Nyerere National Park

The Nyerere National Park, formerly the Selous Game Reserve, is one of Africa’s largest National Parks. It has ultimate wildlife established in 1896 and renamed in 2009 after Julius Nyerere, the country’s first president.

It is home to diverse animals including the Big Five, the wild dog and over 350 bird species; the world’s largest population of buffaloes, among other animals; and the Rufigi River, walking safaris, bird watching and sport fishing

It has a stunning landscape from savanna to forests; Nyerere National Park offers unique wildlife safari experiences amidst its untouched beauty and rich history for adventure seekers and nature lovers

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It is located in North Eastern Tanzania and boasts diverse landscapes featuring Mount Meru, Ngurdoto Crater and Momella lakes. However, other attractions include the abundant wildlife like Giraffes, Cape buffaloes and zebras, as well as over 400 bird species, making it a perfect stop for tourists on Tanzania safaris

The area has activities that include safari drives, bird watching, canoeing, guided nature walks and climbing Mount Meru, and it being near Arusha makes it ideal for a day trip

Best time for the safaris in Tanzania

The best time for a wildlife safari in Tanzania is during the dry season from June to October, when sunny weather makes it easy to spot animals gathering near permanent water sources.

The peak dry season is from June to October, best for classic game viewing and the Big Five, with highlights of thin brush that makes wildlife highly visible and July to September is the ideal window to see dramatic Mara River crossings in the northern Serengeti.

The calving season is from January to March, best for seeing newborn animals and predator action, with thousands of wildebeest calves born daily on the southern Serengeti (Ndutu) plains during January and February, drawing heavy predator activity from lions and cheetahs.

The rainy Season is from November to May, best for birdwatching, lush landscapes, and lower prices, where migratory birds arrive, crowds drop significantly, and park rates are often more affordable. Afternoon downpours are common during the long rains of April and May.

What to pack

Long sleeves and pants that protect your skin from the sun and mosquitoes during dawn and dusk game drives, a sweater or light jacket because early morning and evening drives in open vehicles get cold and comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes or lightweight boots with good grip.

Pack a pair of binoculars for spotting distant wildlife and birds and bring a camera with a good zoom lens at least 200mm, extra memory cards, and spare batteries, a headlamp or flashlight useful for navigating unlit camp paths at night

FAQs about wildlife safaris in Tanzania

When and where can I see the Great Migration?

The herd moves year-round; to see dramatic river crossings in the northern Serengeti, visit between July and September; to see the mass calving season in the southern Serengeti, visit between January and March

What wildlife am I guaranteed to see?

While nothing is guaranteed in the wild, Tanzania holds the highest animal population density globally. You have excellent chances of checking off the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino), alongside cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and hippos.

What should I wear on daily game drives?

Pack lightweight, breathable layers in neutral tones like khaki, beige, olive, and brown. Avoid bright colours that attract bugs, dark blue or black clothes that draw tsetse flies, and stark white fabrics that instantly show safari dust.