Nyerere National Park in southern Tanzania was created from part of the former Selous Game Reserve and centres on the Rufiji River system. It combines game drives, boat safaris and walking.
- Country
- Tanzania
- Type
- National park
- Approx. area
- 30,893 km²
- Best time
- August to October
- Suggested stay
- 3–4 days
- Main gateway airport
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)
- Big Five
- Not all five
- Malaria
- Malaria area: see a travel doctor
Why go to Nyerere
- Boat safaris on the Rufiji River among hippos and crocodiles
- One of the better areas for African wild dog
- Ranger-guided walking safaris (pre-booked)
- More than 440 bird species
- One of Africa's largest parks, with few crowds
Best time to visit Nyerere
Based on average weather and wildlife seasons, the best period to visit Nyerere is August to October.
Dry season; sunny days with little rain, and wildlife gathers around the Rufiji River and lakes.
The wettest months; many lodges and camps close.
A partial dry spell between the rains, hot and humid.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22–32 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| February | 22–32 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| March | 22–31 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| April | 21–30 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| May | 20–29 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| June | 18–28 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| July | 17–28 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| August | 17–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| September | 18–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| October | 19–32 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| November | 21–33 | some rain | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| December | 22–32 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
What you can see
Wildlife you may see in Nyerere includes lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, crocodiles, African wild dogs, hyenas, kudu, sable antelope and birdlife.
Things to do
Getting there
Most visitors fly from Dar es Salaam to airstrips such as Mtemere, Siwandu or Beho Beho; road access is possible but long.
Trips to Nyerere
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Plan by travel style
- Nyerere for families
- Nyerere for a honeymoon
- Nyerere for photographers
- Nyerere for a first safari
- Nyerere on a budget
- Nyerere for luxury travel
Compare with
- Nyerere vs Ruaha
- Nyerere vs Serengeti
- Nyerere vs Tarangire
- Nyerere vs Lake Manyara
- Nyerere vs Ngorongoro
- Nyerere vs Akagera
Travelling to Nyerere from
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Nyerere?
Generally August to October. Dry season; sunny days with little rain, and wildlife gathers around the Rufiji River and lakes.
How many days do I need in Nyerere?
Most visitors spend 3 to 4 days there, not counting travel days.
How do I get to Nyerere?
Most visitors fly from Dar es Salaam to airstrips such as Mtemere, Siwandu or Beho Beho; road access is possible but long.
Is there malaria in Nyerere?
Yes, it is in a malaria-risk area. See a doctor or travel clinic well before your trip.
Sources: TANAPA - Nyerere National Park · SafariBookings - Nyerere climate · Weather2Travel - Selous climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.