What is the Cost of Filming Permits in Uganda?

What is the Cost of Filming Permits in Uganda?

What is the Cost of Filming Permits in Uganda? — Embarking on a filming project in Uganda necessitates meticulous planning, and understanding the costs associated with filming permits is paramount. Trek Africa Expeditions, a Ugandan-based local company, stands ready to serve as your guide through the intricate landscape of filming permits and permissions, ensuring a seamless and compliant project execution. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the costs you might encounter while filming in Uganda:

1. Media Card Costs

Foreign film crews and journalists are required to obtain accreditation from the Uganda Media Council to film in any location in Uganda. The Media Card, priced at USD 175 per person, is valid for one month. This fee directly contributes to the Uganda Media Council, and the press accreditation process takes 2-3 working days with the submission of the necessary paperwork.

2. Clearing in Your Kit/Equipment Cost

Importing filming equipment into Uganda involves a fee, which is contingent on the value of the equipment. The process, encompassing paperwork and clearance, typically takes 2-3 working days. As Uganda is not a duty-free country, a fee is payable to Uganda Customs and fixers to facilitate the clearance of your equipment.

3. Wildlife Filming Fees

Filming within Uganda’s National Parks requires payment of fees to the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The authority provides a Memorandum of Understanding or a Filming Contract, enabling you to film in any of the ten National Parks. While there are general filming fees for most parks, additional fees apply to film Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzees.

• Mountain Gorillas: Found in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, filming these primates incurs an extra fee.
• Chimpanzees: Located in Kibale Forest National Park, Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Budongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park, filming these charismatic creatures attracts additional charges.

4. Accommodation Rates

Uganda offers a range of accommodation options, categorized as Budget, Mid-range, and Luxury Lodges, with rates spanning USD 50 to USD 350 per person. Trek Africa Expeditions’ sister company, Trek Africa Film Fixers, can negotiate competitive accommodation rates based on your project details.

5. Price of Location Permit

Locational permits vary depending on the filming location. Local village filming permits, for instance, may range from USD 100 to USD 300 for the entire shoot. Trek Africa Expeditions will liaise with local authorities to determine the specific permit costs for your chosen locations.

6. Costs of Transportation

Moving between locations requires the hire of a vehicle and driver. Trek Africa Expeditions provide 4×4 Vans and Land Cruisers at USD 110 and USD 200 per day, respectively. These costs exclude fuel, which is estimated based on mileage covered.

7. Local Talent Hiring Fee

Uganda boasts a pool of skilled individuals who can augment your shoot, from assistant producers to drone pilots. Hiring fees range from USD 150 to USD 350 per day, depending on the skill set and shoot duration.

8. Fixer Fee for Our Agency

Upon assessing and advising on your shoot’s logistics, Trek Africa Film Fixers applies a fixer fee ranging from USD 200 to USD 400 per day, reflective of the workload and project duration.

For further details on services and associated costs, please reach out to us via email for a prompt response from our dedicated staff. Trek Africa Expeditions is committed to facilitating a seamless filming experience, ensuring your project’s success while navigating the intricacies of permits and permissions in Uganda.