Mountain Gorilla Filming

Mountain Gorilla Filming in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo

If you’re passionate about primates and wildlife storytelling, filming mountain gorillas in their natural forest habitat is a truly rare and rewarding experience. The best places to capture these endangered apes on camera are the lush jungles of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The only regions in the world where mountain gorillas still roam free include:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda

• Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda

• Virunga National Park in eastern DRC

These protected areas are home to the entire global population of mountain gorillas—fewer than 1,100 individuals—making them prime destinations for nature documentaries, conservation films, and professional wildlife photography.

Why Uganda Stands Out for Gorilla Filming

Uganda offers some of the best opportunities for filming mountain gorillas, with nearly half of the world’s population found in its parks. Over 480 gorillas live in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga, and the country boasts more than 15 habituated gorilla groups available for gorilla trekking and filming.

Permits for gorilla filming in Uganda are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), which manages the country’s protected areas. To participate in a gorilla filming expedition, you’ll need to apply for both a gorilla filming permit and a standard gorilla trekking permit. While they serve different purposes, both are essential for gaining access to the gorillas and must be arranged in advance.

You can learn more about gorilla permit types and how to apply here.

Gorilla Filming Permit Costs

Gorilla filming permit fees vary by country and depend on the type of production and equipment used.

• Uganda: Filming permits cost approximately $4,200, covering the application fee, park access, and conservation support. Additional costs apply for camera gear clearance, transportation, and lodging near the park.

• Rwanda: Permits range from $5,000, with a $2,000 security deposit, refundable if you submit copies of your final production to the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

• Democratic Republic of Congo: Filming permissions are managed by the Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN). Prices vary and should be confirmed through the official conservation authority.

Note that in most cases, you must pay for permits covering an entire habituated gorilla family during your filming day.

Essential Requirements for Gorilla Filming

Before you begin your mountain gorilla filming safari, there are several logistical steps to take:

• Media Accreditation: You’ll need to obtain a media card in Uganda, Rwanda, or DRC. These are typically issued by the country’s media centers or authorities.

• Equipment Clearance: All professional filming equipment must be cleared by official forwarding agents. In Uganda, this can be handled at Entebbe International Airport through a licensed clearing agency.

• Tour Operator Support: To simplify the process, it’s highly recommended to work with an experienced local operator like Trek Africa Expeditions, who can handle all permit applications, ground logistics, and park coordination.

• Advance Booking: Due to the high demand and strict regulations, filming safaris should be arranged several months in advance.

Filming permits are issued per crew member, so each individual in the team must have valid documentation before entering the parks.

Who Can Film Mountain Gorillas?

Gorilla filming experiences are open to:

• Professional filmmakers

• Wildlife photographers

• TV and documentary production crews

• Conservation organizations

• Individual creators with a passion for storytelling

Whether you’re working on a nature documentary, wildlife conservation series, or an independent film, gorilla filming safaris offer unmatched opportunities to capture intimate and dramatic moments with these great apes.

Final Thoughts: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Wildlife Filming Experience

Filming mountain gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda, or the DRC is more than just a visual expedition—it’s an unforgettable conservation journey. By documenting their behavior in the wild, you help raise awareness about the challenges these endangered primates face, while contributing to the broader mission of protecting their habitat.

To start planning your trip, explore more about gorilla trekking and filming experiences with Trek Africa Expeditions, your trusted East African safari specialist.