Nyerere National Park

Africa’s Largest Protected Wildlife Area & Home of the Rufiji River

Best Time

June – October

Region

Southern Tanzania

Area

30,893 km²

Safari Style

Boat Safaris

Overview

Discover Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park is Africa’s largest protected wildlife area and one of Tanzania’s most spectacular safari destinations. Covering more than 30,000 square kilometers, the park forms part of the vast Selous ecosystem and offers an authentic wilderness experience unlike anywhere else in East Africa.

Flowing through the heart of the park, the mighty Rufiji River creates a rich network of channels, lakes, and wetlands that support extraordinary wildlife. These waterways make Nyerere one of the few places in Tanzania where visitors can enjoy unforgettable boat safaris alongside traditional game drives and guided walking safaris.

Wildlife & Landscape

Nyerere National Park is home to elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, zebras, antelopes, and one of Africa’s largest remaining populations of endangered African wild dogs. More than 440 bird species have also been recorded, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Why Visit ?

Whether you’re cruising along the Rufiji River, exploring remote bush tracks, or discovering wildlife on foot with an expert guide, Nyerere National Park delivers one of Tanzania’s most diverse safari experiences in an unspoiled natural setting.

Highlights

Scenic Boat Safaris on the Rufiji River
Guided Walking Safaris
Africa’s Largest Protected Wildlife Area
Outstanding African Wild Dog Population
Rich Wetlands & River Channels
Exclusive Wilderness Safaris

Things to do

Game Drives
Boat Safaris
Walking Safaris
Bird Watching
Wildlife Photography
Sunset River Cruises

Best Time to Visit

JAN – MAR

The landscape is lush and vibrant, making it an excellent season for birdwatching, photography, and seeing newborn wildlife across the park's diverse habitats.

APR – MAY

During the long rains, Nyerere transforms into a green wilderness filled with flourishing vegetation and dramatic river scenery. Visitor numbers are low, creating a peaceful safari atmosphere.

JUN – OCT

The dry season offers outstanding wildlife viewing as animals gather around the Rufiji River and surrounding water sources. It is the ideal period for game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris.

NOV – DEC

The short rains refresh the park with fresh greenery and excellent birdlife while continuing to provide rewarding wildlife encounters throughout the river system.

Getting There

Nyerere National Park is located in Southern Tanzania and is easily accessible by both air and road. The quickest option is a scheduled or charter flight from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Arusha, or other major safari destinations to one of the park’s airstrips, where your Lowen Safaris guide will be waiting to begin your adventure.

For travelers seeking a scenic journey, the park can also be reached by road from Dar es Salaam in approximately five to six hours. This drive offers beautiful countryside views and provides an opportunity to experience rural Tanzania before arriving in one of Africa’s largest protected wilderness areas.

Lowen Safaris takes care of every aspect of your journey, including airport transfers, domestic flights, luxury accommodation, private safari vehicles, professional guides, and personalized itineraries, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable safari experience from start to finish.

On the Map

Your Safari in Pictures

PLAN YOUR JOURNEY

Let’s Plan your Serengeti wonderful safari

Our Tanzania safari specialists will help you design the perfect itinerary based on your travel dates, interests, accommodation preferences, and budget.