Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park is one of the newest and largest national parks in Tanzania, covering over 30,000 square kilometers of pristine wilderness. It was previously known as Selous Game Reserve but was renamed in honor of Tanzania’s first president, Julius Nyerere. The park is situated in the southern part of Tanzania and is named after one of the country’s most celebrated leaders. The park was established in 2019, making it one of Tanzania’s newest national parks. It is also one of the largest protected areas in Africa, covering an area larger than Switzerland.

Nyerere National Park is a true wilderness, with vast areas of unspoiled nature, diverse wildlife, and an incredible landscape. The park is home to the largest population of African elephants in the world, as well as a host of other wildlife, including lions, leopards, wild dogs, giraffes, zebras, and over 400 bird species. The Rufiji River, which runs through the park, is home to one of the largest crocodile and hippopotamus populations in Africa. The river is also a great spot for boat safaris and bird watching.

The park’s landscape is varied, with a mix of rolling hills, open plains, and dense forests. The park is also home to the stunning Stiegler’s Gorge, a deep canyon that provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

Things to do

Game Drives

One of the main reasons to visit Nyerere National Park is to go on a game drive. The park is home to an incredible array of wildlife, and a game drive is the best way to see them. You can either go on a guided game drive with a park ranger or hire a private vehicle and driver. The best time to go on a game drive is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the animals are most active.

Boat Safaris

A boat safari on the Rufiji River is a unique experience that you won’t want to miss. You can take a boat ride through the mangrove forests and see crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of bird species. You can also go on a multi-day boat safari, camping along the riverbanks and exploring the remote areas of the park.

Walking Safaris

Walking safaris are a great way to get up close and personal with the wildlife and the park’s stunning landscape. You can take a guided walking safari and learn about the plants and animals that call the park home. Walking safaris are available in the northern part of the park and are usually led by an armed ranger.

Fly Camping

Fly camping is a unique and adventurous way to experience the park. You can set up camp in a remote area of the park, away from the main tourist areas, and spend a night under the stars. Fly camping is usually combined with a walking safari or a game drive and is a great way to experience the wilderness of the park.

Fishing

Fishing is another activity that you can enjoy in the park. The Rufiji River is home to a variety of fish species, including the tiger fish, catfish, and tilapia. You can either fish from the riverbanks or take a boat and fish in the deeper waters.

When to visit?

The best time to visit Nyerere National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the wildlife is concentrated around the water sources, making it easier to spot them. The weather is also cooler during the dry season, making it more comfortable for game drives and other activities.

The wet season, which runs from November to May, is not the best time to visit the park. The rain can make the roads impassable, and many areas of the park are flooded, making it difficult to access certain areas. However, the wet season is a great time for bird watching, as many migratory birds come to the park during this time.

It is important to note that the park is closed during the month of April for the rainy season. It is best to plan your visit outside of this month.

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