Species profile
About this species
The hooded chameleon, also known as von Hoehnels chameleon, is a small to medium-sized chameleon native to the highlands of East Africa, particularly Kenya & Uganda. It is distinguished by a prominent casque or hood on its head, along with a laterally compressed body & prehensile tail adapted for arboreal life. Like other chameleons, it can change colour in response to temperature, mood & social interaction.
Montane forest edges, highland scrubland & bushy grasslands at elevations between 1500 & 3000 metres in East Africa, particularly in the Kenyan & Ugandan highlands.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Hooded chameleon with us in Madagascar.
These departures are part of our Africa programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning when chameleons are basking to warm up & are less likely to be hidden in dense vegetation. The dry season between June & October tends to offer clearer visibility in their highland habitat.
Approach slowly & avoid sudden movements as chameleons are easily stressed & will freeze or retreat into foliage. Use a macro lens or close-focusing telephoto to capture fine scale detail & the distinctive eye movements. Shoot in overcast conditions or use diffused light to reduce harsh shadows on the textured skin.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Hooded chameleon
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.