A moderate level of fitness is recommended. Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking involves hiking on uneven, potentially challenging terrain and sometimes steep slopes. The distance and duration vary with each trek and can range from about 30 minutes to several hours, depending on where the primates are located. Porters are always available to help carry gear and assist along the hike. There is no rush, and the pace can be adjusted to what feels comfortable for the group. Other safari activities are far less physically demanding.

A telephoto lens is generally recommended for wildlife photography. For gorillas and chimpanzees, a super long lens is not necessary, as encounters often happen at close range. A 70-200mm range works very well for these experiences. For environmental and wider context shots, a lens in the 24-70mm range is ideal. For other wildlife throughout the trip, a longer lens in the 150-600mm range is recommended, as viewing distances can vary. Some encounters may be from a distance, while others happen surprisingly close to the vehicle. We can also go over your gear together before the trip to help you feel confident in what you bring, and I can offer recommendations based on your goals.

Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but the locations we will be visiting offers the best opportunities for mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, leopards, and shoebills. Before we embark on our primate treks, rangers explore the forests in the early mornings to locate the gorillas and chimpanzees for us. These highly skilled rangers understand the animal's habits and behaviors, and have great success at finding our target species. In Queen Elizabeth National Park, we will partake in GPS predator tracking with a certified guide, where the chances of spotting lions and leopards are highly likely.

Uganda offers an exceptionally diverse range of wildlife. In addition to mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, the country supports some of the highest densities of primate species in the world. Encounters may include colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, patas monkeys, baboons, bush babies, and potto, along with a wide variety of birdlife. Various species of bee-eaters, sunbirds, hornbills, kingfishers, herons, turacos, weavers, raptors, and many more are commonly found throughout the journey. Uganda is also home to many larger mammals, with likely sightings including numerous antelope species (such as Ugandan kob, waterbuck, Jackson's hartebeest, topi, and elands), elephants, hippos, zebra, crocodiles, and giraffes.

Uganda is generally warm year-round. September marks the transition from dry season to wet season, so you can expect temperatures between 20°C to 26.C/ 68°F to 78°F, with cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings. Rain is possible, particularly in forested regions, and conditions can change quickly. Packing guidance will be provided before the trip.

Connectivity is limited in many areas. WiFi is available in all lodges throughout the trip, typically in shared common areas rather than guest rooms. While connectivity is available each day, cell service can be inconsistent depending on the location, and many guests appreciate the opportunity to disconnect.

No. This trip is designed for both photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. While photography guidance is available, guests are equally welcome to simply observe, experience, and enjoy the incredible wildlife, landscapes, and cultural moments.

Once the gorillas are found, we are given one incredible hour to observe and photograph them as they rest, eat, climb, and groom each other.