Do you dream of filming mountain gorillas? Get yourself prepared because you are one step away from making your filming dreams come true. Filming mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is one way of realizing your dreams in the wilderness. From walking through the jungles to enjoying their human-like behaviors, mountain gorilla filming is a rewarding venture to take on. In this article, you will learn about the best safari destinations for filming mountain gorillas. Additionally, you will answer some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) about mountain gorilla filming tours and safaris in Africa.
To begin with, you need to know that mountain gorillas can only be found in three countries across the world. These countries are located in East Africa. They include; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda), Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), and Virunga National Park (Democratic Republic of Congo – DRC). A filming tour or safari to any of these mountain gorilla destinations allows you to create a signature of memories.
Where can I do mountain gorilla filming in Uganda?
Located in the Eastern part of Africa, Uganda is one of the best safari destinations in Africa. Not only does Uganda offer mountain gorilla filming tours but also offers wildlife and other primate safaris. Uganda is by many travelers dubbed “The Pearl of Africa”. The only to confirm this is by taking a Uganda safari yourself. Additionally, Uganda alone is home to half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. These gentle giants reside in the rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park as well as Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Mountain gorilla filming in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park should be the first thing to come to every traveler’s mind when thinking about an amazing gorilla trekking or gorilla filming tour. Located in the southwestern part of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into 4 major sectors. These sectors include; the Ruhija Sector, Nkuringo Sector, Buhoma Sector, and Rushaga Sector. These sectors are home to 26 habituated mountain gorilla families. Gorilla habituation simply means the process of making these apes get used to human presence. It is a long but interesting process.
When planning a gorilla filming tour in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, it is important to plan ahead of time. Planning involves, choosing the right tour operator, having the right gorilla filming equipment, and booking gorilla permits in advance. With the right preparation, your filming tour in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can never go wrong.
Mountain gorilla filming in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Although not as big as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is equally one of the best gorilla filming destinations in Africa. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in southwestern Uganda in the Kisoro district. This is just a few kilometers from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The strategic location of these two parks makes life easier for gorilla trekkers on a Uganda safari. This is why most travelers find it easier to do a double gorilla trekking tour in Uganda than in any other country in the world.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has only one habituated mountain gorilla family (Nyakagezi gorilla group). This family of many members is interesting since it has playful babies. Filming such a gorilla family in Uganda is a dream come true. Unlike Bwindi, Mgahinga National Park has a more rugged terrain. This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a more challenging gorilla filming experience. This does not mean that filming mountain gorillas in this park requires some sort of rocket science. With the help of Uganda safari experts, you will capture the best moments.
Where can I do gorilla filming in Rwanda?
Other than Uganda gorilla trekking destinations, Rwanda offers one of the best filming destinations in the world. Mountain gorilla filming in Rwanda can be done in Volcanoes National Park. The park is located in the northern province of Musanze district. Volcanoes National Park is home to about 10 habituated mountain gorilla families available for filming and trekking. A gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs USD 1,500 per person per trek. Remember that this price is exclusive of gorilla filming fees as well as other safari expenses like transportation and accommodation. It is important that you talk to a safari expert for exact figures all-inclusive.
Other than gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park offers a wide range of safari activities. These can easily be combined with a gorilla filming tour. Some of the activities done in Volcanoes National Park include; Dian Fossey hiking, golden monkey trekking, birding tours, and many more. Community tours in Volcanoes National Park involve spending time with the locals. You get a chance to take part in their day-to-day life. You will enjoy traditional dances, harvesting, making crafts, brewing local beer, harvesting coffee, and many more.
Where can I do mountain gorilla filming in Congo?
Filming tours in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are done in Virunga National Park. This park is home to many mountain gorillas and some of these cross to Uganda and Rwanda. Virunga National Park is located in the Virunga Conservation Area. This area comprises a chain of volcanic mountains including the most active volcano – Mount Nyiragongo.
Other than mountain gorillas, Congo is home to the eastern lowland gorillas. This unique gorilla species lives in lowland areas, unlike the mountain gorillas. Lowland gorilla trekking and filming are done in Kahuzi Biega National Park. This park can easily be accessed through Rwanda starting from Kigali International Airport.
What to pack for mountain gorilla filming safaris?
- High-quality camera(s) with interchangeable lenses
- Lenses and Accessories
- External microphone(s) for capturing high-quality sound
- Windshield or furry cover to reduce wind noise
- Headphones for monitoring audio recordings
- Steady camera support system, such as a shoulder rig or gimbal, for smooth handheld shots
- Spare batteries and charger for the lights
- Lightweight, breathable, and neutral-colored clothing for blending into the environment and maintaining comfort in varying weather conditions
- Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or boots
- Rain gear (jacket, pants, and covers for equipment) to protect against rain and humidity
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Gloves for handling equipment and protecting against scratches or cuts
- Binoculars for observing gorillas from a distance