The Selous Game Reserve is the largest game reserve in Africa and one of the most popular game viewing areas in Africa. Covering 50,000 square kilometers, it is one of Africa’s largest protected areas and is relatively undisturbed by human influence.

Africa’s largest and oldest game reserve is one of the most scenic wildlife destinations; the Selous is simply beautiful.  The beauty of the park rivals the quality of a safari: Boat tours, walking safaris and flycamping complement the usual game drives in the thriving wildlife areas.  This is an outrageously good safari park and an essential part of any round trip through the south.

Activities in the Selous Game Reserve

The Selous is an excellent safari destination for both family safaris and African honeymoons, especially since it is easy to get to and does not attract crowds.  The park has the largest variety of safari activities in the country, offering boat safaris as well as normal game drives, walking safaris and the legendary fly camping trips.

In the northern part of the Selous is a network of channels and lagoons that branch off from the Rufiji River.  This lush landscape provides water for the region’s game and towards the end of the dry season, the concentration of wildlife around these water sources is phenomenal.  It is here, around the river and lakes, that most camps are located, successfully relying on the animals’ need for water to create game viewing areas.  The peak season in the Selous lasts from July to mid-November – during this time the dry season prevails and all wildlife stays at the few permanent water sources.

The sheer amount of wildlife in the Selous is outstanding and dwarfs most parks in Africa.  Elephants, buffalo and lions are probably nowhere in the world to be found in greater numbers throughout the year.  But it is the reputation of the Selous as the last true stronghold of African wild dogs that attracts enthusiasts.