Selous Game Reserve, located in southern Tanzania, is a vast and extraordinary wilderness that covers an area of approximately 50,000 square kilometers (19,000 square miles). It is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and remains largely untouched, offering an authentic and off-the-beaten-path safari experience.
The reserve is home to an astounding array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous antelope species. It is also renowned for its birdlife, with over 440 recorded species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
From luxurious riverside retreats to intimate eco-friendly camps, these accommodations provide the perfect base for exploring the wonders of Selous Game Reserve.
Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the finest camps and lodges, where comfort, adventure, and immersion in the wild come together to create an unforgettable safari experience.
Sand Rivers Selous
Sand Rivers Selous is an iconic and luxurious safari camp located in the heart of the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania. Nestled along the banks of the Rufiji River, the camp offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, exceptional wildlife encounters, and unparalleled comfort.
Accommodations at Sand Rivers Selous consist of spacious and beautifully designed cottages and suites, each offering privacy and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The rooms are elegantly furnished, with comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and private verandas that overlook the river. The camp also features the exclusive Kiba Point, a private retreat that offers a more intimate safari experience for small groups or families.
Sand Rivers Selous offers a variety of activities for guests to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of the reserve. Expert guides lead thrilling game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, providing opportunities to encounter elephants, lions, leopards, and a wealth of other wildlife species.
Walking safaris offer a chance to explore the smaller details of the ecosystem, learning about tracks, plants, and insects. For a unique perspective, boat safaris along the Rufiji River reveal the rich aquatic life, including crocodiles and a myriad of bird species.
Selous Serena Camp
Selous Serena Camp is a luxurious safari camp located in the heart of the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania. As part of the Serena Hotels group, this camp offers a high standard of comfort and service in a stunning natural setting.
Accommodations at Selous Serena Camp consist of spacious and elegantly designed safari-style tents. The tents are constructed on wooden platforms and feature en-suite bathrooms with hot water showers, comfortable beds, and private verandas that overlook the surrounding landscapes. The camp’s décor combines traditional African elements with modern comforts, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.
The main area of Selous Serena Camp includes a dining area, lounge, and bar. Guests can enjoy delicious meals prepared by skilled chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The camp offers a blend of international and local cuisine, catering to various dietary preferences. Guests can also relax in the lounge or gather around the campfire in the evening, sharing stories and experiences from their safari adventures.
Selous Serena Camp offers a range of activities to explore the diverse ecosystems and wildlife of the Selous Game Reserve. Expert guides lead game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, providing opportunities to spot elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and a plethora of bird species. The reserve is known for its impressive populations of wildlife, making each game drive a thrilling and rewarding experience.
For a more intimate and educational experience, guided nature walks are available, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the smaller details of the ecosystem and learn about the flora and fauna of the reserve. Cultural visits to neighboring communities provide insights into the local way of life, traditions, and crafts, allowing guests to engage with the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Beho Beho
Beho Beho is an exclusive and intimate safari camp located in the heart of the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania. Known for its luxury, privacy, and breathtaking surroundings, Beho Beho offers a truly exceptional safari experience.
Accommodations at Beho Beho consist of spacious and beautifully designed stone and thatch cottages, perched on a hillside with sweeping views of the reserve. Each cottage offers a private veranda, en-suite bathroom, and a comfortable living area. The interiors are elegantly furnished with a blend of contemporary and traditional African décor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Beho Beho prides itself on its personalized service and attention to detail. The camp accommodates a maximum of 18 guests, ensuring an exclusive and intimate atmosphere. The highly trained staff cater to guests’ every need, from organizing activities to providing exceptional culinary experiences.
The camp offers a variety of activities to explore the abundant wildlife and natural beauty of the Selous Game Reserve. Expert guides lead game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, providing opportunities to encounter elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and a wealth of other wildlife species. Walking safaris are also available, allowing guests to explore the reserve on foot, learning about the smaller details of the ecosystem and appreciating the flora and fauna up close.
Beho Beho offers a unique and thrilling experience called “fly camping.” Guests can spend a night in a temporary fly camp, accompanied by a private guide and support team, deep in the heart of the reserve. This adventure allows for a truly immersive and intimate encounter with nature, far away from the modern world.
Siwandu
Siwandu, formerly known as Selous Safari Camp, is a luxurious and eco-friendly safari camp located in the heart of the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania. Situated along the banks of Lake Nzerakera, Siwandu offers a serene and secluded setting for an unforgettable safari experience.
