TANZANIA’S GAME RESERVES / TANZANIA’S WILDLIFE AREAS
Background information; by edgardowelelo@yahoo.com, Master of the Game
By 2005, Tanzania has had a total of 31 game reserves or wildlife areas, among which is the second world’s largest – the Selous Wildlife Reserve (currently upgraded parts of its area as the fully protected National Park, which is known as J. K. Nyerere National Park (with over 30,000 sq.km) as the largest national park in Tanzania and the African continent at large after Kruger National Park in South Africa). Currently, Selous Game Reserve is Tanzania’s largest Game Reserve, spanning over two (2) regions in South – Eastern Tanzania, with an area of 18,020.54 square kilometres, and named after Captain Frederick Courtney Selous, an eminent naturalist, explorer, and hunter of the nineteenth century. Selous is known for its spectacular river system, including the Rufiji, Matandu, Njenje, and its diverse terrain dominated by Acacia savanna grasslands and Miombo woodlands. Game reserves or wildlife areas are part of RESOURCE RESERVE as the categories of protected areas. Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) is a government parastatal organization which is responsible to manage the whole spectrum of wildlife (game and non – game species).
Fast Facts
AREA / SIZE: Currently, 18, 020.54 sq.km. The largest game reserve in Tanzania and the entire African continent). Tourism activities include Game drives, guided bush walks, river boats trips.
ESTABLISHMENT: (1896 – 1905. This game reserve is recognised as the UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE.
REGIONS FOUND: Formerly, in Pwani (Coast), Morogoro, Lindi, Mtwara and Ruvuma. Currently, is found in two regions, in South – Eastern Tanzania.
MAIN HABITATS AND WILDLIFE.
Dry miombo woodland, coastal forest, riverine forest, flood - plain grassland. The Reserve is a popular destination for both hunting and photographic tourism due to its abundant large mammal populations, including the Big Four (elephant, lion, leopard, and buffalo), as well as hippos, wildebeest, zebra, impalas, sable antelope, hartebeest, wild dogs, hyenas, waterbuck, reedbuck, bushbuck and many other species. The Reserve has over 450 bird species – in 1 hour across the landscape one may be able to encounter over 50 species of birds in average.
SCENERY;
The Reserve offers spectacular natural views, including the beautiful Lung’onya flood plain and a network of rivers with stunning sandy beaches, such as the Rufiji and Matandu. Visitors can participate in sport fishing for tiger fish and observe various aquatic life in Lake Utunge, Kihurumila and Luwimbi.
HISTORICAL SITES;
Historical sites such as the Obasi and Chema inserberg that were used as battle ground during the Second World War.
TOURISM ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCES;
Game viewing, walking safari, camping, hiking, boat safaris, sport fishing, cycling, bird watching, and so and so.
SEASONS;
Dry season (June to October), wet season/ rainy season (November to May), little seasonal variation in wildlife.
HOW TO GET THERE;
By road; Dar es Salaam/Lindi Road. By air; charter flights.
SELOUS GAME RESERVE AT LARGE
At around 18,020.54 sq. km, Selous is Africa’s largest game reserve. The Reserve covers an area of 18,020.54 sq.km of Tanzania’s total land area which is about 947,300 sq.km. Although slightly off the beaten track of the more well – worn safari circuit, a visit to Selous offers unforgettable game viewing in almost completely isolated surroundings. The park supports enormous numbers of wild animals: 200,000 buffalo, 30,000 elephant (more than half the country’s population), and 80,000 wildebeest, as well as one of the healthiest populations of the endangered African Wild Dog. A successful project is underway to nurture the Reserve’s population of Black Rhino back to health following their depletion by poachers in the 1970s and 80s, and sightings are now possible in the tourist area. A part of the Reserve’s modern – day area was set aside as a game conservancy as far back as 1905, an area which was expanded and named (after Frederick Courteney Selous, a 19th century hunter and soldier) in the 1920s. Repeated sleeping sickness epidemics during the 1930s and 1940s means that the area’s human inhabitants moves out, leaving the Selous area to the animals. Today, sleeping sickness is a thing of the distant past, but the Selous is still an unhabited, untamed slice of Africa. In 1982, the Reserve’s unique ecosystem was recognised internationally and the area designated a World Heritage Site by the United Nations. The greater part of the northern sector of Selous is earmarked for photographic tourism, and it is one of the most beautiful and game – rich areas in the whole ecosystem. Three quarters of the Reserve is woodland of various types, short grassy plains, and seasonally flooded pans. Impressive riverine forests and dense impenetrable thickets are important habitats within Selous. The wide, meandering Rufiji River is one of the largest water systems in East Africa. With its associated wetlands, lakes and swamps, it is one of the most outstanding ecological systems in the whole of East Africa. Walking and boat safaris, as well as traditional game drives, are on offer to visitors to Selous’ small and remote camps and lodges, with little chance of bumping into any sign of human life. Fly camping, or mobile walking safaris, are becoming a popular option for intrepid visitors intent on seeing the best of Africa on foot, unhampered by the closed – in atmosphere of a safari van.
