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Selous Game Reserve adventures

Selous Game Reserve Adventures

Selous Game Reserve is one of Africa’s largest protected wildlife areas, renowned for its vast wilderness and exceptional opportunities for safaris and wildlife viewing.

12,266,199
Acres Protected
Varies; primarily guided safari routes
Miles of Trails
Approx. 20,000
Annual Visitors
1922
Year Established

About Selous Game Reserve

Selous Game Reserve
 

Selous Game Reserve, located in southern Tanzania, spans over 50,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest faunal reserves in the world. The reserve’s diverse landscape includes vast miombo woodlands, wetlands, riverine forests, and savannah, largely shaped by the Rufiji River system that runs through it. Selous is home to a remarkable array of wildlife including large populations of elephants, African wild dogs, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of bird species. Established in 1922, the reserve was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 for its protection of significant wildlife populations and their habitats. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as guided game drives, walking safaris, boat safaris on the Rufiji River, and photographic expeditions. The reserve’s relatively low density of tourists compared to other Tanzanian parks provides a more remote and authentic wilderness experience. Notable landmarks within Selous include the Rufiji River, known for its hippo pods and crocodiles, and the vast open plains that offer dramatic game sightings. Conservation efforts focus on combating poaching and maintaining the balance between eco-tourism and wildlife protection. Its remote location demands careful planning, but rewards visitors with breathtaking scenery and unparalleled wildlife encounters.

Highlights

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Rufiji River boat safaris providing close views of hippos and crocodiles

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Large populations of African elephants and endangered wild dogs

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Walking safari opportunities allowing intimate experiences with nature

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Remote wilderness camps offering exclusive access to unspoiled habitats

Notable Natural Features

Rufiji River

A vital waterway supporting an abundance of aquatic species, hippos, crocodiles, and attracting diverse birdlife.

Miombo Woodlands

Extensive woodlands dominated by Brachystegia trees, providing habitats for elephants, lions, and other large mammals.

Wild Dog Population

One of the most important refuges for the endangered African wild dog, offering rare viewing opportunities.