Rwanda Gorilla Filming Safaris

Exploring Rwanda’s Gorilla Filming Safaris – A Complete Guide

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is renowned as one of the premier destinations for filming the endangered mountain gorillas. This stunning national park is situated in the northwest of Rwanda, making it easily accessible via well-paved roads. Covering an area of 160 square kilometers, Volcanoes National Park is home to the captivating Virunga volcanoes: Muhavura, Gahinga, Sabyinyo, Karisimbi, and Bisoke. But what truly makes this park a gem is the presence of around 11 habituated mountain gorilla families, available for filming throughout the year. The estimated population exceeds 300 mountain gorillas living in the lush rainforests of Volcanoes National Park.

Your Comprehensive Guide to Filming in Rwanda

When planning a filming trip to Rwanda, there are essential considerations to ensure a smooth and successful experience. Let’s delve into the crucial aspects to keep in mind:

Equipment Clearance

Travelers with filming intentions in Rwanda must notify Trek Africa Expeditions about the equipment they plan to bring along. This declaration is important for equipment clearance and ensuring that everything is in order for your filming expedition.

Drones

In many African countries, including Rwanda, drones are often considered as military spying equipment. Therefore, travelers coming to Rwanda with drones should provide Trek Africa Expeditions with detailed information about the drones and their intended purpose for the trip.

Filming Permits

To engage in filming activities in Rwanda, clients are required to obtain filming permits. These permits are issued by the Rwandan government through the Ministry of Tourism. For comprehensive information about the application process and requirements, please reach out to Trek Africa Expeditions.

Exclusivity during Gorilla Filming

It’s important to note that a Rwandan gorilla family is visited by a maximum of 8 people per day. Filmmakers should anticipate joining other visitors on the gorilla trek. However, for those seeking exclusivity during filming activities, the option exists to purchase all 8 permits, ensuring that no other travelers will be present during your gorilla filming.

Logistics

Filming in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park may require logistics planning, especially when dealing with various gorilla families that might necessitate transportation to starting points. For detailed information on logistics and equipment arrangements, contact Trek Africa Expeditions.

Accommodation Selection

Given the significant amount of equipment involved in filming, it’s advisable to choose accommodation that offers spacious rooms, continuous electricity supply, and flexible staff. Flexibility is particularly important as filming activities may lead to changes in schedules, meal times, and other services.

Film Crew Fixer – Coordinator

Filming clients have the option to bring their own film crew. Alternatively, they can contact Trek Africa Expeditions to arrange for a professional filming crew. These crews can be made available upon request, which may be essential for interviews and various aspects of the filming process.

Gorilla Permits

In accordance with international rules governing gorilla conservation, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park allows tourists to film one gorilla family. This is a non-negotiable rule. Therefore, travelers intending to film multiple gorilla families will need to secure multiple permits for an optimal filming experience.

Carrying Filming Equipment

Trek Africa Expeditions offers assistance in the form of porters stationed at the park entrance. These porters will help carry your filming equipment from the starting point to the gorilla families and back, ensuring the process is as seamless as possible.

Best Time for Filming in Rwanda

Filming can be conducted in Rwanda throughout the year, with each season offering unique advantages. To capture gorillas in misty settings, consider visiting during the rainy seasons of March to May and September to November. For clearer lighting and visibility, the dry seasons of June to August and December to February are ideal. Contact Trek Africa Expeditions for inquiries regarding Rwanda gorilla filming safaris and all logistics to ensure your filming expedition is a resounding success.