The Rufiji River
Crocodiles and hippos.
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Nyerere National Park is Tanzania's largest national park and one of the world's largest wildlife sanctuaries, at 30,893 square kilometres, about the size of Belgium. It was formerly the northern part of the Selous Game Reserve, and the great Rufiji River draws visitors to its uncrowded scenery. Its roots go back to 1896, when the German governor declared the area a hunting reserve. In 1922 it took the name of Frederick Selous, a hunter turned conservationist. In 2019 the government decided to separate the northern part as a national park to develop tourism. A hydroelectric project has also been built in the area. The Rufiji, Tanzania's largest river, runs through the park and is home to many crocodiles and hippos. Small lakes with dead trees standing in the water, low hills and sandy plains spread around it. At one of the gates the remains of an old German steam engine are on display, a curious reminder of the past. Light aircraft from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar are the usual way in, as the road is a long drive, and it is 49 km in a straight line from Mikumi. Allow at least two nights. The dry season is best, and rain can close some roads. Listen to your guide, do not walk near the water and bring mosquito repellent and neutral clothing.
Crocodiles and hippos.
Dead trees in the water.
Remains at the gate.
Southern Tanzania, the former northern Selous
Nyerere is the former northern Selous, made a national park after a 2019 decision.
Usually by light aircraft from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, as the road is long.