Uganda is home to some of the most diverse and photogenic landscapes and wildlife in Africa. Its dramatic array of ecosystems, including everything from rolling savannah to dense rainforest, draws in photographers. There is so much for both budding and experienced photographers to create with!
Uganda’s national parks provide some of the best opportunities in the world to photograph the wild, the scenic, and the surprising day-to-day life that thrives in Uganda. To truly maximize your time on a photo safari, visit multiple parks. Each park has its own character, charm, and wildlife!
Queen Elizabeth’s Diverse Scenes
Queen Elizabeth’s diverse scenes provide photographers an abundance of opportunity. Wetlands, open plains, and tropical forests blanket the park. Each ecosystem is teeming with spectacular wildlife, from elephants to hippos, not to mention 600+ species of birds.
Boat excursions on the Kazinga Channel put you right in the middle of the action! You’ll be able to get photographs of the water scenes in a completely different way. Most overlooks in this area offer sweeping vistas across the savanna and crater lakes, ideal for Uganda photography, indeed.
Murchison Falls’ Mighty Roar
Murchison Falls’ Mighty Roar Murchison Falls National Park is famous for its dramatic waterfall and expansive, palm-filled section of the Nile River. Capture images of the cascades from multiple angles, or shoot crocs and avians on the banks of the river.
The combination of forest, river, and savannah creates limitless opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.
Bwindi’s Gorilla Encounters
Bwindi’s Gorilla Encounters Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is well-known for its mountain gorilla encounters. Photograph family encounters with the gentle giants in this dense emerald jungle. Capture the relationship between these majestic beasts or zoom in on the thick, foggy timberland.
If your travels coincide with conservation work here, it makes a whole other chapter to your story.
Kidepo Valley’s Raw Wilderness
Raw Wilderness Kidepo Valley National Park is best known for its rugged, remote beauty. Vast, treeless plains, rugged mountains, and large wildlife populations create an almost primeval feeling.
The park’s remoteness from the masses allows you to hone in on unique experiences, such as visits with the semi-nomadic Karamojong people.
Kibale’s Chimp Tracking Thrills
Chimp tracking thrills make Kibale NP best for Uganda photography. With guided treks, you’ll come face to face with chimps swinging overhead or feeding in the trees. The verdant jungle of the hardwood forest creates a green stage.
Conservation projects have raised awareness of the need to protect these highly intelligent great apes.
Planning Your Uganda Photo Trip
A photo safari in Uganda takes careful steps to make the most of the country’s rich wildlife, varied landscapes, and cultural scenes. First, start planning for how you’ll travel. Find flights to Entebbe International Airport, arrange lodges close to national parks, and understand the visa regulations.
List what you will need: entry permit, yellow fever card, and travel insurance. Most parks, such as Queen Elizabeth and Semuliki, have fees paid at the gate. Trekking gorillas and chimpanzees require special permits, which usually sell out several months in advance, more so during the dry season.
You’ll want to have a nice camera with a quick 70-200mm lens at the ready! Bring along additional memory cards and a solid tripod, since you’ll be dealing with intense sunlight and deep jungle shadow.
Best Seasons for Your Lens
Uganda’s two dry seasons take place from December to February and June to August. These months offer the most optimal light and clearest paths for tracking down wildlife! These months correspond to animal migrations and breeding, so you’ll encounter active herds and birds in vibrant plumage.
While wet months create great lush scenes, they produce muddy trails. Time your visit according to these main events for optimal photo opportunities.
Finding Photo-Focused Tours
Seek out local operators that conduct dedicated photo safaris. Other locations, such as Bwindi or Kibale, are home to highly trained guides. After all, they have a better idea of where to find silverback gorillas or shoebill storks!
Look for packages that include small group sizes, private vehicles, or special access to wildlife. Read reviews from other photographers to get an unfiltered picture of what to expect.
Navigating Permits and Park Fees
Make note of what permits you will need, including for gorilla or chimpanzee trekking. Allow for park entry costs, and double check the fine print on deadlines and refunds! Reserve in advance.
