Nyerere National Park – The Untamed Heart of Southern Tanzania

Vast, wild, and breathtakingly beautiful, Nyerere National Park is one of Africa’s last great wildernesses. Covering over 30,000 square kilometers, it is not only Tanzania’s largest national park but also one of the largest protected areas in the world. Formerly part of the renowned Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere offers an exclusive and authentic safari experience — far from the crowds, yet rich in adventure, wildlife, and pristine natural beauty. With Golden Acacia Safaris, your journey into Nyerere is a journey into the raw, untouched soul of Africa.

The park’s landscapes are strikingly diverse, ranging from vast grassy plains and dense woodlands to riverine forests and wetlands fed by the mighty Rufiji River — the lifeline of the park. This vast river system creates a network of channels, lakes, and lagoons that support an incredible concentration of wildlife and offer some of the most unique safari experiences in East Africa.

Nyerere is home to an abundance of wildlife, including large populations of elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and a healthy number of predators such as lions, leopards, hyenas, and the endangered African wild dog. The park also boasts one of the largest crocodile and hippo populations in Africa, particularly along the Rufiji River. With over 440 bird species recorded, Nyerere is a paradise for birdwatchers, featuring everything from colorful bee-eaters to majestic fish eagles and storks.

What truly sets Nyerere apart is the variety of safari experiences it offers. Unlike most parks, you can explore Nyerere not only by traditional game drives but also by boat safaris along the Rufiji River and guided walking safaris through the bush — an exhilarating way to connect with nature up close. Glide silently past basking crocodiles and pods of hippos on a sunset cruise, or follow your guide on foot as you track wildlife and learn the secrets of the bush. Every experience in Nyerere feels intimate, wild, and deeply authentic.

With Golden Acacia Safaris, your stay in Nyerere combines wilderness adventure with refined comfort. Our handpicked lodges and camps are carefully chosen for their stunning locations, exceptional service, and commitment to sustainable luxury. Enjoy sundowners overlooking the river, candlelit dinners under the stars, and the tranquil sounds of the wild as you drift to sleep — an experience that is both luxurious and profoundly natural.

The best time to visit Nyerere National Park is during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife gathers around the river and waterholes, and the game-viewing is at its best. However, the green season from November to May reveals a different side of the park — lush, vibrant, and teeming with birdlife, ideal for those seeking tranquility and photographic beauty.

Easily accessible by a short flight from Dar es Salaam, Nyerere is an ideal destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari experience filled with exclusivity and adventure. It also pairs perfectly with Mikumi, Ruaha, or Zanzibar for a truly complete Southern Tanzania safari journey.

With Golden Acacia Safaris, discover the untamed majesty of Nyerere National Park — where the wild remains truly wild, and every moment speaks to the heart of Africa’s natural wonder.