FILMING AND PHOTOGRAPHY IN MOUNT RWENZORI – Many tourists ask if it is possible to film and take photographs while hiking to the summit. The answer is yes. You can film and take photos, but make sure your gadgets are waterproof or packed in a waterproof bag to avoid damage before capturing the snow-covered Margherita Peak, which stands at 5,109 meters above sea level.
It is best to wake up as early as 4:00 am, before sunrise, so that you do not face difficulties on the glaciers. In the afternoons and evenings, the glaciers become wet and slippery, making hiking more difficult.
Even though starting early helps, you are also advised to use ropes, crampons, ascenders, and an ice axe, and you must know how to use them properly. This ensures your safety at the summit.
Warm clothing is also important, as the area is very cold. Mount Baker and Mount Speke are also technical to climb, so we advise photographers and filmmakers to carry their own crampons. The ice in these areas is mixed with rocks, making every step risky and requiring extra care.
Your adventure starts at the lower levels, depending on the route you choose. On the way to Kalalama Camp, you pass through tall Afro-montane forest trees.
This is a good chance to capture monkeys such as blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. There are also many plant species, from forest trees to bamboo, seen as you climb through the steep Bamboo Minulopsis Zone.
After resting overnight, you continue to Mutinda Camp the next morning. From there, the journey takes you to Bugata Camp, passing streams and a waterfall. Filming and photography can be done during the hike if you want to capture the summit, but they can also be done during nature walks or cultural visits. Both experiences give you memorable moments.
Before starting, you must obtain permission from the Uganda Media Council and Uganda Wildlife Authority. Once approved, you will be given a media card and permit to confirm your right to film and take photos in the park.
