Gorilla Habituation or Trekking which is best for gorilla photography

Are you planning to visit Mountain gorillas and take photographs so you want to know Gorilla Habituation or Trekking which is best for gorilla photography so that you decide which one to book. The Gorilla Habituation Experience is generally considered better for taking gorilla photographs than gorilla trekking because it offers more time with the gorillas: 

• Time

The habituation experience allows you to spend at least four hours with the gorillas, while gorilla trekking is usually limited to one hour. 

• Number of visitors

Only four people are allowed to participate in the habituation experience each day, compared to eight people for gorilla trekking. 

• Learning experience

The habituation experience provides more opportunities to learn about gorilla behavior and society from researchers and guides. 

However, some say that gorilla trekking is still a great way to take photographs of gorillas. Here are some tips for taking gorilla photos: 

• Prepare your camera

Bring a camera with a high ISO and a 70-200mm lens. You can also bring a 2.8 lens for low light conditions. Disable the flash on your camera. 

• Bring waterproof bags

It can rain at any time in the rainforest, so bring waterproof bags to protect your camera. 

• Plan your shots

You’ll have a limited amount of time with the gorillas, so plan your shots instead of shooting wildly. 

• Stay hydrated

Drink lots of water with rehydration salts before and during your trek. 

• Avoid alcohol

Alcohol has a greater effect at altitude, so avoid it the night before your trek.

For gorilla photography, the gorilla habituation experience can be a better choice than a standard gorilla trek. Here’s why:

1. Extended Time: The gorilla habituation experience allows up to 4 hours with the gorillas, compared to the 1 hour you get on a regular trek. This gives you more time to observe, wait for ideal lighting, and capture a variety of expressions and interactions.
2. Closer Interaction: During habituation, the gorillas are gradually acclimated to human presence, so they may be less likely to move away quickly, offering more opportunities for close-up shots and capturing natural behavior.
3. Fewer Visitors: Habituation groups usually allow fewer participants (often up to 4 people), so you have less competition for positioning and more freedom to move around for the best angles.
4. Natural Behavior: Habituation groups are less accustomed to tourists and can sometimes display more natural and dynamic behaviors, which can add authenticity and richness to your photos.

Gorilla Habituation or Trekking which is best for gorilla photography. On the other hand, regular trekking can still offer great photographic opportunities, especially if you’re lucky enough to find a gorilla group in a well-lit or open area. If you’re interested in the gorilla habituation experience for photography, here are a few tips to make the most of it:

1. Camera Settings:
   • ISO: Gorilla habitats can be dense and shaded, so set a higher ISO to allow faster shutter speeds without blur.
   • Shutter Speed: Aim for at least 1/250s to freeze motion, as gorillas can move quickly.
   • Aperture: Use a wide aperture (f/2.8 – f/5.6) for low light and a nice depth of field, making the gorillas stand out against the background.
2. Gear:
   • Lens: A telephoto lens (70-200mm or similar) is ideal for close-up shots without needing to be intrusive.
   • Stabilization: A camera with good image stabilization or a monopod can help manage low-light conditions.
   • Rain Gear: Bring weatherproof covers, as rain can be frequent.
3. Composition:
   • Capture Expressions: Look for emotions or interactions, such as eye contact or bonding moments between gorillas.
   • Surroundings: Include some foliage or forest elements in your frame for a natural, immersive effect.
4. Preparation:
   • Fitness: The habituation experience involves a longer time in the forest, so moderate fitness can help you keep pace.
   • Patience: With more time, you can wait for the right moment, so relax and observe the group dynamics closely.

The gorilla habituation experience is available in Uganda, specifically in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Currently, Uganda and DR Congo are the only destinations offering the gorilla habituation experience, as Rwanda offers standard trekking only.

Booking Details and Recommendations:

1. Permits:
   • Uganda’s habituation permit cost $1,500 USD, and this allows you up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla group.
   • These permits are limited, so booking well in advance is essential, especially during peak seasons (June-August and December-February).
2. Logistics:
   • Bwindi has multiple sectors, but the habituation experience is offered mainly in the Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors. Both are beautiful and rich in wildlife, but Rushaga tends to be more accessible for most travelers.
   • Accommodation can be arranged near these sectors, ranging from budget lodges to luxury stays. I can help suggest or find accommodations based on your preferences.
3. Additional Recommendations:
   • Consider pairing the habituation with a golden monkey trek in nearby Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for a more diverse primate experience.

3. Suggested Itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe/Kampala, then travel to Bwindi (either by road or domestic flight).
• Day 2: Gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi. Spend four hours with the gorillas, capturing memorable photographs.
• Day 3: Optional activities, such as a local village visit or birdwatching.
• Day 4: Depart from Bwindi back to Entebbe/Kampala.

Gorilla permit and what is included or excluded

A gorilla permit is a card issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority that allows you to go to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park home to endangered mountain gorillas to have a chance of viewing them for one hour. Gorilla permits are only valid for the date booked and once expired cannot be used. Make sure that you are available on the day of trekking. This gorilla permit includes spending one hour with a given habituated mountain gorilla family. During this one hour, you will be allowed to take still photos as wells simple videos. Please read our dos and don’ts while with mountain gorillas. You will also listen to an informative talk from your guide or the day. Included as well is services of a ranger guide and tourism police to ensure that security in the forest is guaranteed. The ranger from Uganda Wildlife Authority will be carrying a gun probably an AK47 to scare away any stray animal that may misbehave along the way. Park entry fees for Bwindi impenetrable National Park and or Mgahinga national park is also included in the pre-purchased gorilla permits and is valid for 24 hours.

Transport to and from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Eco Adventure Safaris operates a fleet of both Luxury Land cruisers for our high-end clients and Customized safari vans for those who want to spend less but travel comfortably. All our vehicles are 4×4 and are customized for the rough terrain in Africa. They come with drinking water and are driven by well trained and professional local driver guides. We will make sure that your travel with us is comfortable and foots the bill.

Flying to Kigali, Rwanda or Entebbe International Airport, Uganda

You will have an option of flying into Kigali or Entebbe to visit Uganda, Rwanda or Congo for gorilla trekking. Many people prefer flying into Kigali and trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi. The main reason for this is to avoid long drives involved from Entebbe. Check our Uganda safaris from Kigali and get back to us. Those that fly into Entebbe will enjoy a scenic drive that will see you stop at the equator crossing, a chance to have a look at the ankle long-horned cows as well as the rolling hills of Kigezi. Whichever Airport you will use, we will assist in airport transfers as well as transport to and from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

How to book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Through Eco Adventure Safaris?

Eco Adventure Safaris has positioned herself as one of the leading tour operators offering authentic and value-for-money gorilla treks to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga National Park, Virunga National Park and Volcanoes National Park. We endeavor to provide accurate and timely information that you can rely on to organize Gorilla trekking on New year in Africa. Our staff are always on standby to assist you with all the arrangements, and if you need more information about our service, please visit our website  for more information and options about Gorilla Habituation or Trekking which is best for gorilla photography