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Nyerere (Selous) National Park

Nyerere (Selous) NP

Overview

Wildlife

Birds

Best Time To Visit

Weather & Climate

Getting There

Malaria & Safety

Overview – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Nyerere National Park, formerly the Selous Game Reserve, is Tanzania’s largest national park. It is characterized by the majestic Rufiji River and interconnected lakes, which sustain a diverse ecosystem. The park is home to abundant crocodiles, hippos, elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife. Early morning game drives offer prime opportunities to observe lion activity up close.
nyerere selous (4)
Best Time To Go
June to October offers the easiest wildlife viewing.
High Season
From June to October, expect crowds in the main tourist area.
Size
30,893km² / 11,928mi²
Altitude
40-1,317m / 131-4,321ft
Pros & Cons
Premier wildlife observation opportunities during the Dry season
You can opt for walking and boat safaris as additional adventure options.
A fantastic array of mid-range and luxurious lodges awaits you, offering unparalleled comfort and service.
Nature's Snapshot: Compact Wildlife Viewing Circuit
Wildlife Wanderlust: Scattered Scenes in the Rainy Season
Buzz in the North: Day Visitors Flock to the Park's Northern Sector
Wildlife
While Nyerere National Park may not boast the same breadth of wildlife as Ruaha or Serengeti National Parks, visitors can still anticipate remarkable sightings. Large herds of buffalo and elephant frequent the area, alongside the prevalent presence of Masai giraffes. The park is teeming with impalas, and the majestic spiral horns of greater kudus are a common sight. Nyerere serves as a vital habitat for the rare sable antelope, and one of its primary draws is the opportunity to encounter wild dogs, adding a thrilling dimension to any safari experience.
Scenery
Nyerere National Park holds significant importance within the vast Greater Selous-Niassa ecosystem, spanning an impressive 155,000km²/60,000mi². The park’s primary habitat consists of dense miombo woodland, but the main wildlife-viewing route traverses along a series of five interconnected lakes nourished by the Rufiji River, one of Africa’s major waterways. During the Dry season, these palm-fringed channels become bustling hubs of wildlife activity, while the sandbanks serve as permanent residences for formidable crocodiles, enhancing the park’s allure for visitors.
Weather & Climate
Due to its equatorial positioning, Nyerere National Park maintains relatively consistent temperatures year-round. The climate is typically hot and humid, with the Dry season (June to October) offering slightly cooler conditions compared to the Wet season (November to May).
Best Time To Visit
The optimal time for a journey to Nyerere is during the Dry season, which spans from June to October. During this period, wildlife congregates around the Rufiji River and its adjacent wetlands, and the sparse vegetation allows for clearer views of the wildlife. However, if you plan to visit during the wetter months, keep in mind that many lodges shut down from April to May.
Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
​Wildlife & Animals – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Nyerere National Park, formerly known as the Selous Game Reserve, provides exceptional opportunities for wildlife observation. Along the primary circuit, a series of lakes serve as prime spots for witnessing sizable gatherings of giraffes, alongside buffalo, waterbuck, impala, and plains zebra. In some instances, hungry lions lurk nearby, seizing the chance for prey as animals come to drink, offering the possibility of witnessing a daytime hunt.

Hippo
Buffalo
Zebra
Wildebeest
Black Rhino
Lion
Leopard
Cheetah
Hyena
Wild Dog
Giraffe
Elephant
Wildlife Highlights

Nyerere National Park is a sanctuary for wild dogs, which are critically endangered. These remarkable creatures roam across vast territories, with the greatest opportunity to spot them arising when they establish dens in the vicinity. Additionally, the park hosts a diverse array of antelope species. Keep an eye out for common waterbuck, greater kudu, and eland. While the majestic sable antelope is among the park’s flagship species, sightings are sporadic due to their preference for dense bush habitats.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

The Dry season, stretching from June to October stands out as the prime period for wildlife observation in the park. With thinner vegetation and animals congregating around the Rufiji River and the lakes, spotting wildlife becomes notably easier during this time. However, heavy rainfall renders roads impassable, leading to the closure of most camps towards the conclusion of the Wet season in April. These camps typically reopen at the onset of June. For those keen on encountering wild dogs, the optimal time is during their denning season from June to August.

Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
Wildlife Photos
nyerere selous (13)
​Birds – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Nyerere National Park, previously known as the Selous Game Reserve, stands as a remarkable destination for bird enthusiasts, boasting a record of over 440 species. The park’s prominent avian residents are drawn to the sandbanks, lagoons, islands, and channels lining the Rufiji River. A boat safari offers an ideal opportunity to appreciate the diverse birdlife, with sightings including yellow-billed storks, kingfishers, lapwings, and vibrant bee-eaters. During dawn and dusk, flocks of African skimmers gracefully skim the water’s surface in search of fish. Keep an eye out for African fish eagles and palm-nut vultures perched atop trees. Migratory birds grace the park from November to April, adding to its avian splendor.

Notable Birds in Nyerere (Selous) NP

African fish eagle
common
White-fronted bee-eater
common
Black-winged stilt
common
Spur-winged lapwing
common
Collared palm-thrush
common
Best Time for Bird Watching

Nyerere serves as an excellent birding destination throughout the year. From November to April, the presence of Palearctic and intra-African migrants enhances the birdwatching experience, making this period particularly rewarding. It is also during this time that resident birds engage in nesting activities, showcasing their vibrant breeding plumage. However, it’s worth noting that most camps close towards the conclusion of the Wet season in April and reopen in June. For optimal wildlife viewing, the Dry season, spanning from June to October, is the preferred time to visit.

Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
Facts & Figures

Bird Species

450+

Migratory Birds

Nov to Apr

Best Time To Visit – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

The optimal time for wildlife viewing in Nyerere National Park, previously known as the Selous Game Reserve, is during the Dry season from June to October. As the vegetation thins out, spotting wildlife becomes more manageable, and animals congregate around the Rufiji River, along with its lakes and lagoons. Conversely, the Wet season from November to May brings lush, green scenery, but afternoons can become uncomfortably hot. It’s essential to note that numerous lodges close their doors from April to May during this period.
Best Time
Between June and October is the optimal period for observing wildlife.
High Season
Between June and October, the area around the Rufiji River becomes busy with tourists.
Low Season
During March, April, and May, numerous lodges are shut, particularly from April to May.
Best Weather
From June to October, there is minimal to no rainfall.
Worst Weather
March and April mark the peak of the wet season.
June to October – Dry Season
Water's Edge Wildlife: Simplified Spotting Amid Sparse Greenery
Sunny Skies: Rare Rainfall and Abundant Sunshine
Balmy Breeze: Moderate Humidity and Gentle Heat
Dry and Dusty Days
The primary tourist zone experiences significant crowds.
November to May – Wet Season
The landscape displays stunning greenery.
March to May marks the low season, potentially offering discounted prices.
Superb birdwatching opportunities abound, especially with migratory birds gracing the skies from November to April.
Certain game-drive trails may become muddy and challenging to navigate.
Wildlife sightings are not as abundant as during the Dry season.
Many lodges typically close their doors from April to May.
The weather tends to be hot and humid.
Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
Wildlife Photos
nyerere selous (13)
Weather & Climate – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Nyerere National Park, formerly known as the Selous Game Reserve, experiences a warm to hot and humid climate. Due to its proximity to the equator, temperatures remain relatively stable throughout the year. The period from October to April is characterized by intense heat, while temperatures moderate slightly from June to August. The Wet season spans from November to May, during which heavy rainfall is common. It’s worth noting that numerous lodges close their operations from April to May.
Dry Season – June to October

During the Dry season, abundant sunshine graces most days. Afternoons typically reach temperatures of approximately 29°C/84°F, while nights cool down to around 18°C/64°F.

 

From June to September, rainfall is rare, and the skies remain clear albeit dusty. Early morning game drives may feel chilly due to the cooler temperatures.

By October, the first signs of the Wet season may emerge, with the possibility of rainfall. As the dust settles, the anticipated rains offer relief after an extended period of dry weather.

