Selous Game Reserve

This photograph flawlessly captures two Cheetahs, standing ready and vigilant in the rays of another remarkable day in Tanzania. Distinctively the fastest moving land mammal, these incredible cats are capable of achieving speeds in excess of 70 mph in their pursuit of prey.

Apparently, despite their innate abilities, Cheetahs have a conservation status of ‘vulnerable’. Unlike other safari animal species, this is not widely believed to be due to human meddling, but rather genetic problems. Cheetah cubs tend to be puny, and small breeding groups often lead to birth defects and weaknesses.

One of the optimum Cheetah spotting locations in the country is Selous Game Reserve, the largest “unscathed” game reserve in Tanzania & UNESCO recognized World Heritage Site. The reserve is approx. 55,000 sq. Km in size and nestled in the heart of Southern Tanzania. It is about 6hrs drive from the city of Dar es Salaam and 45mins by charter flight. The best time to visit the reserve is the dry season, between June to November as there is a better opportunity of spotting animals during this period. The weather condition during December to March is hot and humid.

The reserve is not crowded and is a habitat for some of the greatest concentration of wildlife on the continent including 70,000 elephants, cape buffaloes, black rhinos, giraffes, African hunting dogs, several big cats and over half a million antelopes including sable, kudu, eland, hartebeest and Nyassa Wildebeest. Over 440 known species of birds and 2000 plant species inhabit its diverse and striking landscape.

Selous is also accentuated by the largest river in Tanzania – the Rufiji. The river is renowned for boat safaris and is home to crocodiles and hippos. Chiefly an adventurous activity, the walking safari is typically done in the break of dawn accompanied by an armed ranger. This is without a doubt one of most rewarding experiences in Tanzania.

A wide array of accommodation is available in Selous, ranging from budget to top-end lodges and camps. Budget lodges, such as Ndoto Kidogo Lodge, provide all the basic necessities at an affordable rate, while premier locations, such as Selous Impala Camp, offer lavish safari experiences for those looking to experience luxury.

Tags: Africa, African hunting dogs, big cats, black rhinos, cape buffaloes, cheetahs, Dar es Salaam, elephants, giraffes, photo of the week, responsible safari, safari, Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania, tanzania safari, UNESCO, waterbuck safaris

This entry was posted on Sunday, June 19th, 2011 at 9:20 am and is filed under Africa, Eastern Africa, Tanzania, adventure travel, animal conservation, ecotours, game reserves, national parks, photo of the week, safaris.