Can I Use a Drone to Film Gorillas in Uganda?

Are you planning a trip to Uganda to film gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and wondering whether drones are allowed? Let’s break it down step by step.

Using a Drone in Uganda’s Gorilla Parks

First of all, yes you can use a drone to film gorillas in Uganda. You may either hire a drone locally or import your own. Hiring one within Uganda is usually the most convenient choice. However, if you prefer bringing your own drone, you must follow the official procedure for the importation and operation of a remotely piloted aircraft (drone).

About Mgahinga and Bwindi

Moreover, understanding the uniqueness of these parks is important. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda’s smallest park. It borders Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in Congo, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. The park features three majestic volcanoes—Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Muhabura—which are part of the Virunga range.

On the other hand, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is much larger and is famous for its dense rainforests and diverse gorilla families. Together, both parks protect endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys within ecosystems of tropical rainforests, montane forests, and mountain bamboo.

Is Filming Gorillas in Uganda Possible?

Yes, filming gorillas in Uganda is possible. However, you will need to pay an additional 40% on top of the gorilla permit fee for filming access.

• Mgahinga: Hosts only one gorilla family the Nyakagezi group. Because only 8 trekking permits are issued daily, booking well in advance is essential.
• Bwindi: Offers over 20 habituated families, meaning more than 160 permits are available each day. Still, early booking is strongly advised due to demand.

In both parks, the day starts with a morning briefing by rangers before you trek into the forest. Bwindi’s trekking experience is spread across four different sectors Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo each offering a unique encounter. Therefore, proper planning ensures a rewarding gorilla filming experience.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits

Next, let’s talk about permit costs. A valid gorilla permit must be secured through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The fees are:

• Foreign non-residents: USD 800
• Foreign residents: USD 700
• East African citizens: UGX 300,000
• Rest of African citizens: USD 500

During the trek, you hike through dense forest and rugged terrain. Although challenging, the experience is unforgettable. You spend one magical hour with the gorillas, watching them interact just 7 to 5 meters away. At the end, you receive a certificate to mark your successful trek.

Cost of Transportation to the Parks

Furthermore, transportation costs are another factor to consider. Visiting Mgahinga or Bwindi requires vehicle hire, a driver-guide, and fuel. Prices usually range between USD 100 and USD 250 per day, depending on the type of vehicle. For a typical three-day safari, budget around USD 600 for transport.

Both parks are accessible by road. Bwindi can be reached within 8–9 hours from Kampala or Entebbe, while Mgahinga is a short 45-minute drive from Kisoro town. Additionally, don’t forget a Uganda visa, which costs USD 50 and should be applied for online before arrival.

Cost of Accommodation in Mgahinga and Bwindi

When it comes to accommodation, both parks offer choices for every budget.

• Luxury: Gahinga Lodge in Mgahinga starts at about USD 1,200 per person per night.
• Midrange: Lodges such as Lake Chahafi Lodge and Lake Muhele Lodge average USD 100 per person per night.
• Budget: Kisoro town hotels start as low as USD 50 per night.

In Bwindi, accommodation options spread across the four trekking sectors:

• Buhoma: Silverback Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge, Buhoma Lodge.
• Ruhija: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Mburo Gorge Lodge.
• Rushaga: Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge.
• Nkuringo: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Valley Lodge, Karungi Lodge.

This variety ensures every traveler finds a stay that matches their comfort and budget.

Other Activities in Mgahinga and Bwindi

In addition to gorilla trekking and filming, you can enjoy several other experiences:

• Batwa Cultural Trail: Explore the forest with Batwa guides and learn about their dances, fire-making, and survival traditions.
• Nature Walks: Enjoy peaceful treks through the rainforest, spotting plants and wildlife.
• Village Walks: Visit nearby communities such as the Bafumbira and Bakiga to experience authentic culture.
• Golden Monkey Tracking: Encounter these playful primates in Mgahinga’s bamboo forests.
• Birding: Spot more than 350 bird species, including rare Albertine Rift endemics like the African green broadbill and Grauer’s broadbill.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, yes you can use a drone to film gorillas in Uganda, but only if you follow the proper regulations and secure the necessary permits. Both Mgahinga and Bwindi offer once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to meet the mountain gorillas, complemented by rich cultural encounters and other wildlife activities. With careful planning and early bookings, your gorilla filming adventure will be smooth, exciting, and unforgettable.