Overview – Niassa National Reserve

The Niassa Reserve in northern Mozambique, is the biggest reserve in Mozambique, with the best concentration of wildlife in the country. Niassa Reserve is bordered by the Rovuma River in the north (Tanzania border) and consolidates the mystical Lugenda River. It borders Nyerere National Park in Tanzania without fences, so creatures move uninhibitedly around this immense consolidated region. 

  • Wildlife10 Animals

  • High SeasonNever Busy

  • Best Time to GoJune to October

Pros & Cons

  • Amazing wildlife and birding experience
  • Unblemished, pristine wilderness
  • Complete exclusivity
  • No accommodation facility at present
  • Remote and hard to get to
  • Animals are sketchy and the wildlife density is very low

Niassa National Reserve Map in Africa

Niassa National Reserve Safari Reviews

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Wildlife & Animals – Niassa National Reserve

The reserve has plenty of mammals, and these are genuinely wild. Four of the Big Five are available. Better-known creatures, incorporate sable gazelle, a few thousand Cape buffalo, impala, wildebeest, zebra, elephant and leopard. Lions can be spotted now and then. There are a lot of elephants in the park.

Elephant

Elephant

Common
Hippo

Hippo

Common
Giraffe

Giraffe

Occasional
Buffalo

Buffalo

Occasional
Zebra

Zebra

Occasional
Sable Antelope

Sable Antelope

Common
Lion

Lion

Common
Leopard

Leopard

Rare

Wildlife Highlights

The most noteworthy thing about the wildlife is the number of inhabitants in Wild Dog, an amazingly endangered African predator – this surpasses 200, making it perhaps the best reserve for the vertebrates in Africa despite the fact that it isn't simple to track down them. Other animals that are particular to this space are the three endemic species, the Niassa wildebeest, Boehm's zebra and Johnston's impala.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

The best time to capture wildlife viewing is in the Dry season from May to October when animals are concentrated near lakes and other permanent water sources. At this time the vegetation is also thinner making sightings easier.

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Birds – Niassa National Reserve

For bird enthusiasts, Niassa has over 400 species of birds which include the rare Angola pitta, Pel’s fishing owl and abundant raptors. Riverine forest fringing the Lugenda River is a good place to look for Pel’s fishing owl and Böhm's bee-eater, and African skimmers can be seen flying over the river. The big granite domes support species like Verreaux’s eagle, lanner falcon and the rare Taita falcon.

Notable Birds in Niassa National Reserve

African grey hornbill

African grey hornbill
Taita falcon

Taita falcon
African skimmer

African skimmer
Pel’s Fishing Owl

Pel’s Fishing Owl

Best Time for Bird Watching

Niassa is an excellent region for Bird watching which can be visited around the year. However, the best time to visit is in the wet season from November to April. During this time migratory birds are present. As road conditions could be bad in the park during the rains, November is the ideal month for birders.

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Best Time to Visit – Niassa National Reserve

The best time for wildlife viewing is to visit in dry seasons from July to October when the animals are easier to spot as most water in the bush has dried out and parched animals assemble around a couple of water sources left. At this time the vegetation is also thinner making sightings easier. October is extremely hot, which is excessively awkward for individuals who would rather avoid the hotness.

  • Best Time

    June to October

  • High Season

    Never Busy

  • Low Season

    Never Busy

  • Best Weather

    April to August

  • Worst Weather

    November to March

May to October (Dry Season)

  • Amazing wildlife viewing opportunities
  • It is sunny, and there is little rain
  • Fewer mosquitoes and less chance of catching malaria
  • Warm clothes are recommended for the morning & evening chill weather
  • The bush looks dry and the scenery is less spectacular
  • October is unbearably hot

May to October (Wet Season)

  • Plenty of baby animals that attract predators
  • Birding is best as migratory birds are present
  • The scenery is beautiful and at its most lush
  • Very little downpour in November however it brings relief
  • Very hot & Humid climate
  • Park closes from mid-December to the end of April
  • Roads become bad and are sometimes impassable
  • Wildlife viewing is better in Dry Season

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Activities – Niassa National Reserve

Birding Safari

Birding Safari

Eager bird-watchers won't be disappointed on an African safari! This gray crowned crane was seen in the core of the Serengeti, Tanzania.
Cultural

Cultural

It is possible to take part in a cultural safari if you desire to spend your time visiting local schools, clinics, orphanages, and markets.
Farm Visits

Farm Visits

An incredible addition to any safari is taking the time to visit some of the local farms or plantations and sample some local produce.
Fishing

Fishing

Fishing safaris are especially famous in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Mozambique. River, lake and deep ocean fishing are all possible in Africa.
Game Drives

Game Drives

A game drive is an adventure that involves viewing wildlife from the comfort of a 4x4 open vehicle, providing you with a true safari experience.
Night Drives

Night Drives

Night game drives provide an opportunity to observe wildlife in action at night. Predators like lions, hyenas, and leopards become active at night.
Photography

Photography

Photography safaris are frequently led by experienced photographers who are dedicated to capturing the best shot possible.
Sightseeing

Sightseeing

Market visits are worthwhile before or after a safari. Locally made and sourced items make excellent souvenirs and great way to keep memories alive.
Walking Safaris

Walking Safaris

A safari bush walk is the best way to get some exercise and experience nature up close. Set out on an adventure with the wild inhabitants of Africa.

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Safari Reviews – Niassa National Reserve

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