Welcome To Selous National Park
Selous National Park is one of the largest protected areas in Africa, covering an area of approximately 50,000 square kilometers (19,000 square miles). It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 due to its exceptional biodiversity and untouched wilderness. The park is named after Frederick Courtney Selous, a British explorer, hunter, and conservationist who played a significant role in its establishment.
Location: Selous National Park is situated in the southern part of Tanzania, bordering Mozambique to the south. It is located approximately 200 kilometers (120 miles) west of the coastal city of Dar es Salaam. The park spans three regions: Lindi, Morogoro, and Ruvuma, and it is divided by the Rufiji River.
Landscape: The park is characterized by diverse and picturesque landscapes, encompassing a variety of habitats. It features expansive grasslands, dense woodlands, miombo forests, wetlands, rocky outcrops, and the meandering Rufiji River, which forms a network of lakes, channels, and swamps. The diverse topography contributes to the park's remarkable ecological significance.
Wildlife: Selous National Park is renowned for its incredible wildlife diversity, making it a prime destination for safari enthusiasts. The park is home to a vast array of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, crocodiles, hippos, and numerous antelope species. Additionally, it is an important sanctuary for the critically endangered African wild dog, with one of the largest populations found here.
Visitor Activities: Visitors to Selous National Park can engage in a range of activities to explore and appreciate its natural wonders. Safari game drives are the most popular way to experience the park, allowing visitors to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Boat safaris along the Rufiji River offer a unique perspective, providing opportunities to witness aquatic animals and birdlife. Walking safaris are also available, allowing for a more intimate and immersive wildlife encounter. Fishing, birdwatching, and camping are other activities offered within the park.
Accessibility: Selous National Park can be accessed by air or road. Many visitors fly from Dar es Salaam to one of the park's airstrips, with several domestic airlines offering flights. Alternatively, it is possible to drive to the park from Dar es Salaam, although the journey can be lengthy and requires navigating through rough terrain. It is advisable to use a reliable 4x4 vehicle and plan the trip with a reputable tour operator.