About the expedition
Uganda is one of those destinations where every day takes us to a completely different setting. Wetlands, savannas, the Nile River, and tropical forests will serve as the backdrop for an expedition designed for those seeking to experience and photograph wildlife up close and in an intense way.
Over the course of 9 days, we’ll seek out some of the country’s most iconic species: the extraordinary Shoebill, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, hippos, and the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. Between 4x4 safaris and boat excursions, we’ll traverse some of Uganda’s richest ecosystems.
But the highlight of this trip awaits us in the forests of Bwindi. We’ll have two separate opportunities to enter the forest and encounter the mountain gorillas, allowing us to observe and photograph different families and behaviors in their natural habitat.
This is an expedition designed for photographing, observing, and experiencing nature, in a small group with plenty of time to seek out not only species, but also behaviors, light, and the moments that transform an encounter into a photograph.
Itinerary
DAY 1 | ENTEBBE
We begin our expedition in one of Uganda’s most iconic wetlands, Mabamba Swamp, considered one of the best places in Africa to observe and photograph the extraordinary shoebill.
On a canoe trip through the canals surrounded by papyrus, we’ll search for this iconic species and many other birds typical of wetlands, such as the African fish eagle, kingfishers, jacanas, herons, and egrets.
After the activity, we’ll return to Entebbe to rest and prepare for the next few days of the expedition.
Featured species: Shoebill.
DAY 2 | ZIWA RHINO SANCTUARY -> MURCHISON FALLS
After breakfast, we’ll leave Entebbe and begin our journey toward Murchison Falls National Park.
Along the way, we’ll stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where we’ll have a very special experience: searching for and photographing southern white rhinos on foot, accompanied by a specialized ranger.
After lunch, we’ll continue our journey to Murchison Falls. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Top of Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River is forced through a gorge just 7 meters wide before plunging 43 meters.
A day that combines wildlife and landscape photography.
Travel: approximately 350 km / 6–7 hours, excluding stops.
Featured species: Southern white rhinoceros.
DAY 3 | MURCHISON FALLS
We’ll start early with our first major photo safari, exploring the plains of Murchison Falls.
We’ll be on the lookout for lions, elephants, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffalo, leopards, and various species of antelope, taking advantage of the early morning hours to photograph them in the most favorable light.
In the afternoon, we’ll shift our perspective completely with a boat trip down the Nile River toward the base of Murchison Falls.
Along the way, we’ll be able to photograph hippos, Nile crocodiles, and other species along the riverbanks before turning our attention back to the breathtaking landscape of the falls.
One of the days with the greatest photographic diversity of the entire expedition.
DAY 4 | MURCHISON FALLS -> QUEEN ELIZABETH
After breakfast, we’ll leave Murchison Falls National Park and head to the next region of our expedition.
To avoid a long drive and maximize the time spent on photography and wildlife viewing, we’ll make this journey via a domestic flight to the Queen Elizabeth National Park region.
Upon arrival, we’ll head to our accommodations, and depending on the flight schedule, we may be able to spend the late afternoon on a photo safari on the Kasenyi Plains.
Here we’ll have the opportunity to seek out and photograph Uganda kob, African elephants, buffalo, African warthogs, lions, and other predators, taking advantage of the late-afternoon light whenever possible.
Travel: domestic flight between the Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park regions.
DAY 5 | QUEEN ELIZABETH
We set out before sunrise for a photo safari through the Kasenyi plains, taking advantage of the early morning hours when wildlife is most active.
We’ll be on the lookout for lions, elephants, buffalo, Ugandan cobos, waterbucks, hyenas, giant forest hogs, and, with any luck, the ever-elusive leopard.
In the afternoon, we’ll take a boat trip along the Kazinga Channel, known for its large concentrations of hippos and the presence of elephants, buffalo, and crocodiles along the banks.
It will also be one of the trip’s highlights for bird photography, with the chance to spot African fish eagles, kingfishers, African skimmers, saddle-billed storks, pelicans, and many other species.