During a game drive or walk one might be lucky enough to see a pack of African Wild Dogs. This species is disappearing throughout Africa but thriving in Selous. These complex and fascinating mammals show little fear of vehicles, and it is often possible to observe their intense social life from close proximity. In the tourist area the density of dogs is higher than anywhere else in Africa. Although the Selous Game Reserve is best known for its spectacular large mammals, it is equally celebrated for its abundant and varied birds. The most conspicuous birdlife is to be found around the constantly changing pattern of sandbanks, oxbow lakes, Lagoons and channels along the Rufiji River. The river scenery is made all the more spectacular by groves of Borassus palms, an indigenous species with tall fronds that sway majestically in the African breeze. Ancient baobabs, a tree held sacred by many tribal groups, stand majestically against the far – reaching horizon. Their deed, hollow, leafless trunks provide vantage points for Fish Eagles and nest sites for Egyptian Geese and Dickinson’s Kestrels.
Background information; by edgardowelelo@yahoo.com
Due to its natural wetland vegetation rich in natural resources, especially forests and rare wildlife, the Kilombero Game Reserve is part of the Kilombero Basin, which received an international conservation status in 2002 through the Ramsar Convention. On February 17, 2023, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, issued a directive to upgrade Kilombero Game Reserve through the Government notice no. 64. This great milestone to establish the Kilombero Game Controlled Area that was established in 1952, was marked by recognizing the importance of conservation, according to the Tanzania Wildlife Act 283 section 14 (1). There is a lot of economic significance that still remains untapped in this ecological site especially in conservation tourism, hydropower generation, and the access to water for irrigation agriculture and neighboring communities.
KILOMBERO GAME RESERVE AT A GLANCE
Kilombero Game Reserve covers nearly 6,989.30 Sq. km within Malinyi, Ulanga and Kilombero districts, in the Morogoro Basin, and managed by the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA)
POTENTIAL FOR SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH
Kilombero Game Reserve holds strategic potential for the sustainable economic growth of Tanzania. A large section of the Kilombero River falls within the Kilombero Game Reserve, which is estimated to have the potential to contribute to the power generation of more than 2,100 megawatts in the coveted Rufiji Hydropower Project. In addition, this river accounts for approximately 65 per cent of the water of Rufiji. This forest is also vital for photo tourism and hunting. Fishing is one of the most important economic activities in the Kilombero Game Reserve for people dwelling on the outskirts of the forest to get an alternative income. It is also an economic activity that generates substantial revenue to both Kilombero and Ulanga districts. Not only this, fishing activities also ensure food security to growing populations, there being adequate food and nutrition for the residents in these areas throughout the year. Fish being a healthy source of proteins, Omega oils and vitamins ensures good health, and that both children and adults do not suffer malnutrition.
