When it comes to mountain gorilla adventures, visitors are left asking several questions most of which include what should I carry for gorilla trekking? Which clothes should I put on? If you are planning to go for gorilla trekking, you will need to pack appropriate gear that is comfortable with you and allows you have the most enjoyable and exciting adventure. That said, we recommend you to include the following in your packing list;
Waterproof hiking boots
Mountain gorilla adventures in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Volcanoes National Park and Virunga National Park entirely involves visitors hiking through the thick forests and steep slopes to look out for a group of rare mountain gorillas. Given the nature of the gorilla habitat, you are encouraged to come with lightweight and waterproof hiking boots that offer support to your ankle as you hike.
Rain jacket/poncho
If you are planning to embark on gorilla trekking, a rain jacket or poncho should be a must to include in your packing list. Mountain gorillas live mainly in thick tropical rainforests and rainfall is experienced at anytime of day and this calls for adequate preparation. However, majority of visitors tend to travel for this lifetime experience during the dry season which is mainly in the month of June to September and from December to February. But this doesn’t mean that there is no gorilla trekking during the wet season. What may seem to be the best time for you may not be the best time to the other person. The wet season usually starts from March, April, May and October to November. A poncho or rain jacket is very crucial when it comes to gorilla trekking as it helps safeguard you from rain.
Gardening gloves
Gardening gloves are very critical when it comes to this adventure as they help safeguard your hands especially when you hold on some itching plant, tree species for support that may cause harm to your body . Most of the gorilla habitat is slippery when it rains and in case you fall down, you will certainly need to get support from the nearest plant species.
Long sleeved shirts, blouse or T-shirt, socks
Long sleeved shirts or T-shirts are vital for gorilla tracking and when choosing one for your actual trek, make sure that they are matching with nature. They should be long to protect your hands and legs from biting insects and the falling tree branches. You will also need long socks, cotton type or wool to provide protection to your feet.
Energy giving snacks and bottled water
A gorilla trek usually lasts from half to 8 hours and this requires some physical wellness in you. To boost your energy, you will need to carry with you some energy giving snacks and enough water to help you complete your adventure. Where possible, you can even go with your packed lunch and plenty of water as the time is not known when you will come back to the lodge. You can purchase some of the energy giving snacks in any of Uganda, Rwanda or DR Congo’s supermarkets prior embarking on your actual trek.
Cameras and additional batteries
The most exciting and memorable part of the safari is photo taking. Imagine striking your eyes with a huge silverback gorilla with its group members and you have no camera and you become a spectator as the rest are busy maximizing their one hour of face to face encounter! Don’t be part of this scenario and make sure that you have packed a camera plus additional batteries in case one runs short of power. Your camera shouldn’t have a flashlight and if it does, make sure that you have turned it off otherwise the flashlight can irritate them and your experience won’t be enjoyable as you expected.
Hat and sunglasses
In case it is hot, ensure that you have carried a hat with you to safeguard your head from the scorching sunshine. You may also need sunglasses.
Binoculars
Gorilla trekking isn’t only looking for gorillas but offers a chance for you to spot out some of the forest bird species. In Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, there are about 350 bird species some of which can be sighted during gorilla trekking.
Other important items for you to include in your packing list include citronella soap, hand wipes, malaria pills, toiletries, first aid kit and many more.