Nyerere National Park

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Nyerere National Park Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 2-3 days

Best Time: June - October Read More

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"Unspoiled Wilderness and Selous Game Reserve"

Nyerere National Park Tourism

Nyerere National Park is located in southeastern Tanzania, spanning 30,893 square kilometres, making it Africa's largest standalone national park and one of the world's largest. Despite its immense size, the park is relatively unexplored and famous for its abundant wildlife. It hosts a dense population of various species, including the iconic Big Five – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos.

Formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is a UNESCO Heritage Site in Tanzania. Its diverse habitats are home to large herds of elephants and buffaloes, as well as healthy populations of hippos, giraffes, and sable antelope. The park is notable for its significant population of endangered wild dogs. Additionally, it has a rich variety of birds, with around 450 species recorded.

Entry Fees to Nyerere National Park:
Park Entry Fee:
Peak Season:
EAC: Adult (above 16 years) – TSH 10,000, Child (age 5 – 15 years) – TSH 2,000
Residents: Adult - $35, Child - $10
Non EAC: Adult - $70, Child - $20

Low Seasonal:
EAC: Adult (above 16 years) – TSH 10,000, Child (age 5 – 15 years) – TSH 2,000
Residents: Adult - $30, Child - $10
Non EAC: Adult - $60, Child - $20

Special Activities:
Walking Safaris:
Short walks for adults(1 to 2 hours): EAC – TSH 5000, Residents - $20, Non-EAC - $20
Short walks for children: EAC – TSH 2500, Residents: $10, Non-EAC - $10
Long Walks for adults (above 4 hours): EAC – TSH 10000, Residents - $25, Non-EAC - $25 Long Walks for children: EAC – 5000, Residents - $15, Non EAC - $15

Night Game Drives:
Adult: EAC – TSH 10,000, Residents - $50, Non-EAC - $50
Child: EAC – TSH 5,000, Residents - $25, Non-EAC - $25

Sport Fishing: (07:00 AM to 05:00 PM)
Adult: EAC – TSH 10,000, Residents - $25, Non-EAC - $25
Child: EAC – TSH 5,000, Residents - $10, Non-EAC - $10

Canoeing per person per 2 hours:
Adult: EAC – TSH 5,000, Residents - $20, Non-EAC - $20
Child: EAC – TSH 2,000, Residents - $10, Non-EAC - $10

Hiking Fees: EAC – TSH 10,000, Residents - $20, Non-EAC - $20
Boating Safari Fee: EAC – TSH 10,000, Residents - $20, Non-EAC - $20
Guide Fee: EAC – TSH 30,000, Residents - $40, Non-EAC - $40
Crew (guides, porters, campers, driver guides, and cooks) Fee Per Person Per Day: TSH 3500
Balloon Operation Fees (per person per trip): $50

Entrance Gates to Nyerere National Park:
Nyerere National Park has two main entrance gates:
1. Mtemere Gate: Mtemere Gate is closest to the central and eastern areas of Nyerere National Park. It is approximately 52 kilometres from the town of Masasi. Visitors interested in exploring the central and eastern parts of the park should opt for this gate.
2. Matambwe Gate: Matambwe Gate is located in the northern part of Nyerere National Park. It is closest to the town of Kilwa Masoko, which is about 36 kilometres away. This gate is a convenient choice for those wanting to explore the northern region of the park.

Things to do in Nyerere National Park

1. Game Drives Safari

Game drives are the most popular safari option, allowing visitors to explore the park's diverse landscapes and encounter wildlife, including the Big Five. These safaris typically last 3 to 4 hours and (Read More) can be scheduled as morning, afternoon, or full-day drives. The best spots for game drives are the central and northern regions of the park, where large concentrations of animals are often seen.

2. Walking Safaris

For an immersive experience with nature, walking safaris are available, led by experienced guides. These safaris last a few hours and provide an up-close encounter with wildlife, along with insights i (Read More)nto the park's smaller ecosystem elements. The best spots for walking safaris are in the remote and less-visited areas of the park.

