Covering an area of around 5,000sqkm, the Selous Game Reserve is one of the largest protected wildlife areas in the world. Despite this great size, the reserve is as yet uninhabited by man and could therefore qualify as the world’s largest unspoiled wilderness. Because of the unique ecological importance of the reserve, it is a World Heritage Site, so designated by the United Nations in 1982.

The reserve contains a wide variety of wildlife habitats, which include open grasslands, acacia and miombo woodlands, riverine forests and swamps. It is home to thousands of the big mammals, hundreds of bird species, countless small animals and many reptiles.

The Rufiji River is the main feature in the Selous Game Reserve, and gives opportunities for boat excursions. The river’s delta contains the largest mangrove forest in the world.

The boat excursions on the river and on the adjacent lakes are a special way to observe wildlife and to see some of the best scenery in the reserve. Hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks, buffaloes, and a large variety of water birds such as herons, kingfishers, and gees are abundant in and around the river. Game drives are also attractive, especially along the shores of the lakes and the rivers. Evening drives provide a great experience of seeing the sun going down over the lakes. The adventure-seeking traveller can also explore this reserve on foot. These walks are guided by game rangers