Accommodations at Siwandu consist of spacious and beautifully designed canvas tents. The camp features two main areas: North Camp and South Camp. Each camp offers a selection of spacious tents, elegantly furnished with comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and private verandas that overlook the surrounding landscapes. The tents are designed to provide a harmonious blend of comfort, style, and a connection to the natural environment.
Siwandu provides an immersive and authentic safari experience with a range of activities to explore the diverse ecosystems and wildlife of the Selous Game Reserve. Expert guides lead game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, allowing guests to encounter a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and numerous bird species. Boat safaris on Lake Nzerakera offer a unique perspective, offering opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, and water birds up close.
For a more intimate and educational experience, guided walking safaris provide a chance to explore the intricacies of the reserve on foot, led by knowledgeable guides who share their expertise on the flora, fauna, and tracks of the area. Cultural visits to nearby communities provide insights into local traditions, customs, and ways of life, allowing guests to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Siwandu prides itself on its exceptional service and attention to detail. The camp’s friendly and professional staff ensure that every aspect of the guest experience is catered to, from organizing activities to providing delicious meals. The camp’s dining area offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, where guests can enjoy delectable meals prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Rufiji River Camp
Rufiji River Camp is a delightful safari camp located in the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania. Situated on the banks of the Rufiji River, this camp offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and comfortable accommodations.
Accommodations at Rufiji River Camp consist of spacious and beautifully designed tents, providing a harmonious blend of comfort and a connection to the surrounding wilderness. The tents are raised on wooden platforms, featuring en-suite bathrooms with hot water showers, comfortable beds, and private verandas that offer panoramic views of the river and its resident wildlife.
The camp’s main area includes a lounge, a bar, and a dining area that overlooks the river. Guests can relax in the lounge area, enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar, or indulge in delicious meals served with warm hospitality. The camp’s culinary team prepares a variety of dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, showcasing both international and local flavors.
Rufiji River Camp offers a range of activities to explore the Selous Game Reserve and its remarkable wildlife. Expert guides lead thrilling game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, providing opportunities to encounter elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and an array of bird species. Boat safaris along the Rufiji River allow guests to witness hippos, crocodiles, and a diverse range of water birds up close.
Guided walking safaris offer a more intimate experience, allowing guests to explore the smaller details of the reserve’s ecosystems, from tracks and plants to insects and birdlife. The camp also offers fishing trips on the river, providing a chance to relax and try your hand at catching tigerfish or other freshwater species.
Jongomero
Jongomero is a luxurious safari camp located in the remote and pristine wilderness of the Ruaha National Park in Tanzania. Set in a secluded area of the park, Jongomero offers guests an exclusive and intimate safari experience surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Accommodations at Jongomero consist of eight spacious and beautifully appointed tented suites. Each suite is designed with privacy and comfort in mind, featuring large en-suite bathrooms, outdoor showers, and private wooden decks with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The tents are elegantly furnished with a blend of contemporary and traditional African décor, creating a tranquil and inviting atmosphere.
The main area of Jongomero is a charming thatched-roof building that houses the lounge, bar, and dining area. Guests can relax in the comfortable lounge, enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar, or savor delicious meals prepared by talented chefs using locally sourced ingredients. Dining experiences range from intimate candlelit dinners to bush picnics in picturesque settings.
Jongomero offers a range of activities for guests to explore the diverse ecosystems and wildlife of Ruaha National Park. Expert guides lead game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, providing opportunities to encounter elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and a wide variety of bird species. The park is known for its large population of elephants and its impressive predator sightings, making it a prime safari destination.
Walking safaris are a highlight at Jongomero, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the smaller details of the bush, from tracking animals to learning about the flora and fauna of the area. The camp also offers night drives, providing a unique opportunity to spot nocturnal wildlife that is often hidden during the day.
Back at the camp, guests can relax and unwind by the outdoor swimming pool or indulge in a rejuvenating massage or spa treatment, allowing for total relaxation and rejuvenation in the heart of the wilderness.
The Retreat Selous
The Retreat Selous is an exclusive and intimate safari camp nestled in the heart of the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania. Located on the banks of the Rufiji River, this luxurious retreat offers a perfect blend of comfort, tranquility, and immersive wildlife experiences.
Accommodations at The Retreat Selous consist of four stunning and spacious suites, ensuring a private and personalized experience for guests. Each suite is beautifully designed with African-inspired décor, featuring elegant furnishings, en-suite bathrooms with luxurious amenities, and a private plunge pool overlooking the river. The suites offer a perfect blend of modern luxury and a connection to the natural surroundings.