3. Boat Safaris on Rufiji River

Boat safaris along the Rufiji River and its channels offer a unique perspective to view hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. The best time for boat safaris is during the dry season when (Read More)water levels are lower, and wildlife congregates around water sources. These safaris usually last 2 to 3 hours.

4. Fishing

Fishing primarily takes place along the Rufiji River, and visitors can also explore smaller channels and swamps within the park for fishing opportunities. The fishing style in Nyerere involves spot fi (Read More)shing, where all caught fish are released back into the water. A tour guide accompanies visitors, enhancing the fishing trip's value with their expertise.

5. Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Nyerere is one of the two national parks in Tanzania that provide this experience, with the other being Serengeti National Park in the Northern Circuit. The hot air balloon rides in Nyerere take place (Read More) very early in the morning, allowing visitors to witness the breathtaking sunrise and enjoy panoramic views of animals and birds as they soar above the park.

6. Fly Camping

For an adventurous experience, fly camping safaris offer a night or two spent in the wilderness. Visitors camp in mobile tents set up in remote areas, providing an authentic and exclusive safari exper (Read More)ience under the stars. The best spots for fly camping safaris are in secluded locations away from the main tourist areas.

7. Bush Meal and Sundowners

Bush Meals and Sundowners in Nyerere National Park provide dining experiences amidst the wilderness, typically under acacia trees or near rivers, surrounded by the park's natural beauty. These meal lo (Read More)cations are accessible by safari vehicles or guided walking safaris. In addition to dining, visitors can engage in wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The duration of bush meals varies but typically lasts for a few hours. The best time to enjoy bush meals is during the late afternoon or early evening, witnessing the stunning African sunset. It is recommended to choose reputable tour operators or lodges that can arrange bush meals while prioritizing safety guidelines and providing guidance from experienced guides.

8. Stiegler's Gorge

Located in the northern part of the park along the Rufiji River, Stiegler's Gorge is a breathtaking canyon with stunning views. Visitors can reach this attraction by safari vehicle or boat. The best t (Read More)ime to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon for pleasant temperatures and better wildlife sightings.

9. Hot Springs

The park is home to several hot springs, such as Maji Moto and Maji Moto Mdogo. These natural wonders provide an opportunity for a unique and refreshing experience. The springs can be reached by safar (Read More)i vehicle or on foot during walking safaris. Visiting during the cooler parts of the day is recommended.

10. Beho Beho Hills

Located in the northern region of the park, Beho Beho Hills offer stunning panoramic views of the landscape. Visitors can go on guided walks to explore the area and enjoy picturesque sunrises and suns (Read More)ets. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon for favourable lighting conditions.

11. Lake Tagalala

This picturesque lake is an ideal spot for birdwatching, especially during the dry season when it attracts a wide variety of bird species. Boat safaris are available for visitors to explore the lake a (Read More)nd its birdlife. The best time to visit is during the dry season when bird activity is at its peak.

12. Rhino Camp

This area in the southern part of the park is one of the best places to spot the elusive black rhino. Visitors can go on game drives to increase their chances of encountering this endangered species. (Read More)The best time to visit is during the cooler hours of the day, early morning, or late afternoon.

13. Siwandu Sand River

Located in the northern part of the park, the Siwandu Sand River is a picturesque spot for wildlife viewing. Visitors can witness herds of elephants and other animals coming to drink at the river. Gam (Read More)e drives and walking safaris are the best activities to explore this area. Early morning or late afternoon is the prime time for wildlife sightings.

14. Lake Manze

This tranquil lake in the northern region of the park is a popular destination for boat safaris. Visitors can observe a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and birds. Boat safaris typic (Read More)ally last a couple of hours, and early morning or late afternoon is the best time to spot wildlife activity.

