Formerly the Selous Game Reserve — Tanzania's great southern wilderness. Boat safari on the Rufiji River, Africa's largest wild dog population, walking safaris through palm-studded floodplains, and total solitude from the northern circuit crowds.
Nyerere offers what no northern Tanzania park can — a boat safari. The Rufiji River creates a network of channels, oxbow lakes, and palm-lined banks that support extraordinary wildlife density. You approach hippo pods at just 5 metres, watch elephants wade across mid-river, and see lions cooling off on sandbanks — from a boat, at water level, with nothing between you and the animals.
Nyerere is also the gateway to Africa's most significant wild dog population. The Selous ecosystem is estimated to hold over 1,300 wild dogs — more than anywhere else on earth. Pack sightings are regular, and during denning season (May–July), watching 40 pups tumbling outside a den is unforgettable. Combine with Ruaha for the complete southern Tanzania experience.
Motorised boat through the Rufiji's channels — hippo pods, enormous Nile crocodiles, elephants and lions at the water's edge. Morning and afternoon departures. Unlike any vehicle game drive.
Armed ranger-led walks through riverine forest and open woodland. Read tracks, observe insects, smell the bush. Minimum age 16. The ground-level perspective transforms your understanding of the ecosystem.
Open 4WD drives across the palm-tree-dotted floodplain and miombo woodland. Excellent for wild dog packs, large elephant herds, lion prides, and hippos out of the water at dawn.
Overnight in a remote fly camp deep in the bush — minimal equipment, no fences. One of Africa's most authentic wilderness sleep experiences. Available from luxury operators.
Tiger fish, tigerfish, and Nile tilapia in the Rufiji. Catch-and-release day trips on the river from most camps. Nile perch over 50 kg are possible.
Iconic Rufiji River lodge — open-fronted suites over the river; legendary for walking safaris and wild dog tracking
Intimate 6-tent camp; outstanding personalized guiding; excellent wild dog territory; beautiful Rufiji location
Well-positioned camp on the Rufiji; consistent wildlife encounters; good value for the quality of experience
Good value tented camp; solid boat safaris and game drives; popular with southern Tanzania first-timers
Elevated hilltop position with panoramic views; cooler than river camps; excellent wild dog and elephant sightings
Dar es Salaam → Nyerere (4n) → Ruaha (4n) → Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam → Nyerere (4n) → Dar es Salaam
Zanzibar (4n) → Fly to Nyerere (4n) → Dar es Salaam
Kilimanjaro → Serengeti (4n) → Ngorongoro (1n) → Fly to Nyerere (4n) → Ruaha (3n) → Dar
Connect with verified Tanzania operators for Rufiji River boat safaris and southern Tanzania circuit itineraries.