Mtemere Gate is a crucial entry point to the Selous Game Reserve and Nyerere National Park, providing easy access for tourists and employment opportunities for local communities. The gate also serves as an important revenue source for the government. Visitors to the reserve can enjoy a wide range of activities, including game drives, boat safaris, and birdwatching. The Mtemere Gate is an excellent starting point for exploring the wonders of Selous Game Reserve.
Selous Game Reserve is one of the largest game reserves in Africa, spanning over 50,000 square kilometers in southern Tanzania. The reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, crocodiles, and hippos, as well as over 400 bird species. With such a vast area, the reserve has several entry points, one of which is the Mtemere Gate. In this article, we will delve into the history and significance of Mtemere Gate.
Introduction
The Mtemere Gate is the northernmost entry point to the Selous Game Reserve. It is situated approximately 230 kilometers from Dar es Salaam, the largest city in Tanzania. Mtemere is the name of a small village located near the gate, and the name is derived from a tree species called “Mtemere” which is indigenous to the area.
History of Mtemere Gate
Mtemere Gate was officially opened in 1965, and it has been a major gateway to the Selous Game Reserve since then. The gate was initially used by hunters, who were granted permission to hunt in the reserve during the colonial era. However, with the establishment of the Selous Game Reserve in 1975, hunting was prohibited, and the gate began to be used for tourism purposes.
Significance of Mtemere Gate
Mtemere Gate is of significant importance to the Selous Game Reserve for several reasons. Firstly, it is the main entry point to the reserve for tourists coming from Dar es Salaam and other nearby cities. The gate provides easy access to some of the most popular tourist destinations in the reserve, such as Rufiji River, Lake Tagalala, and Stiegler’s Gorge.
Secondly, Mtemere Gate is also important for the local communities living around the reserve. The gate provides a source of employment for the villagers, who work as rangers, tour guides, and support staff for the tourists. The gate also serves as a revenue source for the government, as visitors pay entrance fees to the reserve.
Facilities at Mtemere Gate
Mtemere Gate has several facilities to cater to the needs of visitors, including a parking area, toilets, and a restaurant. The gate also has a visitor center where tourists can learn about the history and ecology of the reserve. The center has informative displays and exhibits about the wildlife, flora, and fauna of the reserve.
How to Get to Mtemere Gate
Mtemere Gate is accessible by road from Dar es Salaam and other nearby cities. The drive to the gate takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on the road conditions. Visitors can also fly to the reserve using the airstrip located near the gate.