The Uganda Meander

The Murchison National park is suited in the northern part of Albertine Rift Valley. A place where the massive Bunyoro escarpment amalgamate into the enormous plains of Acholi land. It’s well known to be one of Uganda’s ancient conservation areas. In 1926, it was known as a game reserve set up to protect the savannah grassland that was talked about by Winston Church chill in 1907.

Uganda Meander by Corne Schalkwyk 

I wanted to ensure that I get a photo that reflects these vast grasslands that the area is known for, and this buffalo made for a great accent to show the wildlife as well. 

 

Ground level Lizard

Photography can become a great adventure at times. This was one of those adventures along the Kazinga channel in Queen Elizabeth national park in Uganda.

I spotted this Nile monitor also referred to as a water leguaan from the boat as we passed an enclave on the banks of the channel, and hopped off into the shallow water to get a closer look. I decided that this would be a great opportunity to use a smaller lens and get up close and personal. The lizard had incredible colouration and patterning on its skin and I wanted to bring that out.

Nile monitor by Corne Schalkwyk

This in turn meant getting closer that I would normally do in the wild, especially since the water was full of crocks, undeterred I sneaked up (basically crawled) up to the monitor lizard, that surprised me by holding his position. I’m very happy with this photo that really brings out the colour and skin texture as I played around with focus points. 

If you want to visit the area contact Premier Safaris at reservations@premiersafaris.com or have a look at the western wonderland trip on their website at www.premiersafaris.com