ECOLOGICAL SITE THAT HOUSES ENDANGERED WILDLIFE
There are numerous opportunities to continually tap into the increasing potential for tourism in the Kilombero Game Reserve. Being a special ecological site and a natural habitat, Kilombero Game Reserve is providing shelter and refuge for wildlife during the dry seasons. It is also home to rare wildlife such as Sheshe (Puku). It is estimated that 75 percent of the Sheshe (Puku) population in the world is found in the Kilombero Game Reserve, which is on the list of endangered animal species in the world. Within the Kilombero Game Reserve there are approximately 400 species of birds, 23 types of fish – including Sardines (Citharinus congicus and Alestes stuhlmanni) some of which travel between the Rufiji Delta and the Kilombero Reserve in a breeding cycle. Besides, there is a wildlife corridor between it all other protected areas including the Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Nyerere National Park (Formerly Selous Game Reserve), Mikumi, Iluma Community Park, Udzungwa Forest (Uzungwa Nature Reserve) and other surrounding forests.
Background information; by edgardowelelo@yahoo.com
Lukwika – Lumesule Game Reserve is hidden away in the wild hinterlands south – west and west of Masasi and is separated from Mozambique’s Niassa Reserve by the Ruvuma River, and animals frequently paddle across the border. The Reserve forms one of Africa’s largest and live transboundary eco – system where large mammals migrate between the two countries until today. Among the migrating wildlife species through the popular Selous - Niassa Wildlife Corridor are the African Elephants, buffalo, zebra and wildebeests. It was designated as the Game Reserve on 20th November 1995 through Government Notice No. 7 of 1996 from Game Controlled Area.
SIZE/ AREA
The Reserve covers an area of 444.2 km2 and is part of Selous – Niassa ecosystem in Southern Tanzania, extending into Northern Mozambique, Niassa province forming one of the largest natural trans – boundary ecosystems in Africa, covering an area of about 154,000 km.2
GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION
The Reserve is located between Longitude 380.00’ and 390. 15’ East, also Latitude 10020’ and 11025’ South. The reserve share border with Niassa Game Reserve at Niassa Province dissected by Ruvuma River that making the international boundary between Tanzania and Mozambique. The reserve is surrounded by 9 villages including Masuguru, Lukwika, Chungu, Nanyumbu, Mpwahia, Chinika, Mburusa, Mpombe and Ndechela in Nanyumbu district
TOURISM ACTIVITIES
The most part of the reserve is dominated by Miombo woodland which is favorable for hunting tourism, but a number of photographic activities are conducted including – game viewing in the reserve is magical and visitors are assured to see the African Elephants, Greater Kudu and Sable antelope among these not easily seen in other protected areas in Africa. There is also walking safaris in the plains and woodland guided by armed tour guide and birds watching. For those interested in bird life, they can view and listen to beautiful calls and songs from various birds.
WILDLIFE DIVERSITY
The Reserve support populations of large and small animals including – leopards, lions, elephants, hippopotamus, crocodiles, buffalo, sable antelopes and greater Kudu, waterbuck and buffalo which are suitable for tourists with interest of walking safaris and game viewing the abundant of wildlife resources including rhino, elephant, lion, buffalo, zebra and wildebeest. It is also a home of reptiles including pythons, tortoises, and different species of snakes, lizards, and monitor lizards. Birds of numerous species such as guinea fowl, francolins, Quails, doves, ducks, geese, ground hornbills, night jars and owls, eagles and many other birds of East Africa can easily be seen inside the reserve.
VEGETATION / FLORA
The Reserve is characterized by loam soil especially on the hill slope, sandy along the river valley and black cotton soil on the lower land area. The soil support presence of Miombo woodland which dominated Brachystegia spp, Dalbergia spp, Pterocapus, Afzelia spp, Amarula spp. Other vegetation types found including grasslands, wooded grasslands and riverine vegetation.
DRAINAGE SYSTEM
There are three seasonal rivers that flow inside the Reserve including Lumesule River which flows on the west to South. Lukwika River flows on the north to South and Lukwamba River which dissects the Reserve in two parts, flows from the north to the South. These rivers are important source of water to the animals in the Reserve and surrounding communities, especially peoples living in Mburusa, Chimika, Mpwahia, Lukwika and Masaguru villages. Among must see and do in the Reserve includes game viewing of large mammals, series of undulated rocks, historical sites (Habiba Freedom Fighters Hiding Caves), the mighty Ruvuma River, Rocky outcrop (Kopjes), Sunda waterfalls and sand dunes and rocky beaches along the river.
