2. Double Room Roho
Camps & Lodges

Roho ya Selous

Nyerere (The Selous), Tanzania

Enquire

Roho ya Selous sits in the very heart of Nyerere National Park (formerly The Selous), a stone’s throw from a palm-fringed tributary of Tanzania's Rufiji River.

About Roho ya Selous

On a small peninsula overlooking Lake Nzerakera, Roho ya Selous is in the heart of Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), the largest reserve in Africa and home to one of the biggest populations of wild dogs on the continent. 

  • Calendar

    Open: June to Mid-March
    Closed: Mid-March to end May

  • Airplane

    Closest airstrip: June to November: Beho Beho, 90-minute drive from camp. December to March: Mtemere, 90-minute drive from camp

  • 1 Families

    Families: children aged five and older

7. The Loung And Bar Area Roho
16. Coffe Stop On The Lake Roho

Accommodation at Roho ya Selous

Take a look around

  • 1. Exterior View Of Doubel Room

    Welcome to your bedroom at Roho ya Selous

  • 2. Double Room Roho

    Your bedroom at Roho ya Selous with views of the wilderness surrounding you

  • 4. Family Room Roho

    Roho ya Selous - A look at the children's room in your family tent

  • 3. Desk Set Up In Room Roho

    Details of your bedroom at Roho ya Selous

  • 5. Double Bathroom, Inside And Outside Shower Roho

    Roho ya Selous - The spacious bathroom with a stunning outdoor shower for you to enjoy

  • 7. The Loung And Bar Area Roho

    Roho ya Selous - The open and airy lounge area

  • 8. Breakfast In Camp Roho

    Roho ya Selous - Breakfast is served!

  • 10. Sunset Bbq Roho

    Roho ya Selous - A beautiful moment enjoying dinner outside

  • 9. Chef Serving Lunch Roho

    Roho ya Selous - Lunch being prepared by one of our wonderful chefs

  • 21. Bush Breakfast Roho

    Roho ya Selous - Enjoying brunch on the bonnet of your game drive vehicle in the wilderness

  • 12. Afternoon Tea Roho

    Roho ya Selous - Tea-time is a delicious affair full of treats and nibbles!

  • 16. Coffe Stop On The Lake Roho

    Roho ya Selous - Explore the waterways with us

  • 17. Guided Walks Roho

    Roho ya Selous - head out on foot for a walking safari to discover the secrets of the land

  • 18. PL Selous Lion Through Tree

    Roho ya Selous - A liones rests for a moment during the heat of the day

  • 19. Selous Giraffe River Reflections RR

    Roho ya Selous - A tower of giraffe make their way through the waterways of Nyerere National Park

  • 20. Selous Wild Dog RR

    Roho ya Selous - A pack of wild dog spotted while out exploring the region

  • 6. Shower And Elephant Spot Roho

    Roho ya Selous - can you imagine experiencing something this magical?

  • 13. Roho Ya Selous The Pool

    Roho ya Selous - Cooling off in the pool is a great way to spend the afternoon

  • 14. Roho Ya Selous Walking Guide Showing Guest A Lion Track And Footprint

    Roho ya Selous - A walking safari brings you closer to wildlife and provides a deeper understanding of the ways of the land

  • 15. Boating Safari Roho

    Roho ya Selous - Explore the waters of the Rufiji River with us on a boating safari

  • Fishing At Sunrise Roho
    Boating Safaris in Nyerere National Park | 360° Virtual Tour 360

    Boating Safaris in Nyerere National Park | 360° Virtual Tour

  • Hyena In The Mara
    Lone Hyena in Nyerere National Park (The Selous) | 360° Virtual Tour 360

    Lone Hyena in Nyerere National Park (The Selous) | 360° Virtual Tour

  • Selous Dawn Breaking Horizon RR
    Fish Eagles in Nyerere National Park | 360° Virtual Tour 360

    Fish Eagles in Nyerere National Park | 360° Virtual Tour

  • 19. Selous Giraffe River Reflections RR
    The Roho ya Selous Experience | 360° Virtual Tour 360

    The Roho ya Selous Experience | 360° Virtual Tour

Previous
Next

Accommodation

Accommodation & Amenities

Relax in our open-sided, canvas-roofed dining or lounge areas while reading a book or keep an eye out for wildlife around the lake. In the afternoons, take a dip in the pool to stay cool. In the evening, gather around the campfire with fellow guests to share safari tales before enjoying dinner surrounded by the sounds of the bush.

