Under certain conditions, using drones during gorilla trekking experiences is allowed. What an ultimate wildlife experience gorilla trekking is! Each tourist who is interested in visiting Africa would wish to visit the endangered gorillas. Moreover to do so in their natural homes is memorable. The main activity is gorilla trekking. This is where a visitor spends an hour in the presence of gorillas. Yet, the experience lasts between 2 and 8 hours depending on where the gorillas are located.
There is advanced technology nowadays, and this has introduced drones that take aerial photography shots and have become common to most travelers in East Africa. Drones used on an African safari have built-in cameras with high-quality photos and videos. As of now, drone costs are becoming cheaper, which has created tension among governments in Africa. This is because, drones can be used for investigating, spying and much more. This is because drones were first used for spying purposes by military organizations and other security agencies.
This has called for government bodies such as wildlife authorities to set rules and regulations for any drone that enters the park premises. Some national parks have not allowed the use of drones in park due to the negative effects such as stress they cause on wild animals. This, therefore, calls for cooperation to conserve for generations.
Gorilla trekking takes place in the Bwindi and Mgahinga national parks of Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Kahuzi-Biega and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Each country has its rate for a gorilla trekking permit and these permits are in high demand and hence limited. This calls for earlier bookings to avoid disappointments at the last minute. This permit is issued to persons 15 years of age and above since at this age, you are regarded as an older person.
Uganda and Rwanda are the major hotspots for gorillas. The rule remains that no use of drones during trekking of the endangered mountain gorillas. The hissing noise from the drones scares the gorillas making them run away. Some times on a bad day they might charge and this will lower the experience quality of your gorilla safari in East Africa.
Also, fellow trekkers will miss the best sighting moment. Note that, only permanent residents or citizens of the country can use drones in the country and this means that in case you are traveling with your drone, use someone in Rwanda you know to register it in his or her name.
You can come with your drone on your gorilla safari as long as you have the drone permit. Permits are acquired from the Civil Aviation authority. Tourists interested in applying for the drone permits must get a clearance from the Defense Forces. Try your best to do this at least a month before the travel date. Note that a certain fee is always attached.
Some of the rules to follow include; never using a drone at the airport in Africa, never using a drone in large crowds of people, avoiding using drones at government facilities and military places and many more.
During the briefing exercise, the ranger park guide will tell you the best filming spots to capture great memories without using drones. Gorillas can be photographed using the great quality camera without flashlights. This means that you can come with your drone and it will stay at the safari lodge as you head for the ultimate gorilla trekking adventure.
You cannot travel to any gorilla trekking destination with a drone illegally. This is because the drone will be confiscated and a fine will be imposed on you. This, therefore, calls for your cooperation and you will be on the safer side. For drone hiring, you can also seek our help.
Are you ready to take a gorilla trekking safari in East Africa? Contact us today and we take you there.
