Top asked questions about Nyerere National Park
Top asked questions about Nyerere National Park are the different things to know about one of the largest national parks in Tanzania.
covering an area of approximately 30,893 square kilometers, the park is a vast wilderness area with diverse landscapes such as grassy plains, wetlands, miombo woodlands, riverine forests and sand rivers.
Nyerere National Park is one of the most fascinating safari destinations in Tanzania, the park lies in Southern Tanzania along the Southern Tanzania Safari Circuit.
As expert travelers, some of the frequently asked questions about Nyerere National Park has been answered below.
How big is Nyerere National Park?
Nyerere National Park covers an area of approximately 30,893 square kilometers, its vast size makes it one of the largest national parks in Tanzania.
The park is a vast wilderness area with diverse landscapes such as grass plains, wetlands, miombo woodlands, riverine forests and sand rivers.
What is the history behind the park’s name?
The park was named after Julius Nyerere, the first president of Tanzania. Julius Nyerere played a key role in Tanzania’s independence movement and is famous for his conservation efforts.
He was a prominent African statesman who led Tanganyika which later became Tanzania to independence from the British colonial rule in 1961, after independence Nyerere as the president of Kenya implemented policies promoting social justice, economic development and environment conservation.
Are there any cultural sites or activities within the park?
Nyerere National Park contains several important historical and cultural sites, these include the graves of German soliders who fought in World War I and the ruins of Swahili trading towns. Visitors on a Nyerere Safari can participate in cultural tours led by local communities.
Can visitors go on walking safaris in the park?
Yes, guided walking safaris are allowed within Nyerere National Park offering visitors a chance to explore the vast wilderness on foot and get closer to nature. The walking safaris are led by experienced, knowledgeable and certified guides who know more about the park’s flora and fauna.
During a walking safari, visitors can expect to encounter various wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, antelopes, several bird species and smaller creatures like insects and reptiles. This nature related activity can be customized to suit the visitor’s interests and fitness level ranging from short walks to multi-day walks.
Are there any accommodations within the park?
There are several accommodation facilities within Nyerere National Park categorized as budget, midrange and luxury to suit different budgets and preferences of the visitors. Accommodations in Nyerere National Park include lodges, tented camps and campsites allowing visitors to experience the park’s wildlife and nature beauty up close.
Some of the accommodation facilities in Nyerere National Park include
Luxury:
Beho Beho, Siwandu Camp, Mivumo River Luxury Camp, Selous Serena Camp, Roho ya Selous and Selous Mbuyu Safari.
Midrange:
Rufiji River Camp, Selous Impala Camp, African safari camp, Selous Wilderness Camo, Selous Mbega Camp, Selous Kulinda Camp, Jimbiza lodge and Sand Rivers Selous Lodge.
Is it possible to see primates in the park?
There are a few species of primates found in Nyerere National Park, however they are less abundant and more easily seen than other parks and reserves in Tanzania.
Among the commonly sighted primates in Nyerere National Park are yellow baboon and vervet monkey found in the park’s riverine forest and woodland areas.
Can visitors go on hot air balloon safaris in Nyerere national park?
Visitors in Nyerere National Park can go for hot air balloon safaris, this fascinating safari activity offer a unique and exciting way to explore and experience Nyerere national park’s wildlife and landscape for a different perspective – an eye’s view.
During a hot air balloon safari, visitors get to float above the treetops and get a bird’s eye-view of the park’s diverse habitats including the Rufiji River, wetlands and savannah plains. Hot air balloon safaris in Nyerere National Park usually occurs in the early morning when the weather is calm and wildlife is most active.
Expect to get aerial views of different wildlife including elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests and many birds, the hot air balloon lasts about an hour. Guests are accompanied by an experienced pilot and a certified guide.
What other activities besides wildlife viewing are available in Nyerere national park?
Visitors can participate in bird watching safaris, boat safaris, cultural visits to the local villages to learn about traditional cultures and lifestyles and guided nature walks exploring the park’s flora and fauna.
Are there any restrictions on photography within the park?
Photography is generally permitted in Nyerere National Park, however visitors should be aware of certain restrictions such as
- Not using flash photography around animals or disturbing wildlife in any way
- Visitors should also obtain permission before taking photos of local communities or cultural sites within the park
Are there any safety or health concerns for visitors to the park?
As a visitor to Nyerere National Park, you should take precautions to protect yourself from insect bites and malaria which are endemic in the region.
