A UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, Selous Game Reserve is a pristine, uninhabited area, twice as large as Switzerland. Only in the Serengeti will visitors see a greater concentration of wildlife. Yet Selous boasts Tanzania's largest population of Elephant as well as a large number of Lion, African Hunting Dog, Leopard, Buffalo and Hippo. Species commonly seen are Bushbucks, Red and Blue Duikers, Eland, Hartebeest, Hyena, Klipspringer, Impala, Giraffe, Oryx, Reedbuck, Waterbuck and Zebra.

The bird life in Selous is prolific and the 400 species recorded include the globally threatened Wattled Crane and the Corncrake. Black Rhino have been close to extinction, but can occasionally be seen in the area of ‘The Retreat’. The topography of Selous Game Reserve varies from rolling savannah woodlands, grassland plains and rocky outcrops intersected by the wide Rufiji and Ruaha Rivers.

The Retreat is a Tanzania game lodge in Selous with a lovely open-air spa right on the Ruaha River. It has been designed as a well-being retreat with an excellent spa and the added opportunity for Selous safari activities. For those looking for a Selous safari with a holistic approach, the Retreat is perfect.

Children:

Whilst the bush generally is not suitable for very young children, The Retreat welcome families with enthusiastic children, also ensuring that guests without children equally enjoy the peace and beauty of ‘The Selous Retreat’ undisturbed. Cognizant of safety and minimal disturbance to other guests, families with young children can enjoy an early dinner between 18.00 and 19.00 hrs. Children under 11 years of age must share a tent with either a parent or an adult guardian.