Overview of Nyerere National Park
Nyerere National Park protects approximately 29,276 square kilometres in southern Tanzania — gazetted in 2019 when the northern photographic zone of the historic Selous Game Reserve became a TANAPA national park honouring Julius Nyerere, Tanzania's first president. The broader Selous ecosystem has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982.
The Rufiji River — Tanzania's largest river — defines the park's character. Boat safaris, walking safaris, and fly-camping distinguish Nyerere from Northern Circuit parks where vehicle game drives dominate. Elephant, buffalo, lion, and African wild dog occur in remarkable numbers across miombo woodland and riverine forest.
Why Visit Nyerere National Park?
Rufiji boat safaris, walking trails, wild dog stronghold status, and UNESCO-scale wilderness draw travelers seeking water-based wildlife viewing and low vehicle density. Nyerere pairs naturally with Ruaha National Park on Southern Circuit fly-in routes.
Combines with Gorilla Trekking
Mountain gorillas do not live in Tanzania. Travelers wanting both river hippos and gorillas combine Nyerere safaris with Bwindi Impenetrable National Park via regional flights when permits align.
Continue planning Nyerere National Park with Nyerere National Park wildlife, Nyerere National Park bird watching, Nyerere National Park best time to visit, and Nyerere National Park getting there, or read the main Nyerere National Park destination guide.
