WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPY SAFARIS IN UGANDA
Wildlife photography Safaris in Uganda : Wildlife photography Safaris in Uganda are now very common with Ugandan nationals actively taking part in the activity. Wildlife photography is a style of photography that involves capturing images of different species of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Wildlife photography safaris in Uganda are not only interesting, but they also give you an opportunity to appreciate the various gifts of nature like the landscape, forest cover, bird and animal species as well.
Uganda being the ‘Pearl of Africa,’ is greatly gifted by nature which makes it one of the best destinations in the world for Photography safaris. Wildlife photography safaris in Uganda are mainly conducted in any of the 10 national parks which include; Murchison Falls national park, Bwindi Impenetrable national park, Mgahinga Gorilla national park, Lake Mburo national park, Kidepo Valley national park, Semuliki national park, Mount Elgon national park, Rwenzori Mountains national park, Queen Elizabeth national park and Kibale national park.
Besides national parks, wildlife photography safaris in Uganda can also be done in other wildlife destinations such as; Mabamba Swamp and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary which are great places to view the rare Shoebill Stork bird. A birding tour to any of these places will get you great shots of this magnificent and highly sought after bird species.
Unique Animals to capture during you Wildlife photography safaris in Uganda.
Mountain Gorillas
If you are looking to take great shots of mountain gorillas during your safari in Uganda, then Bwindi Impenetrable national park is the perfect destination. Simply book a gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi national park and will have access to any of the 19 habituated gorilla families in the national park. Alternatively, you can book a gorilla trekking safari in Mgahinga Gorilla national park and track any of the two gorilla groups in the national park. Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda cost USD 700 for foreign non-residents, USD 600 for foreign residents and UGX 250,000 for East African Citizens. Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes between 6 to 8 hours or more depending on the location of the gorillas; and once you have located a gorilla group, you will be given an hour to take as many shots of the gorillas as you want on condition that your shutter sound and flash light on your camera is disabled.
Chimpanzees
When on the safari, the ideal places to take great pictures of chimpanzees in their natural habitat include; Kibale national park, Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth national park, Kalinzu forest, Budongo forest in Murchison falls national park and Toro-Semuliki wildlife reserve.
Big Five
The Big Five animals are one of the most sought after wildlife in Africa. Among the Big Five animals include the Cape buffalo, African Savannah Elephant, Lion, Leopard and Rhino. Top destinations to capture lovely shots of the Big Five during your safari in Uganda include; Murchison falls national park, Queen Elizabeth national park and Kidepo Valley national park.
Other wildlife animals to capture during your wildlife photography safari in Uganda include; hyenas, topi, impala, giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, reedbucks, hippos, Nile crocodiles and many others.
What to pack for Wildlife photography safaris in Uganda.
During your safaris in Uganda, make sure to pack these essential items; water proof hiking boots, a pair of long trousers and shirts, a rain jacket, rain coat/ jacket, a cap/ hat, sunscreen cream and insect repellent, warm gloves, a water bottle and some snacks, as well as your camera and extra batteries.
Cost of Wildlife Photography permit in Uganda.
The permits in Uganda cost USD 150 for both foreign residents and Non-residents alike and UGX 150,000 for East African Citizens. The fees are charged according to per person, per day basis.
Conclusion: Wildlife photography safaris in Uganda are a great way to get up close shots of a variety of wildlife animals during your trip. In addition to this, you also get to spend quality time amidst nature and all it has to give.