The camp’s main area is a stylish and inviting space that includes a lounge, bar, and dining area. Guests can relax in the comfortable lounge, enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar, or dine on exquisite meals prepared by skilled chefs. The dining experience is tailored to guests’ preferences, with meals served in various scenic locations, including on the riverbank or under the starlit sky.
Walking safaris are also available, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the smaller details of the bush, accompanied by experienced guides who share their knowledge of the flora, fauna, and cultural significance of the area. Boat safaris along the Rufiji River offer a unique perspective, showcasing the rich aquatic life, including hippos, crocodiles, and an array of water birds.
Selous Kinga Lodge
Selous Kinga Lodge is a charming and picturesque safari lodge located in the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania. Situated on the banks of the Rufiji River, this lodge offers a peaceful and serene retreat in the heart of the African wilderness.
Accommodations at Selous Kinga Lodge consist of spacious and well-appointed rooms and river suites. The lodge features a variety of accommodation options, ranging from cozy rooms nestled amidst the lush gardens to river suites with private decks overlooking the Rufiji River. Each room and suite is tastefully decorated with local materials, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for guests.
The lodge’s main area includes a spacious lounge, a bar, and a dining area where delicious meals are served. Guests can relax in the lounge, enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar, or savor a variety of culinary delights prepared by talented chefs. The dining experience often includes a mix of international and local cuisine, showcasing the flavors and ingredients of Tanzania.
For those seeking relaxation, the lodge features a swimming pool overlooking the river, where guests can unwind and soak up the tranquility of the surroundings. The lodge also offers spa treatments, allowing guests to indulge in rejuvenating therapies and massages.
Amara Selous
Amara Selous is an exceptional safari lodge located in the Selous Game Reserve, one of Tanzania’s largest and most pristine wilderness areas. Situated on the banks of the Ruaha River, Amara Selous offers a luxurious and intimate retreat in the heart of the African bush.
Accommodations at Amara Selous consist of 12 spacious and beautifully appointed tented suites. Each suite is elegantly furnished and designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment, offering a harmonious balance of comfort and immersion in nature. The tents feature en-suite bathrooms with both indoor and outdoor showers, comfortable beds, and private decks that overlook the river or surrounding landscapes.
The lodge’s main area is a stylish and welcoming space that includes a lounge, bar, and dining area. Guests can relax in the comfortable lounge, enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar, or savor delicious meals prepared by talented chefs. The dining experience at Amara Selous emphasizes fresh and locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the flavors of Tanzania and international cuisine.
Walking safaris are a highlight at Amara Selous, allowing guests to explore the smaller details of the bush and experience the sights, sounds, and scents of the wilderness up close. Boat safaris along the Ruaha River offer a different perspective, showcasing the rich aquatic life, including hippos, crocodiles, and water birds.
Back at the lodge, guests can relax by the swimming pool, enjoying panoramic views of the river, or indulge in a rejuvenating massage or spa treatment. The lodge’s spa offers a range of therapies and treatments using natural and locally sourced ingredients, providing a soothing and revitalizing experience.
Amara Selous is committed to sustainable practices and responsible tourism. The lodge operates with a minimal environmental footprint, supporting conservation initiatives and engaging with local communities to foster positive social and economic impact.
Selous Ngalawa Camp
Selous Ngalawa Camp is a unique and eco-friendly safari camp located in the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania. Nestled in a prime location along the Rufiji River, this camp offers guests an immersive and authentic safari experience.
Accommodations at Selous Ngalawa Camp consist of spacious and comfortable safari-style tents. The camp emphasizes simplicity and sustainability, with tents designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Each tent features en-suite bathrooms with eco-friendly composting toilets and bucket showers, ensuring a minimal ecological impact while still providing necessary comforts.
The camp’s main area is a central mess tent that serves as a dining and lounge area. Here, guests can gather to enjoy delicious meals prepared by the camp’s skilled chefs, utilizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The mess tent also serves as a space for relaxation and socializing, with comfortable seating and a bar where guests can unwind and share stories of their safari adventures.
Boat safaris along the Rufiji River are a highlight at Selous Ngalawa Camp. Guests can embark on guided boat trips, allowing them to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of water birds in their natural habitat. Fishing excursions are also available for those who enjoy angling.
Walking safaris provide an intimate and up-close experience with the wilderness. Accompanied by experienced guides, guests can explore the bush on foot, discovering tracks, plants, and smaller wildlife that may be overlooked during game drives.