Photo Tour Uganda
Our special photo safari tour brings you the highlights of Uganda: where the savannah meets the rainforest. Expect to see the animals of the savannahs (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard, giraffe, hippo) and up to 15 primate species, including gorillas and chimps!!! Unique for every photographer.
During this trip an experienced photo guide will join the trip to help you to make the best photos of the wildlife! This is safari trip is specially designed for wildlife photographers who do not only want to see it all, but also be able to make the best photos of each animal and location. So during this trip we will spend much more time with the animals, making photos in the best light and from different angles.
The maximum number of participants for this Group Tour is 4. So everyone is guaranteed a window seat and there is enough space to take good photos.
Highlights
- Meet the Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi National Park, an experience you will never forget!
- See the chimpanzees and 12 other monkey species in Kibale Forest
- Safaris (game drives) on the savannahs of Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Lake Mburo National Park, with chances of seeing the wildlife from close quarters
- See the white Rhinos in Ziwa Sanctuary
- Lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park, with high chances to lions and spend much time with them
- Search for the tree climbing lions in the Ishasha sector of the Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Boat trip on the Nile to the Murchison Falls, where the Nile is forced through a gorge and drops 60 meters
- Boat trip on the Kazinga Channel with the biggest concentration of hippos and spectacular birds
- Enjoy the silence and beautiful landscape of Uganda’s most beautiful lake, Lake Bunyonyi
- Night game drive in Lake Mburo National Park to see the animals of the night, including leopards
- Visit the local people and/or the pygmies and experience their local way of living
- See the Shoebill stork in Mabamba Swamp
Video
Route
Day to day program
Entebbe Airport - Entebbe
Arrival at Entebbe Airport. Your guide will be there waiting for you. Pick up and proceed to your accommodation for the night.
Included: airport transfer
Entebbe - Ziwa Sanctuary
After your early breakfast we will drive to Ziwa Sanctuary for a White Rhino walk. This is the only place in Uganda where you can see the white Rhino. In the late afternoon we will track them to be able to get good photos of them.
Included: Ziwa Sanctuary
Ziwa Sanctuary - Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast we drive to Murchison Falls National Park. In Murchison Falls we visit the top of the falls. Game drive on our way to the lodge and game drive in the late afternoon.
Murchison Falls is one of the most beautiful national parks of Uganda. One of the main attractions is the Nile, with the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the whole Nile is forced through a narrow gorge and falls 60 meters. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, lions, hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes and maybe leopards.
Included: visit top of the falls, game drive
Murchison Falls National Park
Early morning game drive in this beautiful national park to see the active animals in the morning. Afternoon boat trip on the Victoria Nile up to the bottom of the falls. Transfer back to the lodge, game drive on our way.
The boat is the perfect platform to see and photograph many different bird species. Like African fish eagle, snake neck bird, African Jacana and different species of Kingfisher.
Included: game drive, boat trip
Murchison Falls National Park – Kibale Forest
After breakfast, we drive to Kibale Forest National Park. The journey takes you through the Albertan Escarpment of the western arm of the East African Rift valley with dramatic views, traditional homesteads and scenic views of the mountains of the moon (the Rwenzori Mountains. Reach Kibale Forest in the evening for dinner and overnight.
Kibale Forest is a spectacular jungle and is best known as Primates Capital of the World. In Kibale Forest live 13 primate species! Including chimps, baboons, black and white colobus, red colobus, grey cheeked mangabey and L’Hoest monkey.
Kibale Forest
Chimpanzee Tracking in the morning or in the afternoon. This gives great opportunities to see the chimps in the wild from close quarters.
Bigodi community walk in the afternoon (or in the morning). This walk is good to see many different monkey species and birds. Including the Great Blue Turaco.
It is also possible to make a night walk through the forest to see the animals of the night, like bush babies (optional).
Included: chimp tracking, Bigodi Swamp Walk
Kibale Forest - Queen Elizabeth National Park
Chimpanzee tracking in the morning to have another chance to see and photograph our closest relatives, chimpanzees
Transfer to the Queen Elizabeth National Park afterwards. On our way we pass some crater lakes and the equator. Game drive in the afternoon if time allows.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best places in Uganda to see lions. Expect to see elephants, lions, many hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes and maybe leopards.
Included: chimp tracking, game drive
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Lion tracking in the morning. With this activity the chances of seeing lions up close are over 90%. Boat trip on the Kazinga Channel in the afternoon.
The Kazinga Channel is one of the highlights of Uganda and has the highest concentration of hippos in the world. The Kazinga channel is also good for birds and if you are lucky, elephants in the water.
Included: lion tracking, boat trip
Queen Elizabeth National Park - Ishasha
Early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. After a good breakfast we drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park to the Ishasha sector in the South. Game drive on our way and in the afternoon in the Ishasha sector. During this afternoon game drive we focus on the trees, famous for the tree climbing lions.
