This little known reserve happens to be the second largest game reserve in Africa, and it is A World Heritage Site. Over 21,000 square miles (55,000km2) in area, the Selous is more than half the size of the state of Ohio, twice the area of Denmark and 3.75 times larger than Serengeti National Park. Unexploited and largely unexplored, no human habitation is allowed in this virgin bush, except at limited tourist facilities.
The Selous is a stronghold for over 50,000 elephant, 150,000 buffalo (herds often exceed 1000), and large populations of lion, leopard, hartebeest, greater kudu, hippo, crocodiles and numerous other species, including giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, waterbuck, African wild dogs, impala, and a small number of black rhino. Colobus monkey can be found in the forests along the Rufiji River. Over one million large animals live within its borders. Over 350 species of birds and 2,000 plant species have been recorded.

Almost 75% of this low lying reserve is composed of miombo woodlands, with a balance of grasslands, floodplains, marshes and dense forests.

Morning walks accompanied by an armed ranger and guide are popular and are conducted by some of the camps. Fly-camping for a few nights is also available from select camps.

This reserve can give you the feeling of exploring the bush for the first time, because you will encounter relatively few other visitors during your safari.