What to Pack For Gorilla Safari in Uganda and Rwanda

Wondering what to pack for a gorilla safari in Uganda and Rwanda? Explore the different items, gear/equipment, and clothes to pack for a gorilla safari with Superfine Safaris Limited. Any successful gorilla trekking tour to Uganda, Rwanda, or Congo requires you to pack right. This can only be achieved when you start preparing for your gorilla safari early. As you plan, you must keep in mind which items to consider packing for gorilla trekking and those that are not essential.

Gorilla tours take you on a unique adventure altogether. Leave alone the normal game viewing tours, a gorilla safari introduces you to the jungle, and the entire adventure involves walking. To prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure, here are the essential items to consider packing;

Gorilla Trekking Packing List

Waterproof hiking/trekking boots/shoes

When you think about a gorilla safari, consider securing a waterproof hiking boot in advance. Sturