Updated
For gorilla trekking, a modern mirrorless camera is usually the better choice: it is lighter, its electronic viewfinder shows exposure before you shoot, eye and animal detection autofocus helps in dark forest, and silent shutters avoid disturbing the gorillas. A good DSLR you already know still works well, especially with a fast lens. What matters most is high-ISO performance, a fast zoom and being comfortable with your camera.
Where mirrorless wins
In Bwindi’s mix of deep shade and bright gaps, seeing the exposure in the viewfinder before you press the shutter saves shots. Animal eye detection locks onto a gorilla’s face through leaves better than most DSLR systems. Electronic shutters are silent, which is appreciated by guides and other visitors. Most mirrorless bodies are also smaller, which helps on steep, slippery trails.
Where a DSLR still holds up
DSLRs have long battery life, an optical viewfinder with no lag, and many are tough and weather-sealed. If you already own a DSLR and fast lenses, there is no need to switch for one trip; use a high ISO, a fast shutter speed and practise beforehand. Bring extra batteries for mirrorless cameras, which use more power.
Which to bring
Choose the system you know best, pair it with a fast 70-200 mm or 100-400 mm zoom, and practise in low light before you travel. Flash is banned near gorillas. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to the best lens, camera settings, the photography kit checklist and batteries.
Frequently asked questions
Mirrorless usually has the edge, but a DSLR you know well is fine.
Exposure preview, eye-detection autofocus and silent shooting.
Yes, bring at least three.
Not necessarily; practise with what you have and invest in a fast lens.