UNITY BRIDGE AT MTAMBA SWALA
The Bridge which connects Tanzania and Mozambique forms as an important connection of human corridor. The attractive statue of elephant tusks has been placed on the bridge to make the view of the bridge more beautiful.
VISITOR FACILITIES / ACCOMMODATION
There are beautiful scenic sites for camping and beach tourism along sand and rocky of Ruvuma River. The towns of Mangaka and Masasi offer a wide range of accommodation facilities catering for visitors with different budgets. Inside the Reserve, there are numerous places for camping especially at Dume and Mtondo area alongside Ruvuma River depending on preference of the visitors.
CLIMATE
The reserve experience seasonal rainfall generally last from November to late May. The mean annual rainfall range between 900mm to 1300mm, influenced by temperature, which vary from 18°C in the period of December to May and 32°C in July to November.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The suitable time to visit the area is on the month of May to November before the heavy rains on the month of December to April, although the visitors are welcomed during heavy rains to experience and explore the beauty of nature.
HOW TO GET TO LUKWIKA - LUMESULE
The Reserve can be accessed by both roads of about 69 kms heading south of Mangaka main town of Nanyumbu district or chartered small airplane which can land at Masasi airstrip, then followed by a drive along Mangaka in Nanyumbu road to the reserve. Another option for visitors on chartered flight, visitors can land at Mtema upinde Airstrip located within the reserve.
Background information fact; by edgardowelelo@yahoo.com, Master of the Game
Mpanga – Kipengere Game Reserve (Tanzania’s Golden Garden), gazetted in October 2002, is one of the newest game reserves in Tanzania. The Reserve covers 1,574 km2, in the districts of Wanging’ombe, Makete and Mbarali in the Southern highlands. The highlands range in altitude up to 3,000 m, where the Kipengere Range borders Kitulo Plateau to the west. Mpanga – Kipengere Game Reserve’s diverse flora and fauna underscore its striking scenic beauty. A wide assemblage of large mammals, birds and butterflies thrive in the Reserve’s montane ecosystems. The Reserve is home to the spectacular
Kimani waterfalls and near the Nyumba Nitu forest, an important cultural site. The midrange mountains that converge in Mpanga – Kipengere make for dramatic tableau of highlands, plains and valleys that are also ideal for trekking, mountaineering and hiking. The region’s fertile valleys are home to numerous flowering plant species. The area is also rich in resident birds such as the Denham’s bustard and migratory birds such as blue swallows and abdim storks and the rare Fufumka bird.
TOURISM ATTRACTIONS
Kimani waterfalls.
The most famous of the waterfalls is located at Nyaugenge. The second waterfall, a cascade through rocky crags, is about 1 km Southeast of Nyaugenge. The third waterfall, known as Allan’s waterfall, is at Old IKOVO about 30 km from Nyaugenge.
The Kipengere Range and Mpanga Highlands
This constitute a special mountain wildland, among the grandest in the country. Mtorwi Mountain is the highest point of the Kipengere Range.
Mosaics of colorful flowers
Terrestrial orchids, Irises, red – hot pokers, asters, delphiniums, buttercups, aloes, Cephalaria spp, straw flowers, impatiens spp, ladies slippers (Commelina spp), Carnations, and many other flower species dominate the highland grasslands seasonally from November to March.
- Features of erosion remains along Kimani River create a dynamic, ever – changing landscape. Many locations along the river’s banks are painted by algae of all colors.
- The Reserve harbors a variety of fauna ranging from rodents and migratory birds to primates, leopards and elephants.
- Areas of the Reserve were used by Chief Mkwawa and his warriors as a hiding site during fights with other tribes and the Germans. Remains of grinding stones and pots used by the Hehe tribe can be found in the area. visitors may also see the ritual stones marking the border of Mkwawa’s chiefdom.