  • Tents

    8 stretch canvas tents (including 1 family tent)

  • 3 En Suite Bathrooms

    En-suite bathrooms

  • 13 Shower 2

    Hot water showers

  • 24 Flushing Toilets

    Flushing toilets

  • 35 Air Conditioning 2

    Over-bed “evening breeze” cooling system

  • 71 Private Swimming Rooftop

    Swimming pool

  • 25 Laundry

    Complimentary laundry service

  • 26 Solar&Generatorpower 2

    Solar power, with back-up generator

  • 6 In Room Safe 2

    In-room lockable box

  • Wifi

    Wi-Fi

accommodation

Rooms

Relax in our open-sided, canvas-roofed dining or lounge areas while reading a book or keep an eye out for wildlife around the lake. In the afternoons, take a dip in the pool to stay cool. In the evening, gather around the campfire with fellow guests to share safari tales before enjoying dinner surrounded by the sounds of the bush.

1. Exterior View Of Doubel Room
3. Desk Set Up In Room Roho

LOCATION

Location of Roho ya Selous

In the heart of Nyerere National Park — the largest reserve in Africa — Roho ya Selous is perfectly positioned for excellent game viewing, close to a key waterway that links Lake Manze to Lake Nzerakera. Here, pods of hippos wallow and fish eagles scan the landscape from their perches. Giraffes wander through camp on their way to the water and impala graze on the grass around our tents.  

Nyerere is a different type of environment to the grassy plains of northern Tanzania. This is a marshy landscape of palm trees, lakes and rivers and is home to elephants, buffalos, lions, hippos, leopards and one of the largest populations of wild dogs on the planet. Plus, bird enthusiasts can try and spot the more than 400 recorded bird species, including a good number of Pel’s fishing owls, in the region. Despite the excellent game, there are far fewer visitors here than in the Serengeti, making the safari experience feel much more exclusive. 

16. Coffe Stop On The Lake Roho
2. Double Room Roho

Experiences

Simple and stylish

The name Roho ya Selous means ‘heart of the Selous’, and that’s exactly where we are. Balancing adventure with plenty of comfort, the camp offers seasoned travellers an authentic safari experience in Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve).

10. Naboisho Camp Fly Camping Guest Staff
11. Naboisho Camp Walking Safari

Experiences

A typical day on safari at Roho ya Selous

The best time for game viewing is in the cooler early mornings and late afternoons, when animals are at their most active. Depending on the season, your day may start slightly earlier or later. If you have booked a private vehicle, please discuss schedule preferences with your guide. 

A day at Roho ya Selous starts with an early wake-up call and a cup of tea or coffee. Have some breakfast at camp or have your meal packed to enjoy on your morning game drive. You’ll be back in camp in time for lunch. 

The afternoon is time to rest. Read a book, take a dip in the pool or have a siesta. Refuel with afternoon tea before heading out on to the lake, where you can sip a G&T onboard our boat. Round off the perfect day with drinks around the campfire and a leisurely dinner.  

Guide Education in Nyerere National Park
21. Bush Breakfast Roho

Experiences

Game drives

We have seven-seater, open-sided game vehicles for exploring further afield in the reserve and getting closer to large herbivores and predators. The vehicles have canvas roofs, power points and fridges — everything needed to stay comfortable out in the bush for as long as you like. 

16. Coffe Stop On The Lake Roho
20. Selous Wild Dog RR

Experiences

Walking safaris

Head out on foot for an intimate exploration of the Selous. Stop and examine the tiniest creatures, such as ants and butterflies, and learn about tracking animals using their prints and dung. Plus, there’s the excitement of getting close to large animals as they pass by. 

17. Guided Walks Roho

Experiences

Boating

One of the things that separates Nyerere from other major Tanzanian parks is its boating safaris. From a safe distance, float past crocodiles on the sandbanks and hippos in the shallows, watching elephants come down to drink and birds nesting on the islands. 

15. Boating Safari Roho

Experiences

Photographic safari

Roho ya Selous is home to one of our specially modified photographic vehicles. The open vehicle allows keen amateurs and professional photographers alike to shoot at eye level with wildlife. It is equipped with all the gear to ensure award-winning shots — from beanbags and camera rests to 360° swivel seats. You can read more about the vehicle here. Please enquire to ensure availability of the vehicle and confirm any additional fees.  

9. Naboisho Photographic Vehicle Open Sides
8. Naboisho Photographic Vehicle With Guide

Experiences

Fishing

Combine a boat safari with a spot of fishing. The rivers hold a good population of tiger fish and various types of catfish. 

Fishing At Sunrise Roho

Experiences

Family safaris

We warmly welcome families with children over 5 at Roho ya Selous. The ease of access makes the reserve a fuss-free destination. We have a family tent with an enclosed en suite children’s room, ideal for younger kids, and a range of activities to keep the whole family entertained. Please note that guests must be 16 years old to join our walking safaris, but there is no age limit for game drives or boat safaris. Please ask your agent about the option of hiring a private vehicle for your family safari. 

