Nyerere National Park

Africa’s Largest National Park & Tanzania’s Untamed Wilderness

Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park, established in 2019, is carved out of the northeastern part of the world-famous Selous Game Reserve. Covering an area of about 30,893 sq km, it is not only Tanzania’s newest national park but also the largest in Africa, dwarfing even the Serengeti. The park was named in honor of Julius Kambarage Nyerere, Tanzania’s first president and a passionate conservationist who dedicated much of his life to protecting wildlife.

Part of the vast Rufiji River basin, Nyerere National Park boasts a stunning mix of habitats—open grasslands, Miombo woodlands, riverine forests, swamps, and sprawling waterways. This diversity makes it one of the most pristine wildernesses in Africa, rich in wildlife and almost untouched by mass tourism.

The Selous Game Reserve, from which the park originates, was established in 1922 and later declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 due to its remarkable biodiversity. It was originally named after Frederick Selous Courtney, a legendary hunter and explorer. Today, Nyerere continues that legacy, offering travelers a truly wild and unspoiled safari experience.

Wildlife of Nyerere

Nyerere is a haven for an astonishing range of wildlife. The park is home to vast populations of elephants, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, wildebeest, giraffes, zebras, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and the endangered African wild dog—one of its last strongholds. Other notable species include the black rhino, sable antelope, greater kudu, eland, impala, waterbuck, baboons, vervet monkeys, and the striking black-and-white colobus monkeys found in its lush forests.

Bird enthusiasts will also find paradise here, with over 440 bird species recorded, including both resident and migratory species.

Nyerere National Park Activities

Game Drives

Bird Watching

Canoeing / Kayaking

Walking / Hiking

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Nyerere National Park Highlights

Largest National Park in Africa

At nearly 31,000 sq km, it’s bigger than Switzerland and almost four times the size of Serengeti.

Named After a Leader

Honoring Tanzania’s first president, Julius Nyerere, for his commitment to conservation.

Stronghold of Wild Dogs

Home to one of Africa’s largest populations of African wild dogs, a rare and endangered species.

Diverse Habitats

From swamps and rivers to savannahs and woodlands, it hosts a wide variety of wildlife.

Rich Birdlife

Over 440 bird species can be seen, including migratory and endemic species.

UNESCO Heritage Connection

Part of the greater Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982.

Best time To Go

Discover optimal safari timing with our seasonal guide for prime wildlife sightings and unforgettable experiences

The best time for game viewing as animals congregate around water sources, and vegetation is less dense. Ideal for boat safaris and walking safaris.

Green landscapes and excellent birdwatching opportunities, as migratory birds arrive. Game viewing is still good.

Some parts of the park become inaccessible due to flooding, and certain areas may close. However, the park is lush, quiet, and stunning for those who don’t mind the adventure.

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