Mountain Gorilla Trekking is one of the most engrossing wildlife experiences in the African Continent, although it is also considered one of the most costly adventures. The price of gorilla Permits alone can be able to fund an entire wildlife safari (especially involving other activities such as game drives, boat cruises and walking safaris) but the experience is worth every penny. Firstly, these Great Apes are only found in their natural habitats (Mgahinga, Virunga, Volcanoes and Bwindi National Parks) and not in any zoo like it is with other wildlife species. Every traveler planning to undertake a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda cannot miss to pack a good camera to capture every memorable moment of this extraordinary wildlife experience.
Uganda is undeniably an exceptional gorilla trekking destination with two places to meet these endangered Great Apes (Mgahinga Gorilla and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks) but gorilla photography is sometimes challenging given the thickness of Bwindi’s impenetrable forest which is not the case with Volcanoes National Park of neighboring Rwanda, which is sparser hence providing unforgettable memories. However, with the help of experience ranger guides, perfect angles can be attained for gorilla photography in Uganda.
The number one guideline to be followed during mountain gorilla photography in Uganda or any other National Park is using non-flash cameras because the flash startles the Giant Apes hence making them aggressive (charging by beating their chests and stomping their feet) and sometimes even physically attack visitors (although very rare).
Visitors are encouraged to maintain a physical distance of 7 meters during photography hence having zoom lens, wide angle lens and fixed focal lens to capture the best photos during your gorilla trekking safari might be helpful. Because the functionality of gadgets can’t sometimes be predicted and difficulty to swiftly change lenses, packing two cameras isn’t a bad idea. Additionally, make sure to pack a waterproof bag to keep your camera from rain, extra batteries and that the camera is fully charged before travelling to Uganda for the gorilla trekking safari.
Professional gorilla photography.
For travelers interested in professional gorilla photography; like journalists and documentary makers will be required to first purchase gorilla permits directly from Uganda Wildlife Authority or indirectly through a credible tour operator. We can book for your permit and entire gorilla safari including other inclusions of the trip such as accommodation and transport services.
Gorilla Photography permits for Uganda.
There is currently no specified price for gorilla photography permits because you can undertake photography during your booked gorilla safari. All you need is to book for your gorilla permit at $700 for foreign non-residents, $600 for foreign residents and Shs. 250,000 for East African residents. This guarantees one hour of photography with the habituated gorilla group.
However, if you seek for more hours of gorilla photography, you can book for the Gorilla Habituation Experience permit at $1500 allowing you to spend four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla group. Given the scarcity of gorilla permits, booking has to be done at least 3-4 months before the intended trekking date.
However, travelers interested in gorilla filming pay $4200 per person per hour and this doesn’t include the $700 gorilla permit cost.
Best time for Gorilla Photography in Uganda.
Mountain Gorilla Photography in Uganda is conducted throughout the year although clearer and most beautiful photos are attained during the dry season. This includes the months of January, February, June, July, August, September and December because during these months, vegetation is sparser (not very thick) and Bwindi forest’s slopes are not misty. Also, the hiking trails are not muddy and slippery hence easing movements during gorilla photography.