DAY 6 | QUEEN ELIZABETH -> ISHASHA
We leave the central region of Queen Elizabeth and head through the remote Ishasha sector, known for one of the most curious behaviors of African big cats: its famous tree-climbing lions.
We’ll go on a safari dedicated to searching for these animals, which can be seen resting on the branches of large fig trees.
In addition to the lions, we’ll be on the lookout for elephants, buffalo, topi, Ugandan kob, and countless species of birds.
After the safari, we’ll continue our journey toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
The savanna gradually gives way to hills and forest, setting the stage for a completely different experience over the next two days.
DAY 7 | BWINDI
We’ve reached one of the most eagerly anticipated moments of the entire expedition.
After a briefing with the rangers, we’ll enter the Bwindi Forest accompanied by specialized guides and trackers, in search of a habituated family of mountain gorillas.
The trek may vary in duration, depending on the animals’ location. Once we find the family, we’ll have an hour to observe and photograph the gorillas in their natural habitat.
Silverbacks, infants, family interactions, feeding, play, and subtle gestures may provide us with some of the most memorable moments of the entire trip.
After the trek, we’ll return to our lodging to rest, share our experiences, and back up our photos.
Featured species: Mountain gorilla.
DAY 8 | BWINDI
We return to the forest for a second encounter with the mountain gorillas.
The itinerary includes a second outing, allowing us to visit a different family of gorillas and have an experience that could be completely different from the first.
The light, location, animal behavior, and group composition may change entirely, offering new opportunities to photograph silverbacks, juveniles, portraits, and family interactions.
Having two opportunities also allows us to approach this second encounter with greater composure: to observe more closely, anticipate behaviors, and seek out images that go beyond simply documenting the species.
DAY 9 | BWINDI -> ENTEBBE
After breakfast, we’ll leave Bwindi and begin our return journey to Entebbe.
Along the way, we’ll travel through the landscapes of southwestern Uganda, passing through hills, farmlands, villages, and local markets.
We’ll make a stop at the Uganda Equator before continuing on toward Entebbe.
We’re scheduled to arrive in the late afternoon or early evening, bringing our expedition to a close.
Travel distance: approximately 500 km / 8–10 hours, including stops.
IMPORTANT — INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT: Due to the length of the journey on the last day, we recommend that your return international flight be booked for the day after the expedition ends. Alternatively, a very late flight on the night of Day 9 may be considered, subject to prior confirmation of flight schedules by the organizers.
Included Services
✅ 8 nights of accommodations;
✅ Meals included in the itinerary;
✅ Transfers and transportation in a private 4x4;
✅ Rhino tracking on foot at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary;
✅ Photo safaris in a private 4x4;
✅ 3 boat/canoe safaris;
✅ Domestic flight from Murchison Falls to Queen Elizabeth
✅ 2 gorilla treks, with permits;
✅ Park entrance fees and taxes;
✅ Local guides and rangers;
✅ Water during the expedition;
✅ Support and photography guidance by Andreia Costa
Not Included Services
❌ International flights
❌ Entry visa for Uganda
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
❌ Tips
❌ Camera equipment
❌ Personal expenses
❌ Activities not mentioned in the itinerary
General
This trip is designed for all photography and nature enthusiasts, regardless of their level of experience or the equipment they use. During the expedition, each participant will receive personalized guidance tailored to their photographic goals.
Your spot is guaranteed upon payment of a deposit (€1,000), which will be deducted from the total cost once the trip is confirmed. If the minimum number of participants is not reached, the deposit will be refunded. However, if a participant withdraws, the deposit will not be refunded.
If registration is made more than 90 days before the trip begins, full payment must be made by that date.
If registration is made less than 90 days before the trip begins, payment must be made in full at the time of booking; otherwise, participation cannot be guaranteed.
Rooms will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to same-sex roommates. If single rooms are available, they will also be assigned according to this order.
If you have dietary restrictions, please let us know in advance so we can ensure alternative meal options.
The itinerary provided is subject to change and may be adjusted based on weather conditions, guidance from local guides, or unforeseen logistical issues.
We recommend checking the terms of your health insurance for international coverage or considering purchasing travel insurance that includes medical assistance.