Wet Season – November to May

During the Wet season, the climate is characterized by warmth and humidity, with afternoon temperatures typically hovering around 31°C/88°F, cooling to approximately 21°C/70°F at night.

 

In November, the Wet season commences, although the precise onset can be challenging to predict. Rainfall tends to be sporadic and brief, often occurring in the afternoons and unlikely to significantly impact your safari experience.

 

As January and February progress, the rainy season intensifies, with several days featuring short bursts of rain, primarily in the afternoons. Daytime temperatures remain close to 31°C/88°F, while nights and early mornings average around 21°C/70°F.

 

March and April mark the peak of the Wet season, with rainfall occurring most days, although typically not continuously. Maximum temperatures typically reach around 30°C/86°F, while minimum temperatures hover around 20°C/68°F.

Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
Nyerere (Selous) National Park
Nyerere (Selous) NP Photos
nyerere selous (4)
​Getting There – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam serves as the primary gateway to the country and Nyerere National Park. As part of our package for Nyerere National Park, we arrange pick-up and transfer either by air or land, ensuring seamless travel arrangements for your convenience.

 

While many travelers opt for flights to Nyerere National Park, a road safari presents an equally rewarding option. The approximately 230km/143mi journey from Dar es Salaam to Mtemere Gate typically takes around 5 hours*.

*Please note that driving times serve as rough estimates, and it’s advisable to consider the possibility of significant delays.
Main Park Map
getting to nyerere map bush2city
Airlines & Ticket Prices

We offer convenient flight booking services to Tanzania at great rates. Alternatively, you can arrange your flights. Either way, we’ll take care of your accommodations and itinerary.

 

There are two direct flight options from Europe to Tanzania. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines operates daily flights from Amsterdam to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro, while Turkish Airlines offers daily flights from Istanbul to the same destinations. These are convenient choices for travelers seeking direct routes.

 

Alternatively, you can fly to Nairobi, the key air travel hub in East Africa, and connect to Tanzania with Kenya Airways, which provides daily flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar. European airlines offering flights to Nairobi include British Airways from London Heathrow, Air France from Paris, Swiss Air from Zurich, Brussels Airlines from Brussels, Lufthansa from Frankfurt, and Kenya Airways from London Heathrow or Amsterdam. Many travelers favor Kenya Airways for its efficient overnight service from London to Nairobi, with a convenient connection to Dar es Salaam arriving around 9:00 AM.

 

Additional connection options for those flying directly into Dar es Salaam include Egypt Air via Cairo, Emirates via Dubai, Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi, Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa, Oman Air via Muscat, and Qatar Airways via Doha. Several airlines also operate flights to Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar, providing flexibility for your Tanzanian safari adventure.

 

Getting to Tanzania: Simplified Guide 

 

From North America:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from North America. Travelers typically make one stop in Istanbul (via Turkish Airlines) or Amsterdam (via KLM). Turkish Airlines connects 13 North American cities to Tanzania through Istanbul, while KLM offers connections from many U.S. and Canadian cities via Amsterdam. For example, the journey from New York to Dar es Salaam with KLM takes about 21 hours, while flights from Los Angeles take only slightly longer.

Another option is flying directly to Johannesburg with Delta Air Lines (from Atlanta) or South African Airways (from New York or Washington). After an overnight stay, you can take a short 3.5-hour flight to Dar es Salaam.

 

From South America:

The quickest route from South America is with South African Airways, flying directly from SĂ£o Paulo to Johannesburg and then connecting to Dar es Salaam. This journey takes about 15 hours. Other options include connections via Europe or the Middle East with airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, KLM, or Turkish Airlines.

 

From Asia:

Kenya Airways connects directly to Tanzania from Bangkok, Hanoi, and Mumbai, with onward flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar. Alternatively, most travelers fly through Middle Eastern hubs with airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, Oman Air, or Qatar Airways.

 

From Australasia:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from Australasia. The best option is with South African Airways, flying from Perth to Dar es Salaam via Johannesburg in about 20 hours. Alternatively, you can connect through the Middle East with Emirates, Etihad Airways, or Qatar Airways.

