HIGHLIGHTS

Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife photography Quest through Uganda’s most extraordinary landscapes, designed for photographers who want close, authentic, and ethically guided encounters with primates and iconic African wildlife.

We move from the lush rainforests of Kibale to the open savannas of Queen Elizabeth National Park, into the remote Ishasha sector known for its tree-climbing lions, and finally deep into the mist-shrouded slopes of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest—home of the mountain gorillas. Along the way, every location is chosen for access, light, and photographic potential, with carefully timed game drives, treks, and cultural experiences that maximize your time in the field.

You’ll photograph chimpanzees swinging through ancient rainforest canopies, lions resting in fig trees, elephants along the Kazinga Channel, and some of the richest birdlife in Africa. The journey builds to the most powerful wildlife photography moment on earth: spending time face-to-face with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, with two dedicated trekking opportunities in Bwindi for truly unforgettable encounters.

This expedition is more than a safari—it’s a structured photographic experience led with intention, patience, and deep respect for the wildlife and communities we visit. From conservation projects in Kibale to immersive local encounters, every day offers meaningful storytelling opportunities beyond the wildlife itself.

With comfortable, character-filled lodges positioned inside or near the parks, photographers are always close to the action, ready for golden-hour light, early morning departures, and spontaneous wildlife moments.

This is Uganda at its most raw and beautiful—crafted for photographers who want to come home with more than images, but with stories that can only be earned in the field.

Join us with Photo Quest Adventures and experience one of the most powerful wildlife photography journeys on the planet.

10 Days / 9 Nights

Day 1 – Arrival in Uganda

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport (EBB), you will be met and assisted with entry formalities. Outside the airport, you will be introduced to your professional driver-guide and transferred to Kampala. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing after your international journey.

Overnight: Latitude 0° – Kampala

Property Overview
Perched atop Makindye Hill, Latitude 0° offers sweeping views over Lake Victoria and the city of Kampala. Surrounded by indigenous trees and tropical gardens, this stylish boutique hotel combines contemporary African design with exceptional comfort. Guests enjoy spacious accommodations, outstanding dining, a wellness spa, fitness center, and swimming pool, making it the perfect introduction to Uganda.

Transit Time: Approximately 1 hour
Meals: Dinner

Days 2–4 – Kibale Forest National Park

Day 2 – Flight to Kasese & Community Experience

After breakfast, transfer to Entebbe Airport for your scheduled flight to Kasese. Upon arrival, continue to the Kibale region, known for its lush rainforest and remarkable primate population.

This afternoon, enjoy a Kibale Community Tour near the Bigodi Wetlands, offering an authentic glimpse into local life and culture. You will also have the opportunity to participate in a meaningful conservation initiative by planting a tree as part of a reforestation project near Kibale Forest.

Overnight: Turaco Treetops

Property Overview
Nestled on the edge of Kibale Forest, Turaco Treetops offers a warm and welcoming safari experience with spectacular views of the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains. Spacious cottages blend comfort with nature, while the surrounding forest provides a sanctuary for birds, primates, and other wildlife. The lodge's peaceful setting makes it an ideal base for exploring one of Africa's most biodiverse rainforests.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 – Chimpanzee Trekking

Enjoy breakfast before transferring to Kibale Forest National Park headquarters for your pre-trek briefing. Accompanied by experienced trackers and guides, venture into the rainforest in search of habituated chimpanzee families.

After this unforgettable wildlife encounter, enjoy lunch at Tinka's before returning to the lodge. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Overnight: Turaco Treetops

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 4–6 – Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day 4 – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After a leisurely breakfast, depart Kibale Forest and continue by road to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The scenic journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, arriving in time for lunch.

Later this afternoon, embark on your first game drive in Uganda's most diverse national park, home to elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, antelope, and over 600 bird species.

Overnight: Mweya Safari Lodge

Property Overview
Located on a scenic peninsula overlooking the Kazinga Channel, Mweya Safari Lodge offers spectacular views of both the Rwenzori Mountains and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Every room enjoys water views, while the lodge's elegant facilities include a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar. Wildlife is often visible directly from the lodge grounds, creating an unforgettable safari atmosphere.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Safari & Kazinga Channel Cruise

Begin the day with an early morning game drive when wildlife activity is at its peak. Return for lunch before setting out on an afternoon boat safari along the famous Kazinga Channel.