Cancellation Policy
Reserving a Spot
Registration is considered final upon payment of a deposit, which will be deducted from the total cost of the trip. This amount guarantees your spot, but is non-refundable in the event of cancellation by the participant, regardless of the reason.
Cancellation by the Participant
After official confirmation of the trip (once the minimum number of participants has been reached), the following conditions apply in the event of cancellation by the traveler:Replacement of a Participant
- No refund will be issued.
If the participant cancels the trip, they may designate another person to take their place, provided that the substitution occurs at least 20 days before the departure date and the new participant accepts the same agreed-upon conditions.
Cancellation due to failure to reach the minimum number of participants
The trip will only take place with a minimum of 6 participants. If this number is not reached, the organization reserves the right to cancel the expedition. In this case, the deposit and any other amounts paid will be refunded in full, without penalty.
Cancellation due to force majeure
In exceptional circumstances (such as changes in health conditions, security, natural disasters, or other external causes that jeopardize the trip), the organization may cancel or postpone the expedition. Participants will be notified as far in advance as possible and will be entitled to a refund of the amounts paid or to reschedule for a new date.
Insurance Recommendation
It is strongly recommended that you purchase travel insurance covering cancellation, medical assistance, and repatriation to ensure protection in the event of personal or operational contingencies.
Recommendations
Documentation — Passport: Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Uganda.
Visa: Portuguese citizens need a visa, which must be applied for online before traveling. The single-entry tourist visa currently costs 50 USD.
Required vaccinations: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Uganda.
Local currency: Ugandan shilling (UGX). It is also recommended to bring USD for some tourist expenses.
Time difference: Uganda is in UTC+3—typically +2 hours in winter and +3 hours in summer relative to mainland Portugal.
Language: English is one of the official languages and will be the language used by the guides during the expedition.
Climate: Temperatures are generally mild to hot, with higher humidity in forested areas. Lightweight, waterproof clothing and footwear suitable for trekking are recommended.
Cell service: Cell service and internet coverage may be limited or nonexistent in some remote areas, parks, and forested regions.
Electricity: Type G outlets; it is recommended to bring an adapter.
Luggage: It is recommended to travel with flexible luggage and compact photography equipment, especially due to the domestic flight and gorilla treks.
Tour highlights
Accommodations
Throughout the expedition, we will stay at carefully selected lodges and accommodations, prioritizing location, comfort, and proximity to the areas where our activities will take place.
In some regions, we will be in the heart of nature or near national parks, allowing us to make the most of the early and late hours of the day, which are so important for wildlife photography.
Accommodations will be in shared double/twin rooms, with meals provided as outlined in the itinerary.
Note: The listed accommodations may be replaced by others of a similar category in the event of a change in availability.
Testimonials
Sandra Cirne
Kenya/Pantanal/Guatemala
I've been on three tours organised by Andreia: Kenya, Bolivia and Pantanal.
Completely different destinations with one thing in common... all the tours were incredibly well organised, from flights, stopovers, transfers, hotels, meals, guides, transport and itineraries in every destination.
From minus 20 degrees in Uyuni Salt Flats, to my first steps in astrophotography, tracking down jaguars and the BIG5 in Kenya, it was worth every second and every experience that Andreia provided us with.
An incredible companion who also passed on her love of wildlife photography to me!
Keep up the excellent work and thank you for everything!
Bárbara Pedro
Thailand
In August 2024, I had the opportunity to embark on an incredible 15-day trip to Thailand, passing through Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Phuket. Everything was meticulously organised by Andreia. From the beginning, Andreia showed exceptional care for every detail, creating an itinerary perfectly balanced between culture, adventure and moments of leisure and relaxation.
In Chiang Mai, the elephant experience was undoubtedly the highlight of the trip. We visited a sanctuary where we were able to interact with these magnificent animals in a responsible and respectful manner. The sanctuary aims to rescue and rehabilitate elephants that have suffered abuse in tourist activities.
During the entire trip, Andreia made sure that every moment was special and well organised, from the smallest things like transfers to meals, allowing us as a group to make the most of each destination without any logistical worries.