Domestic Flights

Nyerere National Park benefits from daily scheduled flights departing from both Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. Additionally, flights from Arusha town, serving as the base for the Northern safari circuit, are readily available. The following airlines offer services to Nyerere National Park:

Passport, Visa & Other Entry Requirements

For detailed information regarding passport, visa, vaccination, and other entry requirements, we encourage you to visit our FAQ – Tanzania page. This resource will provide comprehensive guidance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry process.

Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
​Malaria & Safety – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Safety

In our assessment, traveling within Nyerere National Park, previously known as the Selous Game Reserve, is safe. Crime targeting visitors is uncommon in Tanzania, with any incidents typically occurring in major urban areas, mirroring global trends. While exploring cities during your journey, it’s advisable to exercise standard safety measures, as outlined in our ‘Cities & Urban Areas: Safety Precautions’ section. Additionally, during organized safaris, your guide will prioritize your safety and well-being.

Malaria & Vaccinations

Malaria poses a risk in Nyerere National Park. To safeguard yourself, it’s advisable to wear long trousers and closed shoes during the evening hours. Additionally, apply mosquito repellent, with formulations containing DEET being the most effective. Taking antimalarial medication is also recommended. Before traveling, consider receiving several vaccinations, which can be administered by your local travel clinic or doctor. These precautions are essential for ensuring a safe and healthy journey.

Wildlife Viewing

Adhering to the guidance provided by your experienced guide is crucial to ensuring your safety during wildlife viewing activities. Serious incidents during organized safaris are infrequent. Additionally, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ outlined below for further guidance and precautions.

Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
Overview – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Nyerere National Park, formerly the Selous Game Reserve, is Tanzania’s largest national park. It is characterized by the majestic Rufiji River and interconnected lakes, which sustain a diverse ecosystem. The park is home to abundant crocodiles, hippos, elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife. Early morning game drives offer prime opportunities to observe lion activity up close.
nyerere selous (4)
Best Time To Go
June to October offers the easiest wildlife viewing.
High Season
From June to October, expect crowds in the main tourist area.
Size
30,893km² / 11,928mi²
Altitude
40-1,317m / 131-4,321ft
Pros & Cons
Premier wildlife observation opportunities during the Dry season
You can opt for walking and boat safaris as additional adventure options.
A fantastic array of mid-range and luxurious lodges awaits you, offering unparalleled comfort and service.
Nature's Snapshot: Compact Wildlife Viewing Circuit
Wildlife Wanderlust: Scattered Scenes in the Rainy Season
Buzz in the North: Day Visitors Flock to the Park's Northern Sector
Wildlife
While Nyerere National Park may not boast the same breadth of wildlife as Ruaha or Serengeti National Parks, visitors can still anticipate remarkable sightings. Large herds of buffalo and elephant frequent the area, alongside the prevalent presence of Masai giraffes. The park is teeming with impalas, and the majestic spiral horns of greater kudus are a common sight. Nyerere serves as a vital habitat for the rare sable antelope, and one of its primary draws is the opportunity to encounter wild dogs, adding a thrilling dimension to any safari experience.
Scenery
Nyerere National Park holds significant importance within the vast Greater Selous-Niassa ecosystem, spanning an impressive 155,000km²/60,000mi². The park’s primary habitat consists of dense miombo woodland, but the main wildlife-viewing route traverses along a series of five interconnected lakes nourished by the Rufiji River, one of Africa’s major waterways. During the Dry season, these palm-fringed channels become bustling hubs of wildlife activity, while the sandbanks serve as permanent residences for formidable crocodiles, enhancing the park’s allure for visitors.
Weather & Climate
Due to its equatorial positioning, Nyerere National Park maintains relatively consistent temperatures year-round. The climate is typically hot and humid, with the Dry season (June to October) offering slightly cooler conditions compared to the Wet season (November to May).
Best Time To Visit
The optimal time for a journey to Nyerere is during the Dry season, which spans from June to October. During this period, wildlife congregates around the Rufiji River and its adjacent wetlands, and the sparse vegetation allows for clearer views of the wildlife. However, if you plan to visit during the wetter months, keep in mind that many lodges shut down from April to May.
Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
​Wildlife & Animals – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Nyerere National Park, formerly known as the Selous Game Reserve, provides exceptional opportunities for wildlife observation. Along the primary circuit, a series of lakes serve as prime spots for witnessing sizable gatherings of giraffes, alongside buffalo, waterbuck, impala, and plains zebra. In some instances, hungry lions lurk nearby, seizing the chance for prey as animals come to drink, offering the possibility of witnessing a daytime hunt.

