Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park, established in 2019, is Africa’s largest national park, covering over 30,000 square kilometers. Located approximately 230 kilometers southwest of Dar es Salaam, it was carved out from the northern part of the Selous Game Reserve and named in honor of Julius Nyerere, Tanzania’s founding president. ​

The park’s diverse ecosystems include miombo woodlands, open grasslands, riverine forests, and swamps, providing habitats for a wide array of wildlife. Notably, Nyerere National Park is home to significant populations of elephants, lions, leopards, African wild dogs, and hippos. The Rufiji River, Tanzania’s largest river, meanders through the park, creating a network of channels, lakes, and swamps that attract a variety of bird species and support a rich aquatic life. ​

Visitors to Nyerere National Park can engage in traditional game drives, boat safaris along the Rufiji River, and guided walking safaris, offering diverse perspectives on the park’s flora and fauna. The dry season, from June to October, is considered the optimal time for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources, making sightings more frequent. ​
Despite its vast size and rich biodiversity, Nyerere National Park remains relatively uncrowded compared to Tanzania’s northern safari destinations, providing a more secluded and intimate safari experience. ​

In summary, Nyerere National Park offers a unique blend of expansive landscapes, diverse wildlife, and varied safari activities, making it a compelling destination for those seeking an immersive and less-traveled African safari adventure.