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The Selous Game Reserve lies at the heart of Tanzania’s forgotten south. It’s Africa’s largest wildlife reserve and covers 48000 m² - more than 5 % of Tanzania’s mainland. Bisecting is the Rufiji River, the king of Tanzania’s rivers, that winds its way more than 250 km from its source in the highlands through the Selous to the sea. Flying over the river gives an awe-inspiring perspective and shows how the Rufiji meanders through the area and builds the lifeline of the reserve. Only the section north of the river is open for tourism; large areas of the south have been zoned as hunting concessions.
 

It took me 14 hours (6 hours more than it should J) to get from Dar es Salaam to Mloka by bus. As the forests around the reserve are packed with elephants and are very dark at night, I was accompanied by some locals to get to my camp. Game, Walking and boat safaris are offered by the camps with the boat safaris on Rufiji River being the highlight of activities with stunning views and amazing wildlife. The Selous is home to large herds of elephants, hippos, crocs and wildebeests and has a remarkable reputation for the elusive wild dog, although I didn't spot any.
 

Although the number of tourists visiting Selous is gradually increasing, it remains low in comparison to the northern parks, and the congestion of the north is refreshingly absent. As you might expect game densities increase the further you get into the reserve. During dry season game concentrates around the numerous lakes and the mighty Rufiji.