The Pearl of Africa

Uganda is one of the world’s most densely populated countries, and the land is a patchwork of every crop imaginable. The altitude plays a role in what grows where, but every inch of the land is cultivated, or so it seems at first.

Once you delve a little deeper, you realise that the country also plays host to some of the most magical wildlife on the African continent. The ‘Pearl of Africa’, as the country is often referred to, is famous for its primates, but it offers a whole lot more, with a staggering diversity of birds and other mammals making an appearance.

Undoubtedly, it is the great apes and numerous other primates that make Uganda unique and such a draw. As such, the ethereal forests of Kibale and Bwindi were the primary focus for our photography tour.

Kibale Forest is a large stretch of forest in the south-west of the country, forming a vast protected area contiguous with Queen Elizabeth National Park. Heading out into the forest here, you’re full of excitement. Wandering along the trails, the trees are filled with the sound of our closest cousin – the chimpanzee. Chimps draw you in, evoking both fascination and with fear. This is a species much like our own – volatile and unpredictable.

As they scream at one another, your adrenaline levels are as high as their calls are loud. Then you see them. A large, muscular form powers across the forest floor before ascending a tree with absolute ease. Then there’s another chimp, and another. This time they settle in front of you, and you are lost in the sudden tranquillity.

Being so close to a chimpanzee is truly remarkable, and the photography opportunities are plentiful. When these primates decide to move on again, it is hard to keep up, but following them through their domain is all part of the experience.

Before heading on to Bwindi, we stopped in the beautiful landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park and, in particular, the Ishasha sector. The area is famed for its tree-climbing lions, but unfortunately, we were unable to locate them during our stay. Instead, we had to settle for a memorable leopard encounter. This beautiful cat decided to climb a tree only a short distance from where we were sitting in our vehicle. Then she paused to stretch and sharpen her claws.

On to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Even its name conjures up images of strangling vines, thorny undergrowth and towering trees. It is here we would search for mountain gorillas. These gentle giants live on the forest-clad slopes and, by the nature of the terrain, are not the easiest subjects to find and photograph.

Trekking along a trail, we suddenly hear the call from a tracker ahead. However, we are high on a ridge and the calls come from far below. Within moments, we are slipping and sliding our way down the slope, working our way to the valley floor. When we lock eyes with a gorilla, every effort will be worth it. 

It is a life-changing experience to be so close to such a remarkable animal. I have goosebumps now just thinking back. The silverback powers by, females cradle their young, and you can’t help but watch, wondering whether it is all real. Every second you have with them, you want to experience over and over again. Once you have come face-to-face with a gorilla, nothing will be the same again, and it will only leave you wanting more.

If you'd like to encounter the chimpanzees and mountain gorilla's of Uganda, check out our group trips and trip ideas. For expert advice on your next wildlife holiday, or to book your next adventure, contact our team today.