Why the Selous Game Reserve tour is Africa’s Best Kept Secret

The Selous Game Reserve is a deserving World Heritage Site selection as explained below.

The Selous Game Reserve covers over 50,000 square kilometers in southern Tanzania near to the coast and it is the largest game reserve in Africa.The mighty Rufiji River flows through the reserve where the majority of  camps are situated along the sandy banks of the river and nearby lakes. There is one camp geared to the budget traveler however the remaining camps are aimed at the luxury camp crowd.

There are roads and trains into the park however it is best reached by small plane due to its remoteness. The Selous is not as popular as the northern parks circuit and so encounters with other tourists is infrequent which which makes the Selous Reserve more attractive to the seasoned African visitor.

Within the Selous Game Reserve are thousands of elephants and water buffalos, and other large herds of  unique African animals . Lions and leopard , giraffes and monkeys also inhabit many areas of the reserve. In addition, the rivers play host year round to large populations of hippos and crocodiles. The Selous is also home to one of the largest remaining populations of the endangered African Wild Dog. There are also over 350 bird species within the reserve ; and 2,149 species of trees and plants in the reserve are found nowhere else in the world.

A typical tour encompasses about 3-5 days staying at the same camp or lodge. Outings from the camps and lodges consist of small river craft or boat rides, 4 wheel drive excursions, and even walking safaris with an armed guard is permitted.And there is something to be said about just relaxing at the camp reading a book amidst the sounds, smells and sights of Africa. The scenery is stunning and makes a remarkable setting for photography.

It is not advisable to visit during the heavy rains that typically fall in March, April and May, however the park does green up substantially after the rains subside. As pretty as the park becomes in the cooler months of June, July and August; the foliage does obscure viewing of the wildlife somewhat, coupled with the fact that a lot of the herds remain deep in the bushy swamplands as long as the water holes retain surface water.  However as the dry season drags on into September and October, and the waterholes dry up, many of the herds including the predators, make their way closer to the river for survival. The park is not as pretty in September and October, and it will be hotter, however this is the best time for animal sightings along and in the river. The light rains fall in November and December, and the herds retreat back into the bush. The park greens up again in January and February however this is when the temperature and humidity are at their seasonal highs and quite uncomfortable for those not accustomed to it.

A visit to the Selous Game Reserve can be easily done in conjunction with a visit to Zanzibar or other parts of Tanzania . Contact us to arrange your Selous Game Reserve safari today.

We are ready to answer any more of your questions on the Selous Game Reserve.