This photo safari is located in the Western region of Uganda - visiting three major wildlife destinations. The first location on the list in Mabamba Swamp. Mabamba Swamp is a unique and ecologically significant wetland located on the shores of Lake Victoria in Uganda. This expansive marshland is renowned for its rich biodiversity and serves as a crucial habitat for a variety of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the region. The swamp is particularly famous for being one of the best places in the world to observe the elusive Shoebill stork, a large bird known for its distinctive shoe-shaped bill and prehistoric appearance. Next on the trip is Kibale Forest. Located in southwestern Uganda, Kibale National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is home to a large population of chimpanzees, making it a prime location for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike. Kibale Forest for chimpanzee photography is an exceptional destination that offers photographers a unique opportunity to capture the beauty and behavior of one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. The last stop is Bwindi Impenetrable forest. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a renowned destination for gorilla photography, attracting wildlife enthusiasts and photographers from around the globe. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in southwestern Uganda, is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is not only a sanctuary for mountain gorillas but also a dream destination for photographers seeking to capture the beauty and essence of these incredible animals in their natural environment.

This trip is expertly guided by Mark Fernley, a highly regarded professional wildlife photographer known for his exceptional skills in capturing the beauty of nature through his lens. With years of experience in the field, Mark brings not only his technical expertise but also a profound passion for wildlife and conservation. He has traveled to numerous remote locations around the globe, documenting the intricate behaviors and habitats of various species, which allows him to share invaluable insights with participants during the trip. In addition to Mark's guidance, the journey is enriched by the presence of local experts in each location we visit. These knowledgeable individuals possess a deep understanding of the local ecosystems, cultural significance, and the unique wildlife that inhabits the area. Their firsthand experiences and connections to the land provide participants with a comprehensive perspective, enhancing the overall learning experience. Together, Mark and the local experts create a dynamic and informative environment, ensuring that every moment of the trip is not only enjoyable but also educational, fostering a greater appreciation for the natural world around us.

Guests are encouraged to bring a camera body with a minimum of 24-megapixels to guarantee the best results. This can be mirrorless or a DSLR, however, keep in mind you will be shooting in low light conditions for both Chimpanzee and Gorilla trekking. A camera that can support higher ISO capabilities is ideal for this trip. Due to the canopy cover, a lens that provides a maximum aperture of f/2.8 to f/4 will offer the best results when photographing Chimpanzees and Gorillas along with other primates species that may be photographed during the trip. When photographing the primates, remember that there is nothing stopping them from getting close so having a close ranger lens rather than a super telephoto lens is ideal. Two great lenses to bring on this trip would include a 70 - 200mm f/2.8 and a 300mm f/2.8 lens. Lastly, when it comes to photographing birds in Mabamba Swamp, a telephoto is the best option. A lens with a reach of 500mm or 600mm is best for photographing the smaller bird species.