- The nearby Nyumba Nitu Forest in Mlevela village is a traditional sacred site for the indigenous people.
TOURISM ACTIVITIES
Trekking and Mountaineering
The Kipengere Range, Mpanga highlands and Lugala and Chafukwe Mountains are an ideal environment for mountains trekking and climbing, walking safaris and horse riding.
Bird watching
Catch a glimpse of some of the world’s rarest and most beautiful birds.
HOW TO GET THERE (Accessibility)
Mpanga – Kipengere Game Reserve can be accessed by railway and air. The highway from Dar es Saam to Mbeya passes along its northern boundary and provides easy and reliable access to the game reserve. The Reserve can also be accessed through the Tanzania – Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) scheduled trains from Makambako, Rujewaand Igurusi stations. This is a particularly beautiful way to survey the Reserve. There is no reliable airstrip within the Reserve but it is possible to fly to nearby airstrips in Ilembula, Chimala and Njombe and Songwe International Airport – Songwe Region.
Background information fact; by edgardowelelo@yahoo.com
ABOUT KIJERESHI GAME RESERVE (SIMIYU REGION)
Nestled within the Western Serengeti ecosystem, Kijereshi Game Reserve spans 66 kilometres square of vibrant open plains. Recognized as a conservation haven on June 10, 1994, the reserve’s allure lies in its rich array of resident wildlife and varied indigenous forests and grasslands. A pivotal segment of the Great Migration’s Western Corridor. Kijereshi witnesses a breathtaking spectacle from May to August: a colossal procession of approximately 2 million wildebeest and their offspring surging through the landscape in quest of nourishing pastures. This awe – inspiring event represents the planet’s most significant animal migration. As these herds conclude their Tanzanian journey, Kijereshi serves as their turning point before embarking on the Kenyan leg, only to retrace their steps back through the Serengeti National Park following the arid season.
GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION;
Positioned in Simiyu’s Busega and Bariadi districts, the reserve’s boundaries interlace with the Serengeti National Park, Lukungu, and several villages, forging a sanctuary of natural wonder.
WHY KIJERESHI GAME RESERVE?
- Thrilling natural environment and superb facilities of Kijereshi offer exceptional opportunities for visitors to feasibly explore attractions to their satisfaction.
- With its manageable size, Kijereshi can be covered in a short time, perfect for people on tight schedules.
- Conveniently located near airports/ airstrips offering an opportunity to visit for travellers in transit.
- Opportunity to visit other nearby attractions including Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere Museum at Butiama only 65km from the reserve’s entrance gate; the historical sites of the Ukerewe islands, about 117 km; proximity to the Sukuma people and opportunities to learn about the tribe’s culture.
TOURISM ACTIVITIES
- Game drives – bush and picnic meals included (hint: enjoy a Serengeti sunset and a night drive for an even more unforgettable experience)
- Guided nature walk – armed ranger service included.
- camping – (mobile, special and public) don’t forget firewood for your bonfire
- Bird watching – some of the best in the world
- Commercial photography / filming – no entry fees for camera
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
- Many and varied wildlife including elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, cheetah, giraffes, zebra, wildebeests, hyenas, elands, Thomson gazelle, topi, waterbuck, reedbuck, baboons, colobus monkey, and varieties of bird species including ostriches.
- Migratory herds of wildebeest, be assured to visit during calving season, and zebras from May to August depending on rainy season.
- Beautiful landscapes characterized by open acacia woodlands, wide plains and endless skies ideal for viewing the reserve’s wildlife.
HOW TO GET THERE?
The gate is east of Mwanza – Musoma road, between Lamadi (4km) and Bunda (19km) in Simiyu. Kijereshi is accessible by air through the Mwanza airport.
TOURIST FACILITIES
Inside the reserve, there are camping sites (special and public) and the Kijereshi Tented Camp at an affordable prices for all visitors. Visitors may also seek accommodation from hotels and camps outside the reserve in Mwanza, Musoma, Bariadi, Lamadi and Bunda.
