Handy Guide to Filming Mountain Gorillas — Embarking on a cinematic journey with Mountain Gorillas spans three remarkable countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These destinations offer unparalleled Gorilla tours and safaris, including the captivating experiences of Gorilla tracking and Gorilla habituation.
In Uganda, the allure of Gorilla filming stands as one of the most exclusive and costly endeavors compared to Gorilla tracking and habituation experiences. To delve into this cinematic adventure, one must explore Gorilla National Parks such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda. Alternatively, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda or Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo beckon filmmakers.
For those aspiring to film Mountain Gorillas in Uganda, effective communication with authorities is paramount. Initiating contact ensures access to crucial information regarding pricing and procedural intricacies for a fulfilling filming adventure. Whether a Media Production House or an individual, expressing the intent for Mountain Gorilla filming becomes a powerful means to raise awareness for conserving these endangered species threatened by habitat loss, diseases, and poaching.
The procedures for securing a Mountain Gorilla filming permit are intricate and demand a considerable amount of time. Filmmakers must follow a series of steps, starting with applying to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, seeking approval, and adhering to terms and conditions. Formal application letters from Film Crew members further attest to their commitment, with a subsequent obligation to submit two DVD copies of the Gorilla filming to the Uganda Wildlife Authority upon completion.
The cost structure for Mountain Gorilla filming involves a fee of 40% of the activity, inclusive of a 10% monitoring fee per day. If utilizing a drone, the filming fee increases to 50% of the activity. Additionally, to book a Mountain Gorilla filming tour, filmmakers must first secure Gorilla tracking permits for a chosen Gorilla family for a day, alongside the Gorilla filming fee. In Uganda, a single Gorilla permit is priced at USD800 for foreign non-residents, USD700 for foreign residents, and 300,000shs for East Africans.
In Rwanda, a Gorilla tracking permit costs USD1500, a Gorilla filming permit amounts to USD5000, with an additional USD2000 security fee, refundable upon submission of the film to the Rwanda Development Board.
Securing Mountain Gorilla filming permits can be directly managed through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or entrusted to a reputable tour operator. Trek Africa Expeditions, as a proficient tour operator, stands ready to facilitate the entire process, offering a well-planned Gorilla filming trip that includes accommodation bookings and overall welfare considerations.
Beyond permits, essential requirements encompass Media cards and press accreditation issued by the Uganda Media Council, clearing filming equipment through Uganda and Rwanda customs, and organizing transportation and accommodation.
Apart from Gorilla filming, alternatives like Gorilla tracking (USD800 per person per trek) and Gorilla Habituation Experience (USD1500 per person per trek) provide opportunities to witness the majestic Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat. While Gorilla tracking offers an hour in the presence of a Gorilla family for observation and photography, the habituation experience extends to a 4-hour interaction, witnessing the taming process of wild Gorillas to human presence.
Preparation for a Gorilla filming trip necessitates essential gear, including sturdy hiking boots, garden gloves, sunglasses, long-sleeved shirts and pants, rain gear or a coat, safari hats, walking sticks, and optional but helpful porters. Additionally, filmmakers should equip themselves with video cameras, lighting, extra rechargeable batteries, insect repellents, and a handy backpack for snacks and water.
Embark on an extraordinary cinematic journey with Mountain Gorillas, ensuring a comprehensive guide and meticulous preparation for an unforgettable filming experience.