Selous Game Reserve

Tanzania, Africa

Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest protected wildlife reserve in Africa. It's renowned for its vast landscapes of wetlands, savannahs, and woodlands. Experience extraordinary wildlife interactions, including elephants, lions, and rare African wild dogs. Unlike many parks, Selous offers exclusive walking safaris, boat trips on the Rufiji River, and the chance for night game drives. This remote paradise provides a feeling of true wilderness, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Iringa

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Selous Game Reserve

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go on a boat safari

Experience wildlife from a unique water perspective.

Booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a walking safari

Walk through the wild with expert guides for safety.

Booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go on a game drive

Spot the Big Five in their natural habitat.

Booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Rufiji River

See diverse ecosystems along Tanzania's largest river.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Birdwatching in Selous

Spot over 400 species in a pristine habitat.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the historical sites

Learn about the rich history of the reserve.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy a cultural visit

Interact with local tribes and learn their traditions.

Booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Camping under the stars

Experience nature with a night under the open sky.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-15 (#199 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Swahili

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ugali na Maharage ya Nazi

VE

Maize porridge with coconut beans (National dish)

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat, often served with sides

Pilau

VE

Spiced rice dish with meat or vegetables

Zanzibar Pizza

VE

Stuffed flatbread with various fillings

Chapati

VE

Flatbread, often served with curries

Phrases to learn

English

Swahili

Hello

Habari

(Hah-bah-ree)

Yes/No

Ndiyo / Hapana

(Ndee-yo / Ha-pah-nah)

Thank you

Asante

(Ah-sahn-teh)

Excuse me

Samahani

(Sah-mah-hah-nee)

How much?

Bei gani?

(Bay-yee gah-nee)