4 Days Tanzania Safari Serengeti and Ngorongoro
The Ivy River Trail in Nkuringo Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
How to photograph Gorillas in Africa. Photographing gorillas in Africa can be a life-changing experience. This is done in Uganda to photograph Mountain Gorillas, Rwanda photograph Mountain Gorillas and DR Congo photograph Mountain Gorillas, Eastern and Western Lowland Gorillas. Here’s a guide to help you capture stunning images of gorillas in their natural habitat while respecting the animals and their environment:
Preparation
- Choose the Right Location:
- Popular gorilla trekking destinations include Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mgahinga), Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park), and Congo (Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega National Parks).
- Select Appropriate Gear:
- Camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with good low-light performance.
- Lenses: A zoom lens (70-200mm or 100-400mm) for close-ups and a wide-angle lens for habitat shots.
- Extras: Extra batteries, memory cards, and a rain cover for your camera.
- Tripod/Monopod: Useful for steady shots in low light but may be cumbersome in dense forests.
- Understand the Rules:
- Keep at least 7 meters (21 feet) away from gorillas.
- No flash photography—it can startle the animals.
- Follow the guide’s instructions at all times.
During the Trek
- Be Prepared for Challenging Conditions:
- Trekking can be strenuous, with steep and muddy trails.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, long sleeves, and gloves to protect against nettles and insects.
- Adapt to the Lighting:
- Forests can be dim; increase your ISO (400-1600) to ensure faster shutter speeds.
- Use a wide aperture (f/2.8 to f/5.6) for better light capture and a blurred background.
- Keep Your Camera Ready:
- Gorillas may move suddenly; have your camera settings pre-adjusted.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
- Focus on the Eyes:
- The eyes convey emotion and are the focal point of any wildlife portrait.
- Frame the Subject:
- Use natural elements like leaves or branches to create depth and context.
- Be Patient:
- Observe gorillas’ behavior for natural and candid moments.
- Capture Behavior:
- Photograph interactions like feeding, grooming, or playful activities.
- Take Habitat Shots:
- Show the environment to give a sense of scale and setting.
Ethical Considerations
- Respect Wildlife:
- Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that might stress the gorillas.
- Limit Contact:
- If a gorilla approaches, stay still and avoid direct eye contact.
- Health Precautions:
- Avoid trekking if you are unwell to prevent transmitting diseases to the gorillas.
Post-Trek Tips
- Edit Your Photos:
- Adjust brightness, contrast, and sharpness to enhance your images.
- Share Responsibly:
- Use your photos to promote conservation and awareness.
- Backup Your Work:
- Save your photos on multiple devices or cloud storage.
Best time to photograph Gorillas in Africa
Trekking and photographing gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo is done and is possible all year round. The best months include; June to August and December to February since they receive the lowest rainfall and the forest is less slippery. On the other hand, when you happen to travel during March to May and November there are chances of higher rainfall, you will be able to get discounts from some lodges for your accommodation.
Both countries provide fantastic experiences, but your choice may depend on your budget and preference for trail difficulty. If you need assistance planning, I can help customize a trek based on specific needs.
A Comparison between Uganda, Rwanda and Congo to photograph Gorillas in Africa
Gorilla trekking in Uganda Compared to Rwanda and Congo, are you planning to visit Africa for Gorilla Trekking, Gorilla Trekking in Africa is only done in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo which host the four national parks that are home the only remaining mountain gorillas. In Congo you as well have an opportunity to see the Eastern Lowland gorillas which are found in Kahuzi Beiga National Park. Gorilla Trekking in Africa is one of the once in a lifetime experience that attracts many travelers to do during their visit to Africa. Despite the high costs, time and discomfort from booking to doing the hike through the forest to search for these endangered apes watching gorillas in their natural habitat in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo is one of the best wildlife experiences every traveler would do on his/her safari.
