What to Wear and Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda

January 6, 2021

Essential Attire and Gear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking occurs in elevated mountainous terrain characterized by unpredictable weather, with heavy rains that can occur at any time, resulting in slippery and muddy conditions. Therefore, careful consideration of clothing and necessary items for the trek is paramount. The primary essentials include a camera, extra memory cards, and additional batteries. Carrying a zip lock bag is advisable to protect equipment from rain.

Your accommodation provider is likely to arrange a packed lunch for your trek. It’s prudent to also bring along easily accessible snacks for sustenance while walking. Adequate hydration is essential, necessitating a minimum of two liters of water during the trek.

A bag, preferably waterproof, is indispensable for keeping belongings organized and protected. Wearing clothing with pockets facilitates easy access to essentials, especially if you opt to hire a porter.

Due to the higher altitudes where gorillas reside, malaria is not a concern during trekking, as mosquitoes are scarce in these areas or largely absent near gorilla lodges. However, it’s advisable to continue taking malaria medication as a precaution, given the malarial risk in other regions of Uganda and Rwanda. Additionally, insect repellent is recommended, as gorillas are often accompanied by swarms of flies

Appropriate Attire for Gorilla Trekking: What to Wear

When venturing into the rainforest environment, it’s advisable to come prepared with appropriate attire. This includes a breathable rain shell and a hat, along with dressing in layers to accommodate the fluctuating weather conditions. Mornings may be cool, with temperatures possibly dropping to the low 40s, while daytime temperatures typically range between 60 and 80 degrees.

Given the rugged terrain, hiking boots are essential for ankle protection. Alternatively, running shoes with excellent grip are acceptable, particularly considering the muddy and wet conditions. For enhanced traction and stability, trackers often opt for knee-high rubber boots.

To safeguard against thorns and stinging nettles, wearing pants and long sleeves is recommended. Additionally, wearing long socks to tuck pant legs into can prevent fire ants from crawling up and biting, especially when traversing through bushes and forest trails. Rangers typically clear paths through dense vegetation using machetes.

Gardening gloves, specifically those with rubber palms and breathable backs, are also essential. These gloves help prevent blisters from walking sticks and reduce concerns about encountering stinging nettles and thorns.

What to Wear and Bring on a Gorilla Trek in Brief.

Footwear: Proper footwear is crucial for gorilla trekking. Invest in a high-quality pair of sturdy hiking boots. While they may be pricey, the cost pales in comparison to potential ankle injuries. Avoid the temptation of cheap sneakers, especially for traversing rough terrain over long distances.

Hand Protection: Given the likelihood of grasping trees, branches, and vines during the trek, your hands may endure scratches and abrasions if not properly protected. Carrying a durable pair of gardening gloves will prove invaluable in safeguarding your hands.

Light Rain Protection: Bwindi and Virunga National Parks, being tropical rainforests, experience frequent rainfall throughout the year. It’s wise to pack a compact, lightweight poncho or rain jacket that can easily fit into your bag. This ensures you’re prepared for sudden downpours during your trek.

Energy Boosters: While trekking to visit the mountain gorillas isn’t insurmountable, it can be physically demanding. Bringing along energy snacks such as nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, or power bars is highly recommended to help sustain your stamina throughout the challenging journey.

Hydration: Refrain from purchasing plastic water bottles during your stay in Uganda or Rwanda, as they pose significant harm to the environment. Instead, opt for a reusable canteen equipped with a built-in purifying filter or carry a pack of filtration tablets. Given the need to stay hydrated during the trek, ensuring access to clean water is essential.

Long Clothing: During the jungle trek, it’s advisable to cover up with long pants and shirts to minimize skin exposure. Remember to tuck your trousers into your socks for added protection against insects and foliage.

What not to Bring on a Trek.

Walking Stick Guidance: While a walking stick is necessary for the trek, it’s best not to bring your own stick (whether from home or purchased locally). There will be a selection of walking sticks available to borrow for the day. Bringing your own stick can be cumbersome to manage during the trek. Near the gorillas, porters and trackers will collect all walking sticks as gorillas may react aggressively to them. After your time with the gorillas, trackers will attempt to return the sticks, but there’s a possibility they may be left behind if the gorillas move.

Avoid bringing sticks resembling tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks near the gorillas, as they may provoke aggressive behavior.