I highly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to experience Thailand in an authentic and responsible way, with a higher awareness of respect for animals and the local culture. The trip not only provided me with unforgettable memories, but also made me reflect on the importance of contributing to causes that help protect nature and animals.
Pedro Batalha
Thailand
Simply memorable.
And all thanks to Andreia's organization and planning of the whole trip.
Every day we had a set itinerary full of interesting places to visit. From the streets of Bangkok, the Maeklong Railway Market, the
Elephant Rescue Park in Chiang Mai and the boat trips around the Phi Phi Islands, every experience had a unique cultural value that I'm sure will remain in every member of the group's memory.
Wherever we were, people were always kind and very welcoming. The language barrier is a reality, but it was always possible to communicate perfectly. The Thai cuisine was also an excellent surprise, with delicious, authentic and very cheap food. I highly recommend the local street food areas, full of fresh fruit stands and freshly prepared grills.
Highly recommended!
Cláudia Fialho
Guatemala
The overall trip was very good. The organization was a rating 10 and the activities were on time. Despite the long journeys, the transport was in comfortable vehicles with experienced drivers. Safety was a rating of 1000!
As for the accommodation, the hotels/hostels were adequate, except for the hotel in Antigua because of the breakfast episode and because it was claustrophobic. It's worth returning to the Bucaros hotel.
Finally, I loved the experience of visiting Guatemala with you.
Ana Rita André
Morocco/Guatemala
I had the opportunity to travel to Guatemala for 9 days with Andreia and it was simply incredible! As well as being a very talented photographer, she's also an exceptional expedition leader. Everything was planned down to the last detail - I didn't have to worry about anything, just enjoy it.
The trip was a complete experience: stunning landscapes, a rich culture and unforgettable moments, always with the perfect curation of locations and opportunities to capture incredible photographs.
Everything was impeccably organised, balancing adventure, comfort and safety. I totally recommend it to anyone looking for an authentic and well-planned trip!
Rute Fonseca
Pantanal/Bolivia/Kenya
I've travelled on several expeditions organised by Andreia and I can say that every trip has been unique and extraordinary, guaranteed to be some of the most unforgettable I've ever been on. Andreia thinks of every detail to provide incredible experiences and make every moment memorable. Her commitment and passion for travelling is remarkable.
Everything is organised in an impeccable way which has allowed us to make the most of it without any worries. Her guidance is very close throughout the trip and she is always willing to share her vast knowledge of photography and help with any questions we may have. I can assure you that she is spectacular company.
There's no doubt that I'll be taking part in Andreia's expeditions again, and I couldn't recommend her more highly!
Bruno Santos
Morocco/Guatemala
I’ve had the privilege of traveling with Andreia Costa on two unforgettable experiences.
She organizes everything with such care that you don’t have to worry about anything - you can just enjoy yourself.
The first trip was to Morocco, where we explored the Sahara desert. The organization was impeccable, from transportation to accommodations, which allowed us to witness the desert in a authentic and stress free way. The night we slept under the stars is something I’ll never forget about.
In Guatemala we visited Lake Atitlan and Antigua, but the highlight was climbing the Acatenango Volcano, where we spent the night at an altitude of 3.800 meters, with a fantastic view at dawn. We also had the chance to explore Tikal at dawn while looking for jaguars, and managed to photograph the Milky Way in the jungle - a magical moment.
Andreia was an exceptional guide on both trips, always attentive to detail, making sure everything ran smoothly and that everybody felt safe. If you’re looking for a well-organized trip full of authentic culture, she’s the right choice.
Beatriz Pedro
Thailand
Last year I went on my dream trip: I traveled to Thailand!
An absolutely unforgettable experience, with everything thought out and taken care of in detail by Andreia Costa! And all I can say is that it was incredible from start to finish.
We started our trip in Bangkok, where we immersed ourselves in the city’s energy, explored stunning temples, and still had time for some tuk tuk rides between a markets, flavors and incredible views!
Then we headed to Chiang Mai, up north, where calmness and nature were prevalent. We visited an elephant santuary, got to know the local culture more closely and experienced those kind of moments that will stay in our memories forever. One of my favorite places in Thailand!
