Are you ready to embark on a photographic adventure through the heart of Africa’s wilderness? Join us for an exclusive Gorilla Photography Workshop, where each day is fully designed around optimizing wildlife photography opportunities. From the misty rainforests of Bwindi to the far-reaching savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park, prepare to capture the raw beauty of Uganda’s diverse landscapes and its many inhabitants.
22 July 2024 - Destinations, Photo Safaris, Uganda
Highlights of a Uganda Photo Safari
Photo Credit: Kaleel Zibe
What Can You Expect to Photograph on a Uganda Photo Safari?
Uganda, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Africa’, is a land of varied landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich biodiversity. Venturing here on a photo safari will bring you close encounters with a variety of primates, as well as with giants of the savannah. With each camera click, you’ll capture the diverse character of this East African jewel. Here are a few highlights of a wildlife photography trip to Uganda.
1. Photographing Mountain Gorillas: A once-in-a-lifetime Experience
Undoubtedly, the highlight of a Uganda photo safari is the opportunity to encounter Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat. Guided by local expert trackers, you’ll embark on a trek through the dense forest, anticipating the moment you come face to face with these imposing creatures. Upon locating a gorilla family, you are granted an hour to quietly observe and photograph them.
While you’re with the gorillas, you have to keep a respectful distance of seven meters, ensuring minimal disturbance to the animals. However, this doesn’t mean there’s no way to get close up images. Because while we need to keep our distance, gorillas have no such rules, and they might decide to come right up to you. Either way, the photographic opportunities are phenomenal.
2. Diving into the Primate Paradise of Kibale Forest
Beyond the kingdom of Mountain Gorillas, Uganda is a haven for primate enthusiasts, given the great diversity of monkeys and apes, particularly in Kibale Forest. Moving into the deep greenery of this forest, photographers are treated to intimate encounters with numerous primate species, each presenting its own set of photographic challenges and rewards. These include chimpanzees, baboons, colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, and L’Hoest monkeys.
3. Enjoying the varied wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Uganda offers more than primates; it can also deliver a more traditional African photo safari. In the vast expanses of Queen Elizabeth National park, you’ll find yourself face to face with diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, lions, and a great variety of antelope, and a chance to photograph them against a backdrop of rolling savannahs. And along the waterside of the Kazinga Channel, you can also expect to photograph hippos, crocodiles, and rich birdlife.
4. Photographing Ishasha’s Tree-Climbing Lions
In Ishasha, the southwestern tip of Queen Elizabeth National Park, you might get a chance to take some unique images of lions. In this region, several lion prides have adopted the unusual behavior of climbing trees. They hang out in the branches of ancient fig trees in search of shelter and outlook points. For keen wildlife photographers, this can present some exciting opportunities.
What to Know Before Joining a Gorilla Photography Workshop
Before embarking on a photography workshop in Uganda, it’s good to know what to expect, and how to prepare yourself. Here are a few things you need to know before departure.
1. Ensure You’re Physically Prepared For Gorilla Trekking
While gorilla trekking is an amazing experience, it can be physically demanding. The trek typically covers rough terrain, and the length of the hike is entirely unpredictable, since the gorillas move freely. You may see a family after only 30 minutes of hiking, but it may also take quite a few hours before you encounter one. Local guides will obviously be there to assist you, and porters can help out if you struggle, but it’s best if you ensure you’re up for the challenge.
2. Elevate Your Photography Skills to Capture the Essence Of Uganda
Regardless of your proficiency level in photography, being prepared to seize the unique photographic opportunities presented during the trip is crucial. While we welcome photographers of all levels, including complete beginners, it’s important to ensure you have the suitable equipment for the journey. Get in touch with us to find out what gear we recommend.
3. Do Your Research to Make Sure You Pick a Trip That Suits You
Selecting the right trip involves more than just choosing a destination; it’s about finding an itinerary that resonates with your passions. Make sure to pick a photo safari that’s led by a professional photographer you’re keen to learn from; someone whose images you love and whose guidance you want to receive. Moreover, it’s good to look for trips that are guided by local guides with expert knowledge of Uganda’s wildlife – someone who can navigate the terrain, find and identify wildlife, and provide context to enrich your journey.
Photo Credit: Kaleel Zibe
Get Ready to Experience Uganda’s Nature through Your Lens
A Uganda Photo Safari is a diverse and adventurous photographic journey: it’s an opportunity for wildlife photography enthusiasts to capture this country’s vast diversity of animals in their stunning natural habitat. If you’re ready to book your trip, or if you’d like to find out more, feel free to reach out to us for a chat!