The whole truth is that Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic republic of Congo have gorillas and there is no big difference when it comes to the experience obtained at the end of your trek. However, there are many things you can base on to compare gorilla trekking between these countries Gorilla trekking in Uganda Compared to Rwanda and Congo for you to choose where to book and go for your gorilla trekking and these include the following;
Comparing the cost for Gorilla Trekking permits in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic republic of Congo; Gorilla trekking is much cheaper in Congo compared to Uganda and Rwanda. This issue of price difference is basically out of policy difference between these three countries Congo, Uganda and Rwanda. Rwanda wants to promote itself as a Luxury destination while Uganda wants to market itself as an affordable destination. Congo is trying to promote its gorilla tourism to attract more travelers after a long turmoil in the region that caused a lot of insecurity. Whereas Uganda is promoting it’s self as the preferred best affordable destination for gorilla trekking among the 3. The experience and duration spent with gorillas is still the same in the all the 3 countries? Gorilla trekking in Uganda Compared to Rwanda and Congo
The Gorilla permit in Uganda Costs $800 Per person per trek for the Foreign non residents, $700 Per person for residents and $77 (Ugx 300,000) for East African Citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi and South Sudan), this gives you an opportunity to spend one-hour encounter with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
The Gorilla permit in Rwanda Costs $1500 Per person per trek for the Foreign non residents, $500 Per person for foreign residents and $200 for East African Citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi and South Sudan), this gives you an opportunity to spend one hour encounter with the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
A gorilla permit in Congo costs $400 per person per trek for the high season months of Mid-December to mid-march then June to October and then $200 for the low season months of mid-march to mid-May and then mid-October to mid-December every year. A gorilla permit in Kahuzi Beiga National Park costs $400 for foreign non residents, $200 for East Africa Residents and $20 national resident. Lowland Gorilla trekking permit price in Congo Kahuzi Biega National Park costs USD400 for Non Residents, East African Residents-USD200 and National Citizens of Congo-USD20
In terms of Lodges, Both Countries have Budget, Mid Range and Upmarket Lodges where you could choose to stay during your trek. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is the best place for gorilla trekking for those interested in staying in super luxury lodges on international standards compared to Bwindi. These lodges offer great and luxury services some are ranked among the best in Africa and the country at large for example Bisate Lodge and Singita Kwitonda Lodge in Volcanoes National Park. However for those looking for much budget offers then Uganda and Congo is best option for you given the fact there are many options to choose from where to stay ranging from $30 to $100 as per your booked package.
In terms of Gorilla families, Uganda has more gorilla families open for trekking than Volcanoes National Park. Bwindi has 20 habituated gorilla family groups this means 160 Gorilla permits are available every day for gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Volcanoes National Park has 12 Gorilla families hence 96 Gorilla permits are available each day for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Congo has 10 gorilla families that is 8 in Virunga National Park and 2 in Kahuzi Beiga National Park. This makes it more flexible to get gorilla trekking permits in Uganda compared to Rwanda and Congo especially during the peak season months.
In terms of the best gorilla trekking experience, the whole truth is that Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo have gorillas and there is no big difference when it comes to the experience obtained at the end of your trek. Chances of seeing gorillas in all countries are 98% so which ever country you visit you will be able to see these great apes in their natural environment. However Uganda is unique given the fact you an option to spend more time with the mountain gorillas through Gorilla habituation experience which is only done in Bwindi forest, a gorilla habituation permit costs $1500 per person giving you an opportunity to spend 4 hours encounter with the semi habituated mountain gorillas under the guidance of trackers and researchers as opposed to one hour for the normal trekking. Congo as well gives you a unique opportunity to see the Eastern Lowland gorillas which are found in Kahuzi Beiga National Park.
In terms of distance to see Gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic republic of Congo, What is the best way to travel to the Mountain Gorillas. The issue of walking longer or short distance depends on the given gorilla family allocated to you on the day of trekking at of the national park in the country you choose to go for gorilla trekking. In all the 3 countries gorilla families are allocated depending on the interest and physical fitness of given individual. If for example, you want a shorter trek, you will have to inform the park authorities on the very day of trekking so that you are allocated such family. If you want a medium or longer trek, then you do the same. It should be noted that while they will try to give you a family that requires shorter walks, the behavior of gorillas might affect the experience if for example gorillas decide to move further as you look for them you will need to move a longer distance still.
Below is the summary of what to pack for a gorilla photo safari;
Clothing
Long-sleeved shirts and long pants: To Protect your skin from thorny plants and insect bites.
Waterproof jacket: The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to stay dry during the trek.
Sturdy hiking boots: Ensure they are broken in to avoid blisters.
Gaiters: To keep mud and insects out of your boots.
Gardening gloves: For protection while navigating through the forest.
Hat and sunglasses: For sun protection.
Gear
Backpack: To carry your essentials.
Camera and binoculars: For capturing the experience (ensure you have extra batteries and memory cards).
Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial.
Walking stick: Some lodges provide these, but you may want to bring your own.
Poncho or rain cover for your backpack: To keep your gear dry.
Personal Items
Insect repellent: To protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
Sunscreen: High SPF for sun protection.
First aid kit: Including band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications.
Snacks: High-energy snacks like nuts and energy bars.
Hand sanitiser and wet wipes: For hygiene purposes.
How to photograph Gorillas in Africa Through Eco Adventure Safaris?
Eco Adventure Safaris takes pride in customizing tailor-made gorilla trekking safaris. It has a very diligent and trust worthy team. Your queries are answered within 30 minutes by our team of professional tour consultants. These consultants will make you a travel plan for you, answer to all your questions and make sure all your services are booked in advance for you to avoid inconveniences. Feel free to contact us for more information about How to photograph Gorillas in Africa.