7 DaysPopular
7-Day Northern Circuit Classic
a quote
Destination · 50,000 km²
Nyerere (Selous)
Africa's biggest game reserve, explored by boat on the Rufiji
One of the largest protected areas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982 — vast, wild southern Tanzania laced by the Rufiji River, offering boat safaris and a raw wilderness feel.
southern Tanzania
Region
~50,000 km²
Size
light-aircraft flight from Dar
Access
2–4 nights
Ideal stay
Highlights
Boat safaris on the Rufiji River and lakes
Huge, uncrowded wilderness
Wild dogs, lions, elephants, hippos and crocodiles
Walking safaris and fly-camping
UNESCO World Heritage status
Top experiences
River and lake boat safaris (a rarity in Tanzania)
Walking safaris with armed guides
Fly-camping under the stars
Game drives far from other vehicles
What makes it special
The water. Boat safaris on the Rufiji give a completely different perspective from the northern parks, and the sheer scale means you often have the wilderness to yourself.
Good to know
Remote — reached by air. Best in the dry season; some camps close in the wettest months. A different, wilder style of safari.
Best time & how to combine it
June–October (dry). Combine with Ruaha for a southern-circuit trip, or with Zanzibar/Mafia for bush-and-beach.
