What to Pack for a Gorilla-Trekking Safari in Uganda

A gorilla-trekking safari is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a unique experience in nature. As one of our closest genetic relatives, time spent with gorillas evokes our primal selves, bringing us closer to nature and inspiring us to protect the planet and its inhabitants.

Gorillas live in a mountainous rainforest habitat, in countries like Uganda and Rwanda in East Africa. So, getting to see them is going to take some effort and it is best to be well prepared.

Gorilla-trekking requires being adequately fit to spend hours navigating the jungle terrain in often hot and wet conditions.

On top of this, you’ll need the right gear. In this article, we’ll share some essential tips on what to pack, what is available to rent, types of clothing and footwear, and other necessities to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Types of Clothing

When deciding what to wear, opt for clothing that is lightweight with moisture-wicking qualities, that can be worn in layers.

Doing so will enable you to hike through varying climate conditions, adding and removing layers as necessary. You are likely to move through areas with thorny vegetation and insects are ever-present, so long-sleeved shirts and long pants are essential.

The fabric should be breathable, allowing it to dry quickly in an environment that is typically hot and damp. Avoid brightly colored clothing, opting rather for neutral tones like green, gray, khaki or brown.

Given the likelihood of rain in the tropical forest, you must have a lightweight waterproof jacket. Preferably one that is packable and easily stored in your backpack.

A fleece or light-down jacket is useful when it gets cooler in the early morning and after dark.

Amount of Clothing

Finding and spending time with gorillas can be tricky, so you might not see them on your first attempt. As such, you may need to stay in the area for a few days, returning to your lodge each evening.

We have a comprehensive Safari Packing List, which provides more detail on what to pack, especially if you are combining your gorilla-trek with a safari.

For the trek, however, pack enough clothing without overpacking. Clothing should be versatile and quick-drying so that it can be washed and reused.

Recommended Footwear

Having the right footwear is essential when navigating the rugged forest terrain. Good, robust hiking boots with ample ankle support and a well-lugged sole are recommended.

These help maintain stability and prevent injuries on muddy and uneven paths. Ideally, they should be waterproof and breathable.

Remember, if your feet get wet inside your boots, they will be cold, shrivel and prone to blisters.

Gaiters are protective coverings that are worn over your boots, extending upwards to cover your lower legs. They prevent mud, water and insects from getting into your boots, while also protecting your lower legs from scratches and cuts.

They are very useful when walking through dense vegetation that is often damp.

For before and after the actual trek, pack a pair of comfortable closed walking shoes and a pair of sandals or flip-flops.

Other Recommended Clothing and Gear

Several other items will enhance your comfort and protection when gorilla-trekking. A hat with a wide brim will protect you from the sun and help keep your head warm in cooler conditions. You could also bring a lightweight beanie. In either case, ensure that it is lightweight with moisture-wicking properties.

The vegetation can be very dense, with many plants having thorns or hiding insects. It is therefore a good idea to wear gloves. Ideally, these should be robust and waterproof, however, a good pair of gardening gloves should suffice.

Protect your skin from harmful UV rays and insect bites by carrying both sunscreen and insect repellant. Pack a small first-aid kit that contains antihistamine ointment, plasters, antiseptic, painkillers, anti-inflammatories, tweezers and a crepe bandage or two. Wet wipes are also useful.

For viewing and capturing memories, pack a decent pair of binoculars with good light-gathering properties and a camera. Bearing in mind that you will have to carry it in difficult terrain and visibility might be reduced to just a few meters, very large zoom lenses can be a nuisance.

A low f-stop lens of 80-200 mm, or similar, should be adequate, along with a smaller wide-angle zoom (24-70 mm, or similar). Compact bridge cameras offer excellent zoom capabilities.

Don’t forget the necessary chargers and accessories. Flash photography is not recommended as it may startle the gorillas and provoke a reaction.

A torch or headlamp will be useful should you need to move around in the dark.

