Remote and relatively inaccessible, the Selous Game Reserve in southeastern Tanzania is the largest game reserve in Africa, and the second-largest conservation area in Africa.
This World Heritage Site is Africa’s largest protected wildlife reserve – at 54 000km2 it is larger than Switzerland and four times larger than the Serengeti. Due to its remoteness, it is only accessible by light aircraft, which ensures a truly special and unique safari experience.
There are myriad attractions in the Selous Game Reserve, from the breathtaking natural wonders to the abundance of wildlife. The hot volcanic springs, lakes and channels formed by the Great Ruaha River and Rufiji River, the largest river in East Africa, make for a beautiful, diverse wilderness ranging from vast grass plains to wetlands, swamps and thick forests. The rivers are teeming with fish, which attracts an incredible variety of water birds. Selous is home to one of the largest hippo and crocodile populations in Africa, as well as the greatest concentration of elephant on the continent. Boasting over 2 100 plant species, 350 bird species, 100 000 Cape buffalo and about 4 000 wild dog, Selous is also popular for its many rhino and its large game population, including brindled gnu, Nyasaland gnu, sable antelope, eland, greater kudu, waterbuck, hartebeest, zebra, giraffe, reedbuck, warthog, spotted hyena, lion, leopard and more.
This is an excellent destination for the truly adventurous and the seasoned safari traveller looking for intimate and up-close encounters. As the Selous Game Reserve is not a national park, there are fewer restrictions on the type of safari activities on offer. As well as guided game drives, you can enjoy guided game walks and boating safaris; truly wild hiking safaris and fly camping – with just a canvas sheet between you and the African wilderness – are sure to ignite all your senses.
Selous Game Reserve