Selous game reserve Travel Guide

The Selous is the largest Game Reserve in Africa, covering some 21,000 square miles. It was established in 1922 to honour Frederick Courteney Selous, the famous bushman and elephant hunter.

Groves of tall borassus and doum palms border the many small lakes and channels that flow from the confluence of the Rufiji and Great Ruaha Rivers. Walking is permitted, accompanied by armed rangers, and there is no experience more exciting than encountering truly wild animals at close quarters on foot or from a small boat. Game drives in especially modified four-wheel drive vehicles are a great way to explore the reserve.

The Selous boasts one of the world's largest populations of elephant, and some of the last remaining Black Rhino. In addition to this, there are also Wildebeest, Giraffe, Lichtenstein's Hartebeest, Sable Antelope, Greater Kudu, Eland, Lion and Leopard to be seen. Hot volcanic springs and more than 350 birds and 2,000 plant species add to this sanctuary's varied attractions.

There are a variety of safari camps situated within the Selous Game Reserve, and all of these can be reached daily via scheduled aircraft from different places including Zanzibar.