Hippo
Buffalo
Zebra
Wildebeest
Black Rhino
Lion
Leopard
Cheetah
Hyena
Wild Dog
Giraffe
Elephant
Wildlife Highlights

Nyerere National Park is a sanctuary for wild dogs, which are critically endangered. These remarkable creatures roam across vast territories, with the greatest opportunity to spot them arising when they establish dens in the vicinity. Additionally, the park hosts a diverse array of antelope species. Keep an eye out for common waterbuck, greater kudu, and eland. While the majestic sable antelope is among the park’s flagship species, sightings are sporadic due to their preference for dense bush habitats.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

The Dry season, stretching from June to October stands out as the prime period for wildlife observation in the park. With thinner vegetation and animals congregating around the Rufiji River and the lakes, spotting wildlife becomes notably easier during this time. However, heavy rainfall renders roads impassable, leading to the closure of most camps towards the conclusion of the Wet season in April. These camps typically reopen at the onset of June. For those keen on encountering wild dogs, the optimal time is during their denning season from June to August.

Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
Wildlife Photos
nyerere selous (13)
​Birds – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Nyerere National Park, previously known as the Selous Game Reserve, stands as a remarkable destination for bird enthusiasts, boasting a record of over 440 species. The park’s prominent avian residents are drawn to the sandbanks, lagoons, islands, and channels lining the Rufiji River. A boat safari offers an ideal opportunity to appreciate the diverse birdlife, with sightings including yellow-billed storks, kingfishers, lapwings, and vibrant bee-eaters. During dawn and dusk, flocks of African skimmers gracefully skim the water’s surface in search of fish. Keep an eye out for African fish eagles and palm-nut vultures perched atop trees. Migratory birds grace the park from November to April, adding to its avian splendor.

Notable Birds in Nyerere (Selous) NP

African fish eagle
common
White-fronted bee-eater
common
Black-winged stilt
common
Spur-winged lapwing
common
Collared palm-thrush
common
Best Time for Bird Watching

Nyerere serves as an excellent birding destination throughout the year. From November to April, the presence of Palearctic and intra-African migrants enhances the birdwatching experience, making this period particularly rewarding. It is also during this time that resident birds engage in nesting activities, showcasing their vibrant breeding plumage. However, it’s worth noting that most camps close towards the conclusion of the Wet season in April and reopen in June. For optimal wildlife viewing, the Dry season, spanning from June to October, is the preferred time to visit.

Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
Facts & Figures

Bird Species

450+

Migratory Birds

Nov to Apr

Best Time To Visit – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

The optimal time for wildlife viewing in Nyerere National Park, previously known as the Selous Game Reserve, is during the Dry season from June to October. As the vegetation thins out, spotting wildlife becomes more manageable, and animals congregate around the Rufiji River, along with its lakes and lagoons. Conversely, the Wet season from November to May brings lush, green scenery, but afternoons can become uncomfortably hot. It’s essential to note that numerous lodges close their doors from April to May during this period.
Best Time
Between June and October is the optimal period for observing wildlife.
High Season
Between June and October, the area around the Rufiji River becomes busy with tourists.
Low Season
During March, April, and May, numerous lodges are shut, particularly from April to May.
Best Weather
From June to October, there is minimal to no rainfall.
Worst Weather
March and April mark the peak of the wet season.
June to October – Dry Season
Water's Edge Wildlife: Simplified Spotting Amid Sparse Greenery
Sunny Skies: Rare Rainfall and Abundant Sunshine
Balmy Breeze: Moderate Humidity and Gentle Heat
Dry and Dusty Days
The primary tourist zone experiences significant crowds.
November to May – Wet Season
The landscape displays stunning greenery.
March to May marks the low season, potentially offering discounted prices.
Superb birdwatching opportunities abound, especially with migratory birds gracing the skies from November to April.
Certain game-drive trails may become muddy and challenging to navigate.
Wildlife sightings are not as abundant as during the Dry season.
Many lodges typically close their doors from April to May.
The weather tends to be hot and humid.
Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
Wildlife Photos
nyerere selous (13)
Weather & Climate – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Nyerere National Park, formerly known as the Selous Game Reserve, experiences a warm to hot and humid climate. Due to its proximity to the equator, temperatures remain relatively stable throughout the year. The period from October to April is characterized by intense heat, while temperatures moderate slightly from June to August. The Wet season spans from November to May, during which heavy rainfall is common. It’s worth noting that numerous lodges close their operations from April to May.
Dry Season – June to October

