A UNESCO World Heritage Wilderness
This little-known reserve happens to be the second largest game reserve in Africa, and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More than 21,000-square-miles (55,000-km²) in size, the Selous is more than half the size of the state of Ohio, twice the size of Denmark and 3.75 times larger than the Serengeti National Park. Unexploited and largely unexplored, no human habitation is allowed in this virgin bush, except at limited tourist facilities.
Wildlife of the Northern Photographic Region
All photographic safari activities are conducted in the northern 20% of the reserve. Although poaching has greatly diminished the elephant population in the southern 80% of the reserve, there are still good numbers of elephant in the northern photographic region. The Selous is a stronghold for buffalo (herds often exceed 1,000), and large populations of lion, leopard, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, greater kudu, hippo, crocodiles, and numerous other species, including giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, waterbuck, African wild dog, impala and a small number of black rhino. Colobus monkey can be found in the forests along the Rufiji River. More than 1 million large animals live within its borders; 350 species of birds and 2,000 plant species have been recorded.
Ecosystem and Exploration
Almost 75% of this low-lying reserve (360 to 4,100 ft./110 to 1,250 m) is composed of miombo woodlands, with a balance of grasslands, floodplains, marshes and dense forests. Morning walks, during which visitors are accompanied by an armed ranger and guide, are popular and are conducted by a number of camps. Fly camping for a few nights is also available from select camps. Exploring this reserve is particularly rewarding as you will encounter few other visitors during your safari.
The Rufiji River: A Wildlife Haven
The Rufiji River, the largest river in East Africa, roughly bisects the park as it flows from the southwest to the northeast. The Rufiji and its tributaries, including Great Ruaha and Luwego, have high concentrations of hippo and crocs. Fish eagles are numerous. Exploring the Rufiji River and its channels and lakes by boat is another great way to view game and experience the splendidness of this vast reserve. Visitors to Tanzania really should consider adding the Selous onto a northern itinerary because, other than its own unique scenery, it is not possible to view game by boat in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara or Tarangire. Fishing is also popular.
Seasons and Logistics
The best time to visit the reserve is during the dry season, July to October. Game viewing from November to February is good, although it is quite hot during that period. During the rainy season, many of the roads are impassable and wildlife is scattered. The reserve is usually closed from mid- to end of March to the end of May. Most visitors fly to the Selous by scheduled or private air charter from Dar es Salaam, while others take advantage of scheduled and charter flights from Arusha, Zanzibar or other parks. Access by road is difficult and only possible in the dry season.
Accommodations
Beho Beho & Siwandu
Beho Beho: Features 10 luxury stone cottages that offer panoramic views over the Rufiji River floodplain. Game drives, boating on Lake Tagalala and superb walking are offered. There is a swimming pool where guests can unwind. Bailey’s Banda is a private villa featuring 2 bedrooms, private pool and deck, with an exclusive vehicle, guide and staff.
Siwandu Safari Camp: A luxury tented camp set on the shores of Lake Nzerakera, comprised of 2 intimate camps (one with 7 tents, the other with 6), each with its own bar, dining room and swimming pool. The camp also has a “dungo,” a large elevated platform overlooking Lake Nzerakera for relaxing and watching game and birdlife. Game drives, escorted walks, boat safaris and fishing are offered.
Sand Rivers & Kiba Point
Sand Rivers Selous: Situated on the banks of the Rufiji River with 8 open-fronted chalets—5 Riverside Rooms and 3 Hillside Suites with private plunge pools. The 2 suites have plunge pools and a lounge area; the Honeymoon Cottage (Rhino House) has its own plunge pool, lounge/dining area and private guide/vehicle. Game drives, walks, boat safaris, fishing and multi-day walking safaris with fly camping are offered.
Kiba Point: A private camp downstream from Sand Rivers featuring 4 large open-fronted rooms, each with private plunge pools and a large swimming pool. Booked on a totally exclusive basis only (8-bedded camp), including game drives, walks, fly-camping, boating and fishing.
Azura & Roho ya Selous
Azura Selous: Located on the Great Ruaha River, featuring 12 deluxe air-conditioned tents with large wooden decks and private plunge pools. Activities include open-vehicle game drives, walking safaris and boating (water levels permitting).
Roho ya Selous: Positioned on the waterway linking Lake Manze to Lake Nzerakera. Features 8 tents with cooling systems for hotter months. Game drives, walks, boating and fishing are offered.
Additional River Camps
Rufiji River Camp: A comfortable tented camp with 20 tents, offering game drives, fishing, and boat safaris. Selous Riverside Camp: Overlooking the Rufiji River, consists of 10 large tented chalets. Selous Impala Camp: Located on the banks of the Rufiji River with 6 tents, private verandahs and a swimming pool, offering game drives, walking safaris and boat rides.