This remarkable waterway hosts one of Africa's highest concentrations of hippos and offers exceptional opportunities to view crocodiles, elephants, buffalo, and a wide variety of birdlife from the water.

Overnight: Mweya Safari Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6–7 – Ishasha Sector

Day 6 – Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha

Transfer to the remote Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, a journey of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours through spectacular wilderness.

Arrive in time for lunch before heading out for an afternoon wildlife viewing experience. Ishasha is world-renowned for its rare tree-climbing lions, often seen resting in giant fig trees. End the day with a memorable sundowner overlooking the African bush.

Overnight: Ishasha Wilderness Camp

Property Overview
Nestled along the Ntungwe River, Ishasha Wilderness Camp offers an intimate and authentic safari experience in one of Uganda's most pristine wilderness areas. Luxury canvas tents blend seamlessly into the natural environment while providing comfort and exceptional hospitality. Evenings around the campfire are accompanied by the sounds of the African wilderness.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 7–10 – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Day 7 – Transfer to Bwindi

Following a morning game drive and breakfast, depart Ishasha and continue south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The scenic transfer takes approximately 4 to 5 hours through Uganda's beautiful highlands.

Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest.

Overnight: Gorilla Leisure Lodge

Property Overview
Overlooking the mist-covered forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Gorilla Leisure Lodge provides a comfortable and welcoming retreat in one of Africa's most extraordinary wildlife destinations. Spacious cottages offer panoramic forest views, while warm Ugandan hospitality and excellent cuisine create the perfect setting for relaxation before and after your gorilla trekking adventures.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 – Gorilla Trekking Experience

After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for your pre-trek briefing. Accompanied by expert guides and trackers, venture deep into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family.

The trek may take several hours, but the reward is an extraordinary and emotional encounter with one of the world's most endangered species. Spend a magical hour observing the gorillas before returning to the lodge.

Overnight: Gorilla Leisure Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 – Second Gorilla Trekking Experience

Today offers a rare opportunity to enjoy a second gorilla trekking experience, allowing you to visit another gorilla family and gain an even deeper appreciation for these magnificent primates and their habitat.

The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax at the lodge and reflect on your unforgettable encounters.

Overnight: Gorilla Leisure Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 – Return to Entebbe

Following an early breakfast and checkout, transfer approximately 1.5 hours to the airstrip for your scheduled flight from Kisoro to Entebbe (08:35–11:25).

Upon arrival in Entebbe, connect with your later self-booked international departure flight.

Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch

End of Safari

Hanoi:

SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HANOI (5*)

Room Category - Premium Room (Contemporary Opera Wing)

Ho Chi Minh city:

PARK HYATT SAIGON (5*)

Room Category - Park Room

 Ha Long:

CAPELLA CRUISE (27 CABINS) (LAN HA) (5*)

Room Category - Oasis Suite

Hoi An:

MOIRE HOI AN (OLD: BAY RESORT HOI AN) (5*)

Room Category - Deluxe River View

MIRJAM EVERS

Mirjam Evers is a New York City based travel photographer who specializes in travel images, portraiture, landscape photography and adventure images. Born and raised in the Netherlands, Evers has photographed in more than 90 countries, including many of the most exotic places in the world. Evers' photographs are indicative of her unique capacity to personally connect with diverse cultures and communities. Her eye for location lighting is highly stylized and works to illustrate and heighten the unique characteristics of each international locale. She is able to transcend cultural and language barriers with an intangible spirit that is conveyed in every image. Evers is one of the founders of Photo Quest.

Selected Publications: AFAR, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Departures, Golf Magazine, AARP, Outdoor Photographer, Outside Magazine, PDN, American Photo, Popular Photography, Digital Photo, MSN Travel and Town & Country Magazine.

Mirjam's Website 

PASSPORTS & VISAS

All travelers visiting Uganda must obtain an electronic visa prior to arrival.

Visa applications can be submitted online through the official Uganda Immigration website:

https://visas.immigration.go.ug

While official processing times are approximately one week, we strongly recommend applying at least three weeks before departure.

A single-entry tourist visa costs USD $50 and is valid for 90 days. Multiple-entry visas are available for USD $100 and are valid for six to twelve months. Travelers visiting Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya may wish to consider the East Africa Tourist Visa, which costs USD $100 and allows travel within all three countries for up to 90 days.

Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry and contain at least one blank visa page.

Please note that proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is required for both visa issuance and entry into Uganda.

As entry requirements can change, travelers are encouraged to verify current regulations with their local consulate prior to departure.

Health & Vaccinations

Your health and safety are important to us. We strongly recommend consulting your physician or travel clinic well before departure.

Required Vaccination

All travelers over one year of age must present proof of Yellow Fever vaccination upon arrival in Uganda.

Recommended Vaccinations

The World Health Organization recommends:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Polio
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis (TDAP)

Cultural Etiquette

Ugandans are renowned for their warmth, hospitality, and friendliness.

Greetings are an important part of daily life. Taking the time to greet people respectfully is greatly appreciated and helps foster positive interactions.

A few useful Luganda phrases include:

Hello – Hello

How are you? – Oli Otya?

I am fine – Gyendi

Thank you – Webale

You're welcome – Kale

Goodbye – Weeraba

Patience, respect, and a smile will go a long way throughout your travels.

Malaria Prevention

Malaria is present throughout Uganda. Please consult your healthcare provider regarding appropriate anti-malarial medication.

To reduce exposure:

• Wear long sleeves and trousers after sunset
• Apply insect repellent regularly
• Sleep under mosquito nets when provided

Food, Water & Hygiene

To avoid stomach upset during your travels, we recommend eating freshly prepared foods served hot whenever possible.

Drink only bottled or purified water. We also recommend using bottled water when brushing your teeth. Bottled drinking water is readily available throughout Uganda at hotels, lodges, and supermarkets.

Money, Currency & Credit Cards

The official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX).

While major hotels and lodges often accept U.S. Dollars and credit cards, travelers should carry local currency for smaller purchases and gratuities.

Please note:

• USD notes issued before 2009 are generally not accepted
• Torn, damaged, or marked notes may be refused
• Larger denominations typically receive better exchange rates

ATMs are available in Kampala and Entebbe, but may be difficult to find in remote safari areas. We recommend carrying sufficient cash during your safari.

Visa and Mastercard are accepted at many lodges, though a surcharge of 3–10% may apply.

Electricity & Internet

Uganda operates on 220–240 volts with British-style Type G outlets.

We recommend bringing a universal travel adapter.

Gratuities

Tipping is not mandatory but is always appreciated.

Recommended guidelines include:

Driver/Guide:
USD $15–20 per couple per day

Hotel & Lodge Staff:
USD $5–7 per couple per day

Luggage Porters:
USD $1–2 per bag

Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Tips:

Trackers:
USD $10–15

Chief Ranger:
USD $15–20

Porters:
USD $10–15 plus porter fee

Whenever possible, local currency is appreciated.

Suggested Packing List

Uganda's climate varies by region and elevation. Layered clothing is highly recommended.

Suggested items include:

• Lightweight long pants and shirts
• Short-sleeved shirts and t-shirts
• Lightweight rain jacket
• Fleece or warm sweater
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Sandals
• Hat and sunglasses
• Swimsuit
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Camera equipment, batteries, and memory cards
• Binoculars
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Power bank and travel adapters

For gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, we additionally recommend:

• Broken-in hiking boots
• Hiking socks
• Daypack
• Waterproof jacket
• Lightweight hiking gloves (optional)
• Walking stick (optional)

Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking

One of the highlights of any Uganda safari is spending time with mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitat.

Treks begin with a ranger briefing and can vary in duration depending on the location of the animals. Trails often pass through dense forest, uneven terrain, and steep hillsides.

Once the gorillas are located, visitors are permitted one unforgettable hour in their presence.

Helpful Trekking Tips

Wear long pants, hiking boots, and lightweight layers. Tucking pants into socks helps protect against insects and vegetation.

Bring a small daypack with:

• Camera equipment
• Water bottle
• Snacks or packed lunch
• Rain jacket

Porters are available for hire and are highly recommended. They assist with carrying gear and navigating difficult terrain while also supporting local communities and conservation efforts.

Flash photography is strictly prohibited during gorilla and chimpanzee encounters.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travelers.

Your policy should include:

• Medical coverage
• Emergency evacuation coverage
• Trip cancellation and interruption protection
• Lost or delayed baggage protection

Please contact Photo Quest Adventures if you would like assistance obtaining travel insurance.