In Ishasha there are 4 prides of lions that climb the trees. Unique in the world! The other attraction of Ishasha is the Topis, not found anywhere else in this National Park.
Included: game drives
Ishasha – Bwindi Impenetrable
Early morning game drive in Ishasha to see the tree climbing lions. Afterwards we drive to Bwindi Impenetrable. On our way we pass through interesting villages and have some breath -taking views of the mountains.
Bwindi Impenetrable is a unique jungle, with many monkey species. Bwindi is one of the 2 places in the world where you can find Mountain Gorillas!
Included: game drive
Bwindi Impenetrable
Gorilla tracking!!! Early morning departure with your ranger to search for one of the world’s most interesting and endangered animal, the Mountain Gorilla! You will spend one hour with one of our closest relatives. An experience you will never forget.
Bwindi Impenetrable – Lake Bunyonyi
In the morning we will visit the Batwa people. In the past they shared the jungle with the gorillas.
Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi afterwards. Relax or go for birding on the island. This is also a good day to visit the local people, which gives good opportunities for interesting photos..
Lake Bunyonyi is one of the deepest and most beautiful lakes of Uganda. This crater lake is located at an altitude of 2.000m and is created by multiple volcanic eruptions. Because of the altitude the lake is safe to swim in, as there are no diseases or hippos and crocodiles in the lake.
Included: Batwa people visit
Lake Bunyonyi –Lake Mburo National Park
After breakfast we drive to Lake Mburo National Park. Boat trip on the lake in the afternoon. During this boat trip you will probably see hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes and many bird species. Including the African Finfoot, an elusive bird. In the evening we make a night game drive with high chances of seeing leopards.
Lake Mburo is one of the 2 national parks with zebras and the only national park with impalas in Uganda. There are no elephants and lions, so walking safaris are possible.
Included: boat trip, night game drive
Lake Mburo – Mabamba Swamp
Game drive in the morning. This is our last game drive of the trip! Afterwards we drive to Mabamba Swamp. On our way we can make a stopover at the Equator for photos.
Mabamba Swamp is a large and accessible wetland on the shores of Lake Victoria. This is one of the best places to see the Shoebill Stork.
Included: game drive
Accommodations
Legend: BB = Bed and Breakfast / HB = Half Board / FB = Full Board
* Depending on the group of gorillas you will be tracking we will choose where to sleep in Bwindi. There are 4 areas for Gorilla tracking in Bwindi: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga.
Lodges we use for Medium Budget:
- Buhoma: Buhoma Haven Lodge (HB)
- Ruhija: Bakiga Lodge (HB)
- Nkuringo: Gorilla CloseUp Lodge (HB)
- Rushaga: Rushaga Gorilla Camp (HB)
Price 2024
Price on request, please send an email to mail@kazingatours.com
Includes
- Airport transfers
- Accommodations with meals mentioned
- Bottled drinking water
- Private 4x4 custom built safari van with knowledgeable driver/guide and fuel
- Photo guide
- Entrance fees to the included National Parks
- Activities mentioned as included
Excludes
- Flights
- Visa
- All optional activities
- Insurances
- Meals not mentioned and beverages
- Tips and personal expenses such as laundry and communication
Group Tours - Guaranteed Departures
Medium budget, with a maximum of 4 persons
2024
Throughout this photo safari, you will be acompanied by a special photo guide, who will help you to improve your photography skills.
This is safari trip is specially designed for wildlife photographers who do not only want to see it all, but also be able to make the best photos of each animal and location. So during this trip we will spend much more time with the animals, making photos in the best light and from different angles.
The maximum number of participants for this Group Tour is 4 persons, so everyone is guaranteed a window seat and there is enough space to take good photos.
The Government of Uganda requires mandatory proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination for travelers 1 year of age and above. Travelers should possess a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (vaccine received at least 10 days ago) prior to entry into Uganda. Travelers who do not meet this requirement must be vaccinated at the Airport (with possibility of isolation as determined by the Aiport health authority) prior to entry into Uganda at the travelers own costs.
Furthermore all required inoculations must be recorded by your health practitioner on a valid vaccination certificate. You must carry this document with you throughout the tour. All visitors should take malaria prophylactic drugs. We also advise that you bring a mosquito repellent with you. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for up to date requirements, inoculations and personal recommendations!
Normally you need the following vaccinations (but please always consult a doctor):
- Yellow Fever
- DTP
- Hepatitis
For Malaria you need to take tablets, Malarone or Lariam. Malarone is mostly used (please always consult a doctor).
Hygiene is not at the same standard as in your home country, so we advise you to bring a disinfectant cream with you. Always drink bottled water instead of tap water.
On arrival on the airport our guide will be there waiting for you. During safari we use custom made safari vehicles, custom made for an optimal view of the wildlife. Safari vehicles (and small aircrafts) provide limited space for luggage. It is therefore recommended to travel with light bags since bulky suitcases will overload and might be difficult to be taken on board.