Though animals are abundant, popular time slots do fill quickly. Budget additional for camera fees.
Crafting Your Dream Itinerary
Balance days tracking animals during your photographic safari with time in local villages. Schedule time to recharge and back up photos daily, ensuring your wildlife photography captures the essence of this adventure.
Essential Gear for Uganda Shots
A Uganda photo safari requires a simple, yet effective, gear rig designed for challenging paths and bush days. The right camera gear can help you catch the rich wildlife and wild landscapes, even in changing light or tricky weather.
When selecting gear for this varied region, keep in mind overall weight and how much you can comfortably carry. Additionally, consider its performance against dust, rain and rugged travel.
My Camera Bag Essentials
First you want to get a good DSLR or mirrorless camera that can do quick focus and low light. The 300mm is the perfect starting point for wildlife, allowing you to capture distanced, skittish subjects without making a sound.
It’s a pretty good combo for travel, especially if you have a 24-70 zoom to get wider shots and fast focal length swaps. Add a second lens, such as an 80-200mm or 70-300mm, to get some original perspective shots.
Teleconverters are fine if you need that little bit of extra reach, but be aware that these will decrease the sharpness. Carry high-capacity (1TB+) memory cards at all times for full safari days.
Two batteries typically do the trick, but a third is a must if you’re shooting more than six hours in a day. Use a hard case camera backpack, well padded and fitted, to both protect gear and maintain quick access.
Provide for cleaning , you’ll be in a dusty environment , and protection, including a padded case to protect from jarring bumps.
Must-Have Field Accessories
Tripods Steady shots are a must, especially because many of our shots were at dawn or dusk. A remote shutter and lens filters help you experiment with creative styles while reducing glare and distractions.
To combat low light, an adjustable small-format LED panel is extremely useful. Top-quality hiking boots and a broad-brimmed hat will ensure that hikes throughout Uganda’s rolling hills and jungles are both safer and more enjoyable.
Protecting Gear in the Bush
Weather changes quickly, so a waterproof bag is essential. Keep gear stored vertically and not on the ground, avoiding high-traffic areas.
Be on the lookout for inquisitive wildlife; make sure your pack is zipped up and out of view when you are stopped. Understand exposure settings to be able to compensate as light changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year for a Uganda photo safari?
Uganda’s two dry seasons, June – September and December – February, are perfect times for photographic safaris, offering stunning wildlife viewing opportunities and ideal lighting for photography. During this dry season, animals congregate around remaining water sources, facilitating easier spotting and capturing for wildlife photographers.
Do I need a permit to photograph gorillas in Uganda?
To photograph gorillas in Uganda, you need gorilla trekking permits for entry into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, essential for an unforgettable photographic safari.
Is it safe to bring professional camera gear on safari in Uganda?
Is it safe to bring professional camera gear on a photographic safari in Uganda? Consider using padded camera bags for extra protection. Don’t flaunt your expensive gear in public, and heed your guide’s advice at all times to keep yourself and your gear safe.
Which national parks are best for wildlife photography in Uganda?
Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are some of the best options for photography safaris. These parks promise spectacular wildlife, breathtaking vistas, and adventures in gorilla trekking.
Can I use drones for photography in Uganda’s national parks?
Can I use drones for photography in Uganda’s national parks during my photographic safari? The penalties for flying a drone without authorization can include heavy fines or confiscation of your drone.
What lenses are recommended for a Uganda photo safari?
Wildlife photography, especially during a photographic safari in Uganda, often requires a telephoto lens (ideally starting at 300mm) for capturing endangered mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. Fast lenses are essential for the low-light conditions found in Uganda’s forests.
Are guides necessary for a photo safari in Uganda?
Are guides important for a photographic safari in Uganda? Absolutely, as they understand the parks, the behaviors of the creatures you’ll be photographing, and the safest photography locations. With local guides, tourists can easily spot the most wildlife and receive the best tips on capturing the perfect shot during their Uganda photo safari.
