to combine game drives with a river safari.
Ideal For: Travelers with limited time who want a quick glimpse of the reserve’s wildlife and landscapes.
- Day 1: Arrival and Game Drive Morning: Fly or drive to Selous Game Reserve. Afternoon: Arrive at your lodge or tented camp for lunch. Head out for an afternoon game drive to explore the reserve’s open plains and woodlands. Spot elephants, buffalos, and predators like hyenas and lions. Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
- Day 2: Full-Day Safari Morning: Begin with an early morning game drive to catch wildlife at its most active. Explore deeper into the reserve, looking for rare species like wild dogs, hartebeest, and kudu. Midday: Picnic lunch in a scenic location within the park. Afternoon: Enjoy a boat safari along the Rufiji River, where you can spot crocodiles, hippos, and diverse birdlife, including fish eagles and kingfishers. Evening: Return to your lodge for a campfire dinner.
- Day 3: Walking Safari and Departure Morning: Embark on a guided walking safari to experience Selous’ wilderness on foot. Learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem, such as plants, insects, and animal tracks. Midday: Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. Afternoon: Transfer to the airstrip or begin your drive back to Dar es Salaam.
Combines game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris for a diverse experience. Great for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Ideal For: Travelers seeking a balanced exploration of Selous' wildlife and landscapes.
- Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation Afternoon: Arrive at Selous Game Reserve and check in to your lodge or camp. Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the views of the surrounding wilderness.
- Day 2: Game Drive and River Safari Morning: Full-day game drive exploring Selous’ vast landscapes, from savannahs to dense woodlands. Spot elephants, giraffes, and a variety of antelopes. Midday: Picnic lunch within the park. Afternoon: Continue your safari or opt for a boat safari on the Rufiji River. Enjoy close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner.
- Walking Safari and Village Visit Morning: Guided walking safari through the reserve’s bushland. Learn about medicinal plants, animal tracks, and the local ecosystem. Return to the lodge for breakfast. Afternoon: Visit a nearby village to interact with locals and learn about their traditional way of life, crafts, and customs. Evening: Relax at your lodge, enjoying a campfire under the stars.
- Day 4: Full-Day Exploration Morning: Full-day game drive exploring different sections of the reserve. Search for predators like lions, leopards, and African wild dogs. Midday: Picnic lunch in the reserve. Afternoon: Visit remote waterholes and observe wildlife interactions. Evening: Return to your lodge.
- Day 5: Departure Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and optional short game drive. Midday: Transfer to the airstrip or begin your drive back to Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar.
Slow-paced itinerary for a comprehensive Selous experience. Combines wildlife exploration with cultural immersion.
Ideal For: Travelers wanting an immersive, slow-paced exploration of the reserve and nearby cultural activities.
