A good gorilla trekking packing list is important for a successful trek. The gear and equipment needed for trekking mountain gorillas are the same across all gorilla trekking destinations in Africa.
These include Virunga National Park in Congo, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda.
Mountain gorillas live in families led by a silverback, the dominant male who guides and protects the group.
When preparing to visit gorillas, make sure you do not forget any essential trekking gear. This article will help you know what to pack.
Once you have bought your gorilla permit, booked your flight, and planned your adventure, pack the following items to get ready.
The gear you pack may change depending on the season, but to be safe, it’s best to pack for all kinds of weather. East Africa’s climate can change quickly.
Trekking Gear for the Wet Season
- Rain jacket: Gorillas live in tropical rainforests, where it rains often. If you visit during the rainy season, there’s a high chance it will rain during the trek. A rain jacket will help keep you dry.
- Good hiking boots: These are the most important item to pack in both dry and wet weather. Since gorillas live in high places, you will hike for hours to find them. Good boots help you walk safely and protect your feet.
- Garden gloves: These are very helpful when you need to grab onto plants or support yourself on rough paths. They protect your hands from scratches and germs.
- Long-sleeved clothes: It’s best to wear long trousers and long-sleeved shirts. These protect you from insects that may bite or crawl into your clothes.
- Warm clothes: It can get very cold in the mountains where gorillas live. Pack some warm clothes to stay comfortable during the trek.
Trekking Gear for the Dry Season
- Sunglasses and hats: It can get very sunny. A hat will protect you from the sun, and sunglasses will help protect your eyes.
- Sunscreen: If you have sensitive skin, sunscreen will help protect you from sunburn.
Gorilla Trekking Equipment for Both Seasons
- Drinking water: You will sweat a lot and need to stay hydrated. Bring enough drinking water because you will not find any in the forest.
- Binoculars: These are useful in any season. All gorilla trekking parks have birds, some of which are only found in this region. Bird lovers will enjoy spotting different species during the trek.
- Camera and extra batteries: You will want to take photos of this special experience. Remember to pack extra batteries. Also, turn off your camera’s flash, as it can scare gorillas.
- Energy snacks and packed lunch: Gorilla trekking can take many hours, even up to 8 hours on some days. Bring energy snacks to keep you going. You can also carry packed lunch from your lodge. Do not throw anything in the forest or feed the gorillas. Everything you bring must be taken back out to avoid spreading diseases.
- Insect repellent: Forests have many insects, and some may bite. Use insect repellent to protect yourself from bites.
Book Your Tour Now
If you want to add more days or visit more places, please contact us through our main contact page using the button below.
