Niassa Wildlife Reserve

The Niassa Wildlife Reserve in northern Mozambique is one of Africas last wild places. Covering over 40,000 square kms (that is about twice the size of Kruger Park in South Africa) it is one of the largest conservation areas on the continent.

The terrain is dominated by the Rovuma and Lugenda rivers – crocodile and hippo filled waterways that meander their way through the reserve. Perhaps the most striking feature of the Niassa Reserve are the spectacular granite inselbergs that rise imperiously from the surrounding bush. The highest of these, the Mecula and Jao mountains, are almost a vertical kilometre from top to bottom.

The reserve contains by far the largest concentration of wildlife in Mozambique. Until Mozambique’s civil war ended in the early 1990’s the Niassa Wildlife Reserve remained completely untouched, and since then it’s protected status has seen increasing wildlife numbers – including lion, spotted hyaena, leopard, buffalo, and a healthy elephant population is distinguished for its big tuskers. This natural wealth, combined the magnificent scenery its sheer size makes the Niassa Reserve one of Africa’s last great wildernesses. 

There are three endemic herbivore species; Johnston’s impala, Niassa wildebeest and Boehm’s zebra. Like the Selous in Tanzania, Niassa Wildlife Reserve also contains a globally significant population of wild dog – one of the most sought after sightings on a safari.

Birdlife in Niassa Reserve is also impressive - there are over 400 species. Of particular interest are the Taita falcon, southern banded snake eagle, African skimmer, Stierlings woodpecker, and the rare Angolan pitta – all endangered species which have significant populations in the reserve.

Lugenda Bushcamp is a safari enthusiast’s dream. Simple and elegant, the thatch-roofed main building overlooks a big bend of the Lugenda River, beyond this, the horizon is dominated by the rugged Mecula Mountains which stand imperious over the arid scrub bush. More...

Moja Safari Wilderness offer walking and river-based safaris through the heart of the undiscovered Niassa Reserve in northern Mozambique. These safaris provide the ultimate wilderness experience within their vast privately managed concession along the magnificent Lugenda River. More…
 

* James has been to Niassa Wildlife Reserve most recently.