What to Pack for a Gorilla Trek
What to pack for a gorilla trek matters more than most people expect. Treks in Bwindi and the Virungas cross steep, muddy slopes through nettles and thorny undergrowth, at altitudes where mornings are cold and rain can arrive suddenly. The right clothes make the difference between a hard slog and an easy one.
Clothes
- Long trousers in a tough, quick-drying fabric. Tuck them into your socks against ants.
- A long-sleeved shirt, because stinging nettles are everywhere.
- A light fleece or warm layer for the cold start.
- A waterproof jacket, whatever the season.
- Muted colours such as green, khaki and brown. Avoid bright colours.
Boots and gaiters
Waterproof walking boots with good grip are the most important item. Break them in before you travel. Gaiters keep mud, water and ants out of your boots and protect your lower legs.
Gear for the day
- Gardening gloves for grabbing branches and vines on steep slopes.
- A small daypack with a rain cover.
- At least two litres of water, and a packed lunch from your lodge.
- Insect repellent, sun cream and a hat.
- A face mask, which you'll be asked to wear near the gorillas.
- Your passport, as rangers may check it against your permit.
Walking sticks are handed out at the start of the trek.
Cameras
The forest is dark and flash is not allowed, so a camera that handles low light well is more useful than a long lens. A mid-range zoom covers most situations at the recommended distance of about seven metres. Bring spare batteries and memory cards, and a dry bag in case of rain.
What to leave behind
Leave large bags, tripods and drones at the lodge. If you have a cold or any infectious illness, tell your guide before the trek: gorillas are vulnerable to human diseases, and rangers may not let you join.
Hire a porter
Porters wait at every trailhead and can be hired for a set fee. They carry your bag, help on the steepest sections and earn an important income for families living around the parks. It is one of the best decisions you can make on the day.
Planning your first trek? Read how a gorilla trek works, or see our 3-day Rwanda gorilla trek.
Packing list at a glance
- Waterproof walking boots, broken in
- Gaiters and thick socks
- Long trousers and a long-sleeved shirt
- Fleece and waterproof jacket
- Gardening gloves
- Small daypack with rain cover
- Two litres of water and snacks
- Face mask, insect repellent and sun cream
- Passport and permit details
Luggage on light aircraft
If your trip includes scheduled flights to Kihihi or Kisoro, luggage is usually limited to about 15 kg per person in soft bags. Pack light, and we can store extra luggage in Entebbe or Kigali until you return.
Packing for the rest of your safari
Most gorilla trips include time in savannah parks too, where days are warmer. Pack light layers in neutral colours, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and binoculars. Evenings at altitude can be cool, so a warm layer earns its place. Most lodges offer laundry, which means you can pack less than you think.
