In Mozambique’s far north lies one of Africa’s last great wildernesses — the Niassa Special Reserve, larger than Switzerland and the biggest protected area in Southern Africa. Inselberg-studded miombo woodland stretches to the horizon along the Lugenda River, sheltering significant populations of elephant, African wild dog, lion, sable and the endemic Niassa wildebeest and Boehm’s zebra. Infrastructure is minimal and access is by air to a few pioneering camps; the reward is raw, end-of-the-earth wilderness.
Ratings
Wildlife Density: ★★★★☆ Infrastructure: ★★☆☆☆ Photography: ★★★★☆
Adventure: ★★★★★ Exclusivity: ★★★★★ Value for Money: ★★★☆☆ Scenery: ★★★★☆
Location: Far northern Mozambique (Niassa & Cabo Delgado); fly-in via Pemba or Lichinga
Key wildlife: Elephant, wild dog, lion, sable, Niassa wildebeest, Boehm’s zebra
Best for: True wilderness, pioneers, walking safaris, exclusivity
Best time: June–October (dry season)
More about this reserve will be added here over time.
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