6 Reasons to Visit the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania
The Selous Game Reserve is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. It lies in a remote region of Southern Tanzania. The reserve covers an area of 54,000 square kilometers, is bigger than Denmark and is 4 times the size of the Serengeti National Park. From woodlands, and open grasslands to ravine forests and swamps, there is a tremendous diversity of vegetation and landscapes in the Selous.
Here are some brilliant ideas for activities while planning your next visit to the Selous:
1. Walking Safaris & Fly Camping:
Guided walking safaris are a wonderful way to get close to nature and observe the smaller species and details of the ecosystem. For those looking for an extra adventure, fly camping is also a great option.
2. Boat Safari:
An aquatic experience not to be missed. Enjoy a ride down the mighty Rufiji River or one of its tributaries where guests see plenty of crocodiles and hippos along with a variety of bird species. Other thirsty animals can often be seen close by.
3. Fly Fishing / Sport Fishing:
Catch and release fly fishing is a great way to enjoy a relaxed evening on the banks of the Rufiji river with opportunities to catch fresh water fish such as catfish and tiger fish.
4. Game Drives:
Exploring Selous on a game drive can feel totally private due to the low traffic of tourists. With hardly a few vehicles around, guests can enjoy wildlife sightings almost to themselves. Highlights of sightings include lions, wild dogs, elephants and large herds of buffalo.
5. Birds, Birds, Birds:
Selous has a tremendous variety of birds with over 400 species documented. Several migrator birds from Europe and North Africa can be spotted especially between November to March. Some of the highlights include the carmine bee eater, lilac-breasted roller and the African spoonbill amongst others.
6. Luxury Accommodation:
Being in such remote areas away from phone access and technology, it is amazing to enjoy the great glamping options in the Selous. Guests can expect poolside cocktails, great conversations around the campfire, private outdoor showers, gourmet culinary experiences and breathtaking sunsets over the Rufiji delta.
Due to the location of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a visit to the Selous Game Reserve can easily be combined with a multitude of other safari regions of Tanzania, or a beach extension to the Swahili coast.
Best time to visit: 15 June - 31 October (dry season)
Park Closure: April - May (rainy season)
Being only a 45 minute flight from Dar es Salaam, this region makes for an excellent safari experience in Southern Tanzania.
Takims Holidays was one of the pioneering safari companies that began operating safaris in Southern Tanzania. We are therefore able to confidently suggest exciting itineraries for those clients who are wanting to go off the beaten track. Contact us to design out-of-the-ordinary itineraries.
