A boat safari in Selous Game Reserve is a truly unique and unforgettable way to explore one of Africa’s most pristine wilderness areas. Located in southeastern Tanzania, Selous Game Reserve is the largest protected wildlife reserve in Africa, covering an impressive 5% of Tanzania’s total land area. Known for its untouched beauty and diverse landscapes, Selous is a haven for wildlife and offers a tranquil escape for safari enthusiasts.
Selous Game Reserve boasts an incredible variety of ecosystems, including miombo woodlands, riverine swamps, open grasslands, hills, and vast plains. These habitats support an abundance of wildlife, making it one of Tanzania’s most biodiverse destinations.
Unlike some of Tanzania’s more popular parks, Selous remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism. This ensures an intimate and peaceful safari experience, perfect for nature lovers seeking a quieter adventure.
Selous Game Reserve is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including:
Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled to spot over 350 bird species, especially during the wet season.
The Rufiji River Delta is one of the reserve’s most iconic attractions. It is the largest water catchment in the region and teems with aquatic and birdlife. Here, you can witness:
The Rufiji River connects the Great Ruaha River with the Rufiji River before flowing into the Indian Ocean, creating a stunning landscape that’s perfect for a boat safari.
Accommodation options in Selous range from budget to luxury lodges, catering to every traveler’s preference. Some great options include:
Choose the lodge that best suits your budget and interests for a comfortable and memorable stay.
Selous is about a 6 to 8-hour drive from Dar es Salaam via Kibiti to Mloka and the Selous Mbega Main Camp on the Rufiji River.
For a quicker and more convenient option, you can take a small aircraft from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to Selous. Daily flights are available to the reserve’s airstrips, such as the Mbega Airstrip.
To visit Tanzania, you will need a tourist visa, which costs $100. While some travelers prefer obtaining their visas beforehand, they can also be easily acquired upon arrival at any entry point in Tanzania. Make sure to have proof of yellow fever vaccination and a COVID-19 free certificate, if applicable.
For updated information on visa requirements, customs, and other regulations, contact your local Tanzanian embassy or reach out to us for assistance.
Trek Africa Expeditions offers vehicle hire services to help you get around Tanzania comfortably. We recommend customized 4×4 Land Cruisers, which cost between $200-$250 per day, including a driver. Alternatively, 4×4 safari vans are available at similar rates. Let us know your itinerary, and we’ll provide a cost estimate based on the mileage and distance you’ll travel.
While a boat safari in Selous can be enjoyed year-round, the best times are during the dry seasons:
These months offer ideal conditions for wildlife viewing and comfortable safari experiences. The wet seasons (March to May and November) may bring challenges due to heavy rains but still offer incredible birdwatching opportunities.
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in crafting unforgettable safari experiences tailored to your needs. Here’s why you should book with us:
If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable boat safari in Selous Game Reserve, Trek Africa Expeditions is here to help. From accommodation to transportation and safari planning, we handle every detail to ensure your adventure is seamless and stress-free.
Contact us now to book your Selous safari and experience the beauty of Tanzania’s hidden gem