I just returned from a week of gorilla trekking in Rwanda. In that time I completed four gorilla treks, managing to visit a different group each time. Needless to say the experience was incredible and something I would highly encourage like minded photographers to give a go at some point.
I have to make special mention of the tour company I used, as they were integral to me having such a good time. Umubano Tours is based in Rwanda and specializes in Gorilla tours. The principal there is a man named Herbert while my specific guide was named Bosco. Herbert was incredibly responsive and helpful while I organized the trip, setting me at ease throughout the process. Bosco, a former primary school teacher, counts many of the gorilla trekking guides among his former students! These relationships, coupled with it being low season, enabled two of my four treks to actually be totally private. That is, just me, the guide, the trackers, and the gorillas. Instead of tacking me on with another group of tourists, I was able to have a whole gorilla group to myself. I'm told this would normally require one to buy every single permit for a group, however my new friends at Umubano were able to make this accommodation for me and for that I feel compelled to let everyone interested in visiting Rwanda know who these guys are.
Anyways, on to the gorillas! Gear used for this trip was two Canon 5DMk3s, one equipped with the 24-70 2.8 Mk2 and the other with the 70-200 2.8 Mk2.
Beautiful images and what a treat to be able to spend time with a newly born gorilla. These experiences are priceless you really made the most out of a unique one being the only person on the tour. It wouldn't surprise me if you being the only one and not having lots of people traipsing around really allowed the gorillas to be even more at ease and acting normally which, with a newborn, is quite special. The low season in Uganda too did reduce the number of people trekking dramatically....we had the same experience with chimps and some also with gorillas.
Eric
This is an amazing series. I love the eye contact that you have managed to capture.
Needless to say, the newborn and its mother is a priceless moment.. you are very fortunate to have been there to capture it.
bruce
dalite wrote:
Great shots. Apparently your 70-200mm lens was long enough for those large targets?
The 70-200 was often more than enough! A few of the above shots were at 70mm or below, actually. The gorillas are remarkably comfortable with their visitors, many having been visited their whole lives. The youngsters take a special interest and often brush right past you. The 24-70 was great for catching these close encounters.
