Although popularly known as the home of 50 orphaned chimpanzee rescued from the illegal game meat trade, the Ngamba Island Sanctuary is a lot more than just a chimpanzee Sanctuary but rather an island of unending wildlife Photography and filming opportunities that include a possibility to track, see and Film reptiles that roam the 100 acres of natural forest all surrounded by the famous Lake Victoria – Africa’s largest & second Largest freshwater lake in the world. Reptile Filming on Ngamba Island
Ngamba Island is a prime filming location for media companies seeking to film reptiles like Africa’s largest ground lizard – the Nile monitor lizards, the agama lizards, tortoise, and quite a variety of snakes. Ngamba’s location on the gigantic Lake Victoria makes for a perfect filming backdrop for your reptile film shoot.
Best time to Film Reptiles on Ngamba Island
Generally speaking, the best time to film depends on what you intend to film. For instance, individuals or film crew intending to film the reptiles in Uganda or Ngamba Island might consider coming in the dry season months of June-August, and January to February. Reptiles like the Agama and monitor lizards tend to be a lot more active during this time and have been sighted busking on rocks, and by the shorelines.
Requirements for Filming Reptiles on Ngamba Island
- Press Accreditation issued by the Uganda Media Council ( See: How to apply for Press accreditation in Uganda)
- Location Filming Permit – Issued by the management of Ngamba Island.
Realm Africa Safaris™ is a local film crew fixer based in Entebbe and can assist with securing all the above permits & permissions.
Where to Stay During the Shoot Reptile Filming on Ngamba Island
Guided by your budget, Entebbe has quite a variety of accommodation options to choose from. However, we like to recommend particular; Hotel NO.5 for travellers seeking a luxurious hotel, Karibu Guesthouse is our favourite great-value recommendation or the Airport Link Guesthouse for film Crew looking for an affordable and yet comfortable Place to stay in Entebbe. All the properties mentioned are centrally located.
Alternatively, crew members can opt to stay on-site at the Ngamba eco-lodge overlooking the picturesque Lake Victoria. Here you could also opt to bring your own tent and experience camping on Ngamba Island.