The last stop was in Phuket, for a few days of resting. The beaches are absolutely paradise, the markets with super fresh seafood and a beautiful city, very Cuban!
Andreia always took into account our preferences, the type of trip we wanted to take and gave us suggestions that made all the difference!
If I could, I'd go back tomorrow! And I'll definitely trust Andreia again for future trips. I recommend her 100%.
Thanks for everything, Andreia 💛
Sheila Pedrosa
Kenya
An unforgettable experience..Every day exceeded expectations..
Everything organized everything impeccable.. the guides 10 stars.. the parks and local hotels enrich the whole trip..
A mixture of cultures, fotography and images.. Living for 10 days in the grandiosity of nature.. This nature that expresses itself in its own language.. And with photographers that capture every moment in images!!!
The group 10 stars
I highly recommend travelling with photographers, particularly with Andreia..
I couldn’t be more satisfied more pleased more happy more grown up more enriched more everything
Thank you Andreia Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Helena Pedrosa
Kenya/Iberian Lynx
I don't believe my vocabulary could ever allow me to trully describe what these 10 days full of life, nature, happyness, humor and good living meant/felt like to me. Everything was organized to the smallest detail since the very beginning, immediate availability to attend to any doubts, questions or fears one could have even before we met at the airport. I am sure I'll forever keep with me the memories from this trip, and not just through the countless pics and videos of high quality that the amazing photographers that joined us, blessed us with. I loved all of it, the safaris with splendorous views, the inumerous animals from all species, shapes and colours, this group full of beautiful people, the +5 stars guides. I can only express my imense gratitude for this oportunity and fresh air, am leaving with a full happy heart.
Thank you so so much Andreia! I'm ready for the next trips you plan.
Teresa Fonseca
Kenya
This was a fantastic trip! A new experience for me, a challenge from my daughter, which greatly exceeded all my expectations and left me wanting to do it all over again. I had never been on a safari before, I was very curious and I became a fan. Andreia Costa did a spectacular job, with thorough support and everything very well organized. Nothing was missed! A very cheerful and united group. Thank you all!
Congratulations, Andreia!
Carlos Fonseca
Kenya
This trip to a safari in Kenya exceeded my expectations. I really enjoyed the group, which was spectacular. Seeing the animals in the wild is something else, and it was great that we saw the ones that are hardest to find, the big five, right away, it seemed like they knew they were being photographed by good photographers, Andreia Costa and colleagues. The guides were spectacular. My first balloon ride baptism was unforgettable.
We will try to go on the next safaris you organize, Andreia. Thank you.
Carla Cameira
Kenya/Tanzania
I would like to express my huge gratitude for these 10 wonderful days we spent together. It was an unforgettable vacation, where everything went so well. Andreia Costa's organization was simply spectacular and helped everything run smoothly.
The group that was established was something very special.
I loved every moment, every shared experience, every laugh.
Paulo Cabral
Kenya/Spain/Tanzania
I can only thank you for organizing this trip, for the coincidence of seeing it advertised on Instagram, for thinking that who better to show me what a safari in Africa is like than a professional photographer with experience in photographing nature and wildlife like you do like no other.
Everything was excellent: your organization, the places we stayed, the guides you chose were very good and unbeatable at finding the animals and stopping the jeeps in the best spots for us to photograph them. The entire trip program was well thought out, both from a cultural point of view, with visits to local tribes, and from an animal life point of view, visiting parks where we saw and photographed the Big 5 and many more animals in the wild in their natural habitat (and lots of birds too😁😅). I would like to highlight the visit to the sanctuary of the endangered Northern White Rhinos.
I also want to express my gratitude for the luck I had of the wonderful group that went on this adventure, a bunch of extraordinary, fun, friendly people, always in a good mood and concerned with the flow and well-being of the group 🙂👍🏻.
I enjoyed it so much that, as you know, I have already signed up to go with you on your next photography trips.