During the Dry season, abundant sunshine graces most days. Afternoons typically reach temperatures of approximately 29°C/84°F, while nights cool down to around 18°C/64°F.

 

From June to September, rainfall is rare, and the skies remain clear albeit dusty. Early morning game drives may feel chilly due to the cooler temperatures.

By October, the first signs of the Wet season may emerge, with the possibility of rainfall. As the dust settles, the anticipated rains offer relief after an extended period of dry weather.

Wet Season – November to May

During the Wet season, the climate is characterized by warmth and humidity, with afternoon temperatures typically hovering around 31°C/88°F, cooling to approximately 21°C/70°F at night.

 

In November, the Wet season commences, although the precise onset can be challenging to predict. Rainfall tends to be sporadic and brief, often occurring in the afternoons and unlikely to significantly impact your safari experience.

 

As January and February progress, the rainy season intensifies, with several days featuring short bursts of rain, primarily in the afternoons. Daytime temperatures remain close to 31°C/88°F, while nights and early mornings average around 21°C/70°F.

 

March and April mark the peak of the Wet season, with rainfall occurring most days, although typically not continuously. Maximum temperatures typically reach around 30°C/86°F, while minimum temperatures hover around 20°C/68°F.

Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
Nyerere (Selous) National Park
Nyerere (Selous) NP Photos
nyerere selous (4)
​Getting There – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam serves as the primary gateway to the country and Nyerere National Park. As part of our package for Nyerere National Park, we arrange pick-up and transfer either by air or land, ensuring seamless travel arrangements for your convenience.

 

While many travelers opt for flights to Nyerere National Park, a road safari presents an equally rewarding option. The approximately 230km/143mi journey from Dar es Salaam to Mtemere Gate typically takes around 5 hours*.

*Please note that driving times serve as rough estimates, and it’s advisable to consider the possibility of significant delays.
Main Park Map
getting to nyerere map bush2city
Airlines & Ticket Prices

We offer convenient flight booking services to Tanzania at great rates. Alternatively, you can arrange your flights. Either way, we’ll take care of your accommodations and itinerary.

 

There are two direct flight options from Europe to Tanzania. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines operates daily flights from Amsterdam to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro, while Turkish Airlines offers daily flights from Istanbul to the same destinations. These are convenient choices for travelers seeking direct routes.

 

Alternatively, you can fly to Nairobi, the key air travel hub in East Africa, and connect to Tanzania with Kenya Airways, which provides daily flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar. European airlines offering flights to Nairobi include British Airways from London Heathrow, Air France from Paris, Swiss Air from Zurich, Brussels Airlines from Brussels, Lufthansa from Frankfurt, and Kenya Airways from London Heathrow or Amsterdam. Many travelers favor Kenya Airways for its efficient overnight service from London to Nairobi, with a convenient connection to Dar es Salaam arriving around 9:00 AM.

 

Additional connection options for those flying directly into Dar es Salaam include Egypt Air via Cairo, Emirates via Dubai, Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi, Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa, Oman Air via Muscat, and Qatar Airways via Doha. Several airlines also operate flights to Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar, providing flexibility for your Tanzanian safari adventure.

