Selous Game Reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Africa. Spanning a total area of over 50 000 square kilometres, it’s relatively untouched and largely inaccessible to tourists, with much of the park designated to hunting and research – only the northern sector is open to tourists.
One of the major distinguishing factors of Selous Game Reserve (relative to the northern parks of Tanzania) is its altitude. At only few hundred feet above sea level as opposed to a few thousand, the climate here is very different, as is the plant and wildlife. The landscape transforms as you travel across the reserve from woodlands and grasslands, to riverine forests and swamps. The focal point is the Rufiji River and the series of five interconnected lakes that it feeds, as well as its network of channels, swamps and shallow sand rivers. As a result, a Selous safari offers a diverse experience, both in terms of the species you can see and how you enjoy the scenery (both water-based and land-based safari are options).
Selous is a big park supporting plenty of wildlife and exceptional birdlife. Sure to provide ample sightings of all types of game, it’s packed with predators, including lion, African wild dog, cheetah, leopard and spotted hyena. You’re also likely to encounter elephant, although the populations were impacted by widespread poaching in the 1970s and 1980s, which almost halved the population.
One of the real drawcards is the range of safari activities available – unlike the national parks, Selous Game Reserve is not bound by the usual stringent rules and here you can participate in walking safaris, boat safaris and camping if you choose.
For every new booking made in 2023, Safari365 will contribute to the further education of one African student enrolled in Umuzi’s digital skills upliftment program.