Bernardo Queiróz
Kenya
I haven’t been on a Safari for 20 years, I came eager to find as many animals as possible and improve my skills as a photographer. Andreia Costa from Capture Atlas, left no detail to chance, being relentless, going into detail, ensuring everyone’s well-being and individual will, all with a calm and simplicity that make us feel at home and with family. Not only did I see more animals than I had imagined, but I was able to see them outside of the confusion of the crowded parks, with all the support and security.
Without a doubt an experience to repeat
Rui Flores
Spain/Tanzania
An absolutely unforgettable experience!
Participating in the Iberian Lynx expedition with Andreia was an exciting and enriching experience. From the very beginning, everything was meticulously organized: transportation, accommodation, and observation sessions in strategically positioned hides.
Andreia is an exceptional leader—attentive, experienced, and passionate about wildlife photography. Her constant presence and support made all the difference. Each hide session was a lesson in patience, where silence turned into adrenaline with every movement in the vegetation.
The group was small, which created an intimate and collaborative environment. The exchange of experiences among the participants made this expedition not only a photographic opportunity, but also a true immersion in the “ecosystem” of photography.
I highly recommend it to all lovers of wildlife (and adventure) and photography. Thank you, Andreia, for providing moments that will stay with me forever! This was just the first of many...
Miguel Gonçalves
Spain
I had the opportunity to go with Capture Atlas on an expedition to Spain to try to witness and photograph the rare Iberian lynx.
I can say that it was one of the best experiences I've ever had. Andreia was very friendly, caring, and patient. She answered everything without any problems and with great readiness.
We stayed in a house with all the amenities and very close to the hides, which saved us energy and time for a day of observation.
To top off the wonderful experience, the lynxes did us the favor of coming to say hello twice.
I have only good things to say and am grateful for this incredible experience.
I have already signed up for next year!
Gonçalo Garcia
Spain
I always try to go without expectations when it comes to wildlife because it doesn't depend solely on us, but I had a very positive feeling about this expedition, and that's how it turned out.
I met new people who shared my interests, learned a lot about photography and animals and their habits, and came away with some great memories (photos/videos) of one of the most epic felines in the world.
An experience to be repeated.
João Almeida
Spain
It was my first experience of this kind and, honestly, I didn't really know what to expect, but it ended up exceeding my expectations. Andreia is an excellent professional, dedicated and genuinely concerned with providing the best possible experience for those who participated in this trip.
Being able to spend three days in the heart of Spain, in a shelter, and having the opportunity to document one of the rarest felines in the world was simply fantastic. All the logistics, the atmosphere, and the attention made the experience memorable from start to finish.
I will definitely repeat this adventure with Andreia and would love to explore other locations with her in the future. I highly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to connect more closely with nature and wildlife in an authentic and responsible way.
João Miranda
Spain - Iberian Lynx and Birds of Prey
This was my first time participating in a photography expedition of this kind. I loved it. Andreia Costa was impeccable in terms of organization, control, and monitoring of participants, both in small groups and individually. I will definitely participate in new expeditions organized by Andreia Costa. I highly recommend it.
Pedro Lemos
Iberian lynx - Spain
We took a guided tour by car from Portugal to Spain to spot the Iberian lynx. The trip was well organized, and the location chosen by Andreia was excellent. We stayed in comfortable accommodations and had unique opportunities to spot and photograph this magnificent species. The group of nine people—some of whom had already gone on other expeditions with Andreia—was very welcoming.
It was a truly worthwhile experience. I highly recommend it. I came back with a heart full of memories and memory cards full of photos!
The only suggestion I can offer is to tell everyone to bring a camera bag to this particular shelter. There were a few times when there were 6 or 7 of us trying to photograph the lynx, crouching or on our knees, and some protection would have helped.
On to the next one!
Ernestina Silva
Iberian lynx - Spain
The expedition to the lynx habitat was a wonderful experienc, a dream come true. Everything was organized flawlessly to help us make the most of our time, always with respect and admiration for wildlife.
Rui Nunes
Iberian lynx - Spain
I joined this adventure hoping to see an Iberian lynx—and maybe, if I was lucky, take a photo—but the experience exceeded all my expectations. It was absolutely incredible. Thank you, Andreia, for this unique opportunity.