Msanjesi Game Reserve is a hidden gem in Tanzania located in the hinterlands of Nanyumbu District within the Mtwara Region, the entrance to the reserves is located a mere 2,5 kilometers from Mpombe village. This Reserve is bordered by several notable geographical landmarks and communities, making it an undiscovered treasure for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Msanjesi Game Reserve is bordered by districts such as Masai to the north and Newala to the east. The closest major city is Mtwara, which lies to the southeast near the Indian ocean, serving as an important access point for tourists to the region.
In close proximity to Msanjesi Game Reserve is the Selous Game Reserve now renamed as Nyerere national park designated as a national park in 2019. A UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the largest national park in Tanzania and also one of the world’s largest wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Selous Game Reserve is approximately 60 km to the southwest of Msanjesi and is acclaimed for its biodiversity includes the large population of elephants and African wild dog. More so, the reserve is also close to the Udzungwa Mountains National Park, known for its endemic species of plants and animals.
Msanjesi Game Reserve is home to a wide array of wildlife, making its a significant destination for wildlife safaris in Tanzania. The reserve host various species including elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, leopards, buffaloes and smaller antelopes such as bushbucks and impalas. The reserve is also home to various species of retiles such as crocodiles and snakes, can be found within the waterways and grasslands. Amazingly, Msanjesi Game Reserve is also home to a rich variety of bird species, attracting birdwatchers from around the world. The reserve is known for both migratory and endemic species.
Tourism activities at Msanjesi Game Reserve
The game reserve experiences two seasons: The dry season and the wet season. These seasons are what determine the activities that you can carry out while in Msanjesi because each season has activities that are carried out, that is some of the activities that are carried out during the wet season cannot be carried out during the dry season and the reverse is true.
Game drives
This is one of the most anticipated activities for every tourist who visits the Msanjesi Game Reserve. Msanjesi Game Reserve has a large number of animals that can be seen during the game drive. You will be provided with an open roof van for easy viewing of the animals and an experienced tour guide to take you around the reserve. Some of the animals that are found in Msanjesi Game Reserve include wild dogs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, buffalos, kudus, crocodiles, impalas and waterbucks among others. The best time for game drives is during the dry season (June to October) and the drives are best done in the morning before 11 and in the afternoon hours around 3pm when the heat is still bearable.
Guided walking safaris
Guided walking safaris inside Msanjesi Game Reserve will give you an opportunity to enjoy an up-close encounter with Mother Nature as you appreciate the beauty and serenity of this remote but beautiful Reserve.
Bush meals and Sundowners
Msanjesi Game Reserve facilities and the beautiful wilderness give an excellent opportunity to enjoy a sundowner at a scenic spot or having a romantic candlelit dinner in the bush.
Photography tours
The rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of Msanjesi Game Reserve offers excellent opportunities for photographers. Specialized photography tours can be arranged to capture the essence of African wildlife and landscapes.
Cultural experiences.
Visitors can engage with local communities to learn about the traditions, customs and daily lives of the indigenous people around the Reserve.
Birdwatching
With a diverse range of bird species, birdwatching from designated spots or guided walks can be a rewarding experience for nature lovers. While on your Tanzania birding tour in Msanjesi Game Reserve, you will have the chance to view different colorful birds such as African fish eagle, malachite kingfisher, pied kingfisher, martial eagle, tawny eagle and giant kingfisher among others.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Msanjesi Game Reserve is during the dry season, which generally runs from June to October. During this period, animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is also more temperate and pleasant doe outdoor activities. The wet season (November to May), while offering lush vegetation and blooming flora, can make access more challenging due to muddy roads and dense foliage. however, this period may also present opportunities to witness newborn wildlife.
How to get to Msanjesi Game Reserve
To access Msanjesi Game Reserve, one typically travels from the city of Mtwara. The journey can be undertaken via a combination of road transport methods, including private vehicles, taxi or organized tours. The road conditional can vary, so its advisable to use Four-Wheel- Drive Vehicle, especially during the rainy season.
Tourists can sloe fly into Mtwara airport from major Tanzanian cities like Dar es Salaam, followed by a road trip to the reserve.
Where to stay
Currently, there are no developed accommodations with the reserve. whereas visitors are allowed to camp within the reserve, but only when it’s open to the public. Campers have to be completely self-sufficient. Everything from water to tents and gear needs to be brought with. There are Meru-style tents, with a mess tent and facilities, set-up for those that have signed up for private safari experiences.
Visiting Msanjesi Game Reserve can also be joined with exploring other destinations like Nyerere national park. Visiting this national park offers a wide range of activities that give visitors opportunities to enjoy its beauty. Some of the most popular activities include game drives, bird watching, walking safaris and boat safaris. The many waterways in the park provide an excellent natural setting for boat safaris, both for big game viewing and bird watching. Tourists visiting Nyerere National Park may book these activities below in advance of their visit to Tanzania.
Contact our trusted tour operators for more information about Msanjesi Game Reserve and Book with our tours and travel companies such as; Focus East Africa Tours who offer the best tour packages while on your safari in Tanzania