 

Getting to Tanzania: Simplified Guide 

 

From North America:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from North America. Travelers typically make one stop in Istanbul (via Turkish Airlines) or Amsterdam (via KLM). Turkish Airlines connects 13 North American cities to Tanzania through Istanbul, while KLM offers connections from many U.S. and Canadian cities via Amsterdam. For example, the journey from New York to Dar es Salaam with KLM takes about 21 hours, while flights from Los Angeles take only slightly longer.

Another option is flying directly to Johannesburg with Delta Air Lines (from Atlanta) or South African Airways (from New York or Washington). After an overnight stay, you can take a short 3.5-hour flight to Dar es Salaam.

 

From South America:

The quickest route from South America is with South African Airways, flying directly from SĂ£o Paulo to Johannesburg and then connecting to Dar es Salaam. This journey takes about 15 hours. Other options include connections via Europe or the Middle East with airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, KLM, or Turkish Airlines.

 

From Asia:

Kenya Airways connects directly to Tanzania from Bangkok, Hanoi, and Mumbai, with onward flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar. Alternatively, most travelers fly through Middle Eastern hubs with airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, Oman Air, or Qatar Airways.

 

From Australasia:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from Australasia. The best option is with South African Airways, flying from Perth to Dar es Salaam via Johannesburg in about 20 hours. Alternatively, you can connect through the Middle East with Emirates, Etihad Airways, or Qatar Airways.

Domestic Flights

Nyerere National Park benefits from daily scheduled flights departing from both Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. Additionally, flights from Arusha town, serving as the base for the Northern safari circuit, are readily available. The following airlines offer services to Nyerere National Park:

Passport, Visa & Other Entry Requirements

For detailed information regarding passport, visa, vaccination, and other entry requirements, we encourage you to visit our FAQ – Tanzania page. This resource will provide comprehensive guidance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry process.

Want To Visit Nyerere (Selous) NP
​Malaria & Safety – Nyerere (Selous) NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Safety

In our assessment, traveling within Nyerere National Park, previously known as the Selous Game Reserve, is safe. Crime targeting visitors is uncommon in Tanzania, with any incidents typically occurring in major urban areas, mirroring global trends. While exploring cities during your journey, it’s advisable to exercise standard safety measures, as outlined in our ‘Cities & Urban Areas: Safety Precautions’ section. Additionally, during organized safaris, your guide will prioritize your safety and well-being.

Malaria & Vaccinations

Malaria poses a risk in Nyerere National Park. To safeguard yourself, it’s advisable to wear long trousers and closed shoes during the evening hours. Additionally, apply mosquito repellent, with formulations containing DEET being the most effective. Taking antimalarial medication is also recommended. Before traveling, consider receiving several vaccinations, which can be administered by your local travel clinic or doctor. These precautions are essential for ensuring a safe and healthy journey.

Wildlife Viewing

Adhering to the guidance provided by your experienced guide is crucial to ensuring your safety during wildlife viewing activities. Serious incidents during organized safaris are infrequent. Additionally, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ outlined below for further guidance and precautions.

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Photo Gallery of Nyerere (Selous) National Park

Map of Nyerere (Selous) National Park

Photo Gallery of Nyerere (Selous) National Park

Main Park Map

General Travel Safety Precautions

Embarking on an African safari promises an adventure of a lifetime, showcasing the continent’s rich wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse cultures. While safaris are widely considered safe, especially those organized through reputable tour operators, it’s prudent to take certain precautions to ensure a smooth and secure experience. Here are some essential safety tips to consider:

Cities & Urban Areas: Safety Precautions

Traveling through Africa offers an enriching experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and unparalleled wildlife encounters. While it’s generally safe, especially on organized tours or safaris, navigating urban environments requires a bit of savvy to ensure your trip remains worry-free. Here are some straightforward tips to keep in mind, whether you’re exploring bustling metropolises or serene landscapes:

Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions

Exploring the wild through a safari adventure is an exhilarating experience that brings you closer to nature’s most fascinating wildlife. Whether you opt for a guided tour with an experienced professional or decide to navigate the trails on a self-drive journey, safety is paramount to ensure an enjoyable and incident-free adventure. Here are some essential safety guidelines and tips to help you navigate your safari safely:

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