Carry all the gear you will need during the trek in a hiking backpack. Ideally, this should be waterproof, with various compartments for easy organization and accessibility. Choose a backpack that has a padded waist belt, to relieve strain on your shoulders and improve balance.

A walking stick or trekking poles will be useful when navigating the uneven terrain. These can be rented locally, so you don’t have to bring your own unless you have a personal preference.

Renting vs. Bringing Your Own Gear

The decision of whether to bring your own gear or rent it locally depends on various factors, including personal preference, logistics and budget.

The obvious downside of bringing your own gear is that you will have to carry it as you travel. On the plus side, you will be familiar with the gear and comfortable using it.

Not having to adjust to unfamiliar gear means your trek will be more enjoyable from the outset.  It also means you don’t need to go through the process of finding suitable gear to rent.

The advantages of renting gear locally are that it allows you to travel light without the hassle of transporting bulky luggage. It also supports the local economy and is more convenient, particularly if you can pre-book all the items you need beforehand.

FlashMc Tours is only too happy to assist you in finding a reputable gear rental outfitter.

Additional Tips

In addition to packing the right gear, the following tips can enhance your gorilla-trekking experience.

• Fitness – gorilla-trekking can be physically demanding, involving navigating often steep and uneven terrain over several hours. Before leaving home, engage in regular physical activity, preferably using the clothing and gear you plan to take with you, to build up stamina and strength.
• Permits and paperwork – FlashMc Tours will assist you in securing the necessary permits for your gorilla encounter. However, it is still important to ensure that your passport is current, that your travel arrangements are confirmed and all documents are in order before leaving for your adventure.

• Health precautions – Consult your travel health specialist or healthcare provider about any vaccinations or medications that may be necessary. Vaccines for yellow fever are compulsory when arriving from or via a country where it occurs. Vaccines for typhoid, rabies, tetanus and hepatitis A and B are recommended.
  
  Malaria is endemic in Uganda, so get advice regarding malaria prophylaxis. As certain drugs may not be available, it is recommended that you pack sufficient prescription medications to last the entire duration of your trip. If you are elderly or have a chronic health condition, have a medical checkup and adhere to related guidance from your healthcare practitioner.

As you can see, proper preparation will go a long way to ensuring that your gorilla-trekking safari in Uganda or Rwanda is both successful and enjoyable.

By ensuring you are adequately fit and following the recommendations listed above you can focus on enjoying the experience from start to finish.

Should you have any further questions or be looking for recommendations on optional safari or beach add-ons, the friendly team at FlasMc Tours is standing by to be of assistance.

Packing the right clothing is vital. Depending on the time of year that you do your gorilla-trek, you may encounter unpredictable weather – sweltering one minute and then raining the next – and the terrain is challenging at times, with dense vegetation and slippery surfaces.

It is important therefore to choose clothing that provides protection (from the weather and the environment), is comfortable and flexible, and is suitable for a variety of conditions.

Clothing Essentials

1. 2-3 long-sleeved shirts
2. 2 pairs of long pants
3. Sufficient socks and underwear
4. Waterproof jacket
5. Fleece or light down jacket

Footwear

1. Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and a well-lugged sole
2. Gaiters
3. Comfortable closed walking shoes
4. Sandals or flip-flops

Other Clothing and Gear

Toiletries

1. Hat with a wide brim or a lightweight beanie
2. Gloves (robust and waterproof or gardening gloves)
3. Sunscreen
4. Insect repellent
5. First-aid kit
6. Binoculars
7. Camera with a low f-stop lens (80-200 mm or similar) and a small wide-angle zoom (24-70 mm or similar)
8. Necessary chargers and accessories
9. Torch or headlamp
10. Hiking backpack (waterproof, with various compartments)
11. Walking stick or trekking poles (optional, available for rent)

First aid kit

1. Crepe bandage
2. Antihistamine ointment
3. Plasters
4. Antiseptic
5. Painkillers
6. Anti-inflammatories
7. Tweezers