Must Know Before You Travel to Nyerere National Park

  • Timings: All the park gates open from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM, throughout the year.
  • Choose the Right Airstrip: Considering its size, if planning a fly-in safari, select the appropriate airstrip in Nyerere National Park to avoid lengthy transfers and save costs.
  • Pre-booking: For a seamless experience, pre-book activities such as hot air balloon rides, fishing safaris, guided walking safaris, and accommodations.
  • ATMs: ATMs are not available within Nyerere National Park, so it's essential to carry enough cash for expenses during your visit.
  • Mobile Network Coverage: The park has wide mobile network coverage (AIRTEL is the best network), with some lodges offering complimentary WI-FI and. However, there are some areas with no mobile coverage.
  • Malaria Risk: Nyerere National Park has a risk of malaria, so it is essential to protect yourself by wearing long trousers and closed shoes during the evening hours.
  • Vaccinations: Ensure you have recommended vaccinations for yellow fever, tetanus, typhoid, polio, and hepatitis, and consider taking anti-malaria prophylactics.
  • Southern Tanzania Safari Circuit: Nyerere National Park is part of the Southern Tanzania safari circuit, along with nearby parks like Mikumi and Ruaha.

More on Nyerere National Park Travel

Wildlife in Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park boasts diverse and abundant wildlife, starting with the iconic Big Five, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. The park is also known for its population of endangered wild dogs. Unusually large groups of giraffes can be seen alongside other ungulates, including buffalo, waterbuck, impala, and zebra. Additionally, the park houses antelope species such as the majestic sable and puku. Blue monkeys, savannah baboons, black and white Columbus monkeys and Nile monitor lizards are often seen on the river banks.

Nyerere National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, offering a diverse range of approximately 450 recorded bird species. Among the unique sightings are water birds like the African spoonbill and White-fronted bee-eater, shorebirds such as the African wattled lapwing and Spur-winged lapwing, raptors like the Palm-nut vulture, White-backed vulture, and Dickinson's kestrel. Colourful bee-eaters, including the Northern carmine bee-eater and Böhm's bee-eater, add to the spectacle. Parrots like the Brown-headed parrot and Brown-necked parrot are spotted alongside owls such as the Pel's fishing owl and Pearl-spotted owlet. Other fascinating species include the African skimmer, Black-winged stilt, Racket-tailed roller, Rock pratincole, Thick-billed cuckoo, White-backed night heron, White-headed lapwing, and Yellow-billed stork.

Travel Tips for Nyerere National Park

  • Combine Safari Experience: Enhance your Nyerere safari by combining it with visits to equally wild savannah parks like Ruaha or Katavi National Parks. Alternatively, you can extend your trip with a visit to Mahale National Park, a pristine rainforest reserve on Lake Tanganyika.
  • Fishing: You can rent fishing equipment, including fishing rods, bait, and life jackets, for a small fee in the park.

Best Time to Visit Nyerere National Park

How to Reach Nyerere National Park

How to Reach Overview

The preferred mode of transport to reach Nyerere National Park is by air, with several scheduled flights available to its various airstrips, including Mtemere, Matambwe, Sumbazi, Kiba, Beho Beho, and Siwandu. The main airport nearby is Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, offering a short internal flight of approximately one hour to the park's airstrip. From Zanzibar Airport, the journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, road travel is an option, with a distance of approximately 260 kilometres from Dar es Salaam taking 4 to 6 hours and 230 kilometres from Zanzibar taking 7 to 8 hours by private car or taxi.

How to reach Nyerere National Park by flight

To reach Nyerere National Park, the most practical option is by air. The park has several airstrips that can be accessed via scheduled flights. Some of the most common airstrips include Mtemere, Matambwe, Sumbazi, Kiba, Beho Beho and Siwandu.

The main airport nearby is Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. From the airport, a short internal flight can take you directly to the park's airstrip, saving time and effort. It takes around one hour to reach the park from Dar es Salam and can cost approximately $430 for a round-trip per person.

If travelling from Zanzibar Airport (Abeid Amani Karume International Airport), the journey will take around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the park and cost approximately $550 round-trip per person.

Several airlines provide regular flights to the park from these locations - Regional Air, Coastal Aviation, Safari Air Link and Auric Air.

How to reach Nyerere National Park by road

The distance from Dar es Salaam to the park's entrance is approximately 260 kilometres, and the road trip can take around 4 to 6 hours. From Zanzibar, it takes around 7 to 8 hours to cover 230 kilometres. You can hire a private car or opt for a taxi.

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