Uganda visa information
The Government of Uganda has an online visa application When you are visiting Uganda you must apply for a visa online:
- Go to the website https://visas.immigration.go.ug/
- Please make sure you have the following documents in .pdf, .jpeg, .png or .bmp format: a copy of your passport, copy of recent passport size photograph and a vaccination certificate (Yellow Fever)
- Fill in the form:
- Visit Uganda only: single entry: “ordinary” visa, USD 50
- Visit 2 countries or more: East Africa / multi entry visa, USD 100 (participating in the East African visa: Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya)
- When you send the form you will immediately receive a tracking code. This code helps you to keep track of how far your application has progressed. You can check its status from this webpage
- The Ugandan authorities will send you a letter in the email after they have approved your application (please check you SPAM folder too)
- Print this letter and bring it with you when you arrive at the overland border or at Entebbe International Airport. You need this letter to be allowed to purchase the entree visa there for USD 50 (Uganda) or USD 100 (East Africa-Multi Entry).
Some nationalities do not require a visa, please check this in advance.
In most of the cities it is possible to withdraw money from an ATM. Travelers Cheques are not widely accepted and it is very difficult or impossible to pay by credit card outside the cities. The US dollar is traditionally the hard currency of preference. We advise to bring some Dollars for daily expenses and tips.
Dollar bills should not be older than 10 years.
The unit of currency is the Ugandan Shilling. Please check the latest exchange rates before you go to your destination. This will be a guideline. Please note you will get a better exchange rate in the bigger cities.
We advise you to apply for a Flying Doctors membership. The membership provides a quick and reliable air evacuation and medical care if needed.
AMREF Flying Doctors offers 2 covers (Annual and Short Term). You can choose between the Maisha Silver (Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar), Maisha Gold (Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi) or Maisha Platinum (Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan and Ethiopia).
Please check out the AMREF Flying Doctors website for more information and to become a member.
Educated Ugandans are generally fluent in English, which is the official language in Uganda. Next to English there are about 30- plus different indigenous languages.
Uganda is a tropical country, with higher temperatures at lower altitudes (Kampala, Murchison Falls, Kidepo and Bundibugyo).
Areas around Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Lake Bunyonyi are generally cooler.
Uganda can be visited at any time throughout the year. But please keep in mind that mountain hikes, gorilla tracking and other forest walks are more challenging during the rainy seasons (March - May and October - November).
For birders the rainy season is considered to be the best time to visit Uganda.
Rainy season means it rains more often, but not every day and not the whole day.
Daytime temperatures are generally warm to hot, so bring lots of light clothing. Evenings are cooler, especially at high altitudes (areas around Bwindi, Mgahinga, Lake Bunyonyi and Kabale) so carry a couple of sweaters too.
Those who intend to do mountain hiking will be exposed to alpine temperatures and should pack accordingly. Do not forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a waterproof jacket.
During safaris we advise to avoid black and dark blue clothes (because they can attract tsetse flies).
If you are planning on doing a community walk or visit the local people, we advise you to wear appropriate clothing. For example women putting on long skirts and a top that covers the shoulders
A valid passport is mandatory (passport must be valid for at least 3 months after re-entry) and visa requirements for all countries you are planning to visit should be checked before you travel.
To make the most of your visit to the game reserves and national parks, we advise you to carry binoculars and field guides.
Photographers will need a zoom lens for wildlife (70-300 or more). Please make sure to carry enough memory cards with you. Toiletries and other essentials can be bought in the cities.
A torch (flashlight) can proof to be very useful
We advise you to take an international adapter with you for your electric equipment. The system used in Uganda is the British system. In most lodges it is possible to charge your batteries.
Driving in Uganda is on the left-hand side.
Visitors without experience of African roads are advised to travel with a 4x4 vehicle driven by a knowledgeable driver/guide, rather than self-drive.
All our guides are well trained in "Defensive Driving".
Please mind that washrooms along the road are sometimes not to European standards, for example squatting toilets, no flushing toilets or no toilet paper available. Like the locals say: T.I.A. This Is Africa.
Bathroom facilities and accommodations can be more basic when traveling on a medium to low budget. In the eco lodges mind that the water reserves are limited and in most cases there are no sockets in the room, but you can always charge your devices at the reception.
Tipping will always be appreciated. It is normal to tip 5-10% in hotels and restaurants. Guides, drivers and carriers should always be tipped. Indication: for carriers USD 1-3 and for your driver/guide USD 5-15 per day, depending on the group size, number of days and your satisfaction.
The Bradt Travel Guide is the most detailed guidebook for Uganda. The Lonely Planet (East Africa), Footprint Guides and Spectrum Guides produce other guidebooks. For wildlife, the best guidebook is ‘Watching Wildlife East Africa’ from the Lonely Planet. For birding, the best guidebook is ‘birds of East Africa’. It is advisable to get the most updated copy.