Walking Safari With Kids Mara Bush Houses

When to go

What to expect during the year

Nyerere National Park is a brilliant park to visit throughout the year. For the best wildlife viewing, visit between June and October’s dry season. For water-based activities, come from November to March when the rains have filled the rivers. Roho ya Selous is closed for the long rains that fall from March until the end of May.

  • January - March

    Why travel at this time

    This period is great for boating and fishing, as the rains have recently flooded the rivers. It’s also ideal for birding, with migratory species in the park, and for photography, with lush landscapes and dramatic sunsets and sunrises. Roho ya Selous closes from mid-March, when the park becomes tricky to traverse.

    Climate

    It rains a little in January and February, though not consistently, with the long rains beginning in March. It’s hot and humid, with an average maximum temperature of 30°C/86°F and an average low of 22°C/72°F.

    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 22°C / 72°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 30°C / 86°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 191mm / 7.5in

  • April - June

    Why travel at this time

    Roho ya Selous is closed until the end of May, reopening in June when the park has dried up again. June is a good month to visit, as it’s just before high season rates kick in and travellers descend into the area.

    Climate

    It’s a little cooler and less humid in June, with an average high of 27°C/81°F and a low of 18°C/64°F.

    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 18°C / 64°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 27°C / 81°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 121mm / 0.5in

  • July - September

    Why travel at this time

    The dry season is the best time for game viewing as they gather around the waterholes of the Selous. Conditions are clear and sunny.

    Climate

    There’s very little rainfall in the dry season. Temperatures range from a maximum of 26°C/79°F in July to 29°C/84°F in September. The average low hovers from 17°C/63°F to 19°C/66°F.

    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 18°C / 64°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 29°C / 84°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 11mm / 0.4in

  • October - December

    Why travel at this time

    It’s still fairly dry in October. The short rains begin in November, flooding the rivers so water-based activities can resume and reviving the park’s vegetation. The migratory birds begin to arrive from Europe and Asia.

    Climate

    Rains usually begin in November and continue into December, though not continuously. There are enough breaks in the rain to enjoy your game drives. The temperature hits a maximum average of 31°C/88°F in November — the hottest time of year — with an average low of 22°C/72°F.

    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 22°C / 72°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 31°C / 88°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 69mm / 2.7in

Guest reviews

Absolutely fantastic! The camp is in a beautiful setting and the reality matches the brochure. Waking up to the sound of birdsong and the roar of the hippos will stay with our 15,13,11 year olds for ever...as well as us parents. Excellent food and the staff are simply delightful. Thank you Sabass, Aden and their lovely team. special mention to for Felix our guide...his knowledge, patience and infectious enthusiasm will last long in the memory. It is a trip of a lifetime.
Jonny_Shings
Tripadvisor 1
We had a fantastic stay at Roho. Our 'tent' was brilliant, right in the thick of it - waking up to bird song, going to sleep to hippos wrestling and even spotting an elephant chewing its way through the trees. The guiding was brilliant - Felix was very knowledgable and entertaining. We learned and laughed a lot. The service and food was far beyond what we expected at a camp and we enjoyed the camp fires too.  I'd highly recommend spending at least two nights here if you visit Tanzania.
emilyhorswell
Tripadvisor 1
We had the pleasure of staying at Roho ya Selous in September 2019 - its an amazing tented camp! The accommodation is glamping at its best! That cool air system over the bed works a treat - nights were never uncomfy! The staff are great - the guides are brilliant! Thank you to Mashaka for your expert guiding, driving, knowledge and hospitality. The wildlife is plentiful - there is always something to see - and the terrain in September was dry enough to allow us to travel easily around the national park.  A great place to stay, good location, lovely staff, GREAT food! and the best possible mix of animals/wildlife on your doorstep - highly recommended!
DAJ162
Tripadvisor 1

Special offers

Special offers now available

• Special Offers •

Rates

When would you like to go?

Below, choose your travel dates for an estimated accommodation cost per person sharing, or scroll down for a table of high and low season rates.

Additional information

  • Rate includes

    Full-board accommodation, house drinks, game drives, guided walks, boating safaris, fishing, transfers to/from nearest airstrip, limited laundry service

  • Rate excludes

    Park and concession fees, transfers other than to/from nearest airstrip, flights and airport taxes, gratuities and items of a personal nature, private vehicles

  • Budget factors

    Special offers may apply. Contact us for the best available rates. Last minute offers and long-stay rates may apply.

