Selous Game Reserve – whose core is now protected as Nyerere National Park – is one of the largest and wildest protected areas in Africa. Set in southern Tanzania, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 for its outstanding wildlife and vast untouched wilderness, and it offers a very different, water-based safari experience.

Wildlife

The reserve supports large populations of elephant, buffalo, hippo, crocodile, lion, leopard and one of Africa’s most important strongholds of the endangered African wild dog. Giraffe, zebra and many antelope species roam its woodlands and plains.

Boat safaris on the Rufiji River

What sets Nyerere apart is the mighty Rufiji River, whose channels, lakes and sandbanks allow superb boat safaris – gliding past hippo, crocodile and waterbirds for a relaxed, scenic alternative to game drives.