Filming chimpanzees in Buraiga Sector of Kibale Forest National Park

Filming chimpanzees in Buraiga Sector of Kibale Forest National Park, Uganda, is a special experience, but it requires coordination with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and adherence to specific guidelines. Here are the key details, without external links:

1. Location

• Buraiga/Burahya Sector is a lesser-known part of Kibale National Park, located in western Uganda near Fort Portal.
• The area is part of the broader chimpanzee habitat in Kibale, which is home to over 1,500 individuals.

2. Permits & Filming Authorization

• Filming permits are required from:
  • Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) – for wildlife access and filming in the park.
  • Uganda Media Council – for official filming accreditation in Uganda.
• Additional approval may be needed from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) if drone footage or live transmission is involved.

3. Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX)

• For close and extended filming, UWA typically offers the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience, which allows:
  • Full-day access with researchers and habituation teams.
  • Closer proximity and longer time with chimps than regular tourist treks.
• The Buraiga group is part of the ongoing habituation program, making it suitable for filming.

4. Filming Conditions

• Timing: Best light is early morning (6:30–10:30 AM); chimps are more active then.
• Weather: Drier seasons (December–February, June–August) offer better trail and lighting conditions.
• Equipment: Stabilized, silent gear is advised—chimpanzees are sensitive to noise and movement.
• Crew Size: Small crews (2–4 people) are preferred for minimal disturbance.
• Guides: Filming must be done with UWA rangers and sometimes a researcher present.

5. Fees

• Filming permit in a national park is 40% of the chimpanzee permit.
• Chimpanzee Habituation Experience: $250–300 per person per day.
• Conservation fee: May apply for commercial projects.
• Discounts or package rates may be negotiable for longer projects.

6. Additional Notes

• Advance booking is critical—at least 4–6 weeks ahead for permits and coordination.
• Ethical filming guidelines must be followed—no feeding, no flash, maintain minimum distance (~7m).
• Emergency medical evacuation insurance and vaccination (especially yellow fever) are often required for film crews.

Contact Eco Film Fixers here to arrange for you a successful shoot, Filming chimpanzees in Buraiga Sector of Kibale Forest National Park.