Rates and Seasonality

  • Low season: 01 Nov 2023 - 19 Dec 2023 Rate: US$834

    What to expect

    • Great birding with many migratory species
    • Regular wild dog sightings
    • Fantastic boat exploration
    • Increased chance of afternoon showers
    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 22°C / 72°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 31°C / 88°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 69mm / 2.7in

  • High season: 20 Dec 2023 - 05 Jan 2024 Rate: US$1069

    What to expect

    • High chance of afternoon showers
    • Great boating and fishing
    • Cooler weather for walking
    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 22°C / 72°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 30°C / 86°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 200mm / 7.9in

  • Low season: 06 Jan 2024 - 14 Mar 2024 Rate: US$834

    What to expect

    • Great birding with many migratory species
    • Increased wild dog sightings
    • Fantastic boat exploration on the flooded channel
    • High chance of afternoon showers
    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 22°C / 72°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 30°C / 86°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 191mm / 7.5in

  • Closed: 15 Mar 2024 - 31 May 2024 Rate: US$0

    Season closure

  • Low season: 01 Jun 2024 - 30 Jun 2024 Rate: US$897

    What to expect

    • Green and lush
    • Great birding with many migratory species
    • Fantastic boat explorations post-rains
    • Drying out as July approaches
    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 18°C / 64°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 27°C / 81°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 12mm / 0.5in

  • High Season: 01 Jul 2024 - 31 Aug 2024 Rate: US$1149

    What to expect

    • Perfect for seeing crocodiles and hippo
    • Best time for cat sightings
    • Great fishing for cat fish and tiger fish
    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 18°C / 64°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 29°C / 84°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 11mm / 0.4in

  • Low season: 01 Sep 2024 - 19 Dec 2024 Rate: US$897

    What to expect

    • Great birding with many migratory species
    • Regular wild dog sightings
    • Fantastic boat exploration
    • Increased chance of afternoon showers
    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 22°C / 72°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 31°C / 88°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 69mm / 2.7in

  • High season: 20 Dec 2024 - 05 Jan 2025 Rate: US$1149

    What to expect

    • High chance of afternoon showers
    • Great boating and fishing
    • Cooler weather for walking
    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 22°C / 72°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 30°C / 86°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 200mm / 7.9in

  • Low season: 06 Jan 2025 - 14 Mar 2025 Rate: US$897

    What to expect

    • Great birding with many migratory species
    • Increased wild dog sightings
    • Fantastic boat exploration on the flooded channel
    • High chance of afternoon showers
    • Min Temp Range

      Low Temp: 22°C / 72°F

    • Max Temp Range

      High Temp: 30°C / 86°F

    • Rainy Seasons

      Rainfall: 191mm / 7.5in

  • Closed: 15 Mar 2025 - 31 May 2025 Rate: US$0

    Season closure

WILDLIFE

Roho ya Selous wildlife

  • Lion

    Ruaha National Park Lioness With Cub Down Eric Frank MR
  • Elephant

    Ruaha 24
  • African Fish Eagle

    fish eagle 1
  • Hippo

    18. Hippos Rubondo Island
  • Giraffe

    Giraffe-Ruaha-National-Park-Marius-Swart-LR-copy.jpg
  • Zebra

    Olakira Camp Zebra Portrait
  • Greater Kudu

    Greater Kudu Shutterstock 166220447
  • Wild Dog (Rare)

    Wild Dog
  • Leopard (Rare)

    George Turner Ruaha 22
  • Buffalo

    Buffalos Serengeti Safari
  • Crocodile

    Nile Crocodile
  • Pel's Fishing Owl (Rare)

    Pel's Fishing Owl Shutterstock 643996864
  • Colobus Monkey (Rare)

    Black And White Colobus Monkey, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
  • Eland

    Common Eland 4361428 1920

ITINERARY

Southern Tanzania and Zanzibar Combined

Explore the wildlife-rich and unspoilt wilderness areas of southern Tanzania’s game reserves on safari, before hopping by plane to the island of Zanzibar for days spent snorkelling on tropical reefs and enjoying sandbank picnics. Explore the waterways and plains of Nyerere National Park by boat, vehicle and on foot, before searching for big cats in Ruaha National Park, home to 10 percent of Africa’s lion population.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the best time of year for game viewing at Roho ya Selous?

    For the best wildlife viewing, visit between June and October’s dry season. For water-based activities, come from November to March when the rains have filled the rivers. Roho ya Selous is closed for the long rains that fall from March until the end of May.

close
Maa Beadwork Newsletter Signup
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER Join our monthly newsletter. Stay in touch and travel when ready.
Conde Nast Traveller Reader's Choice Awards
Responsible Tourism Tanzania
Fair Trade Tourism
Travel + Leisure 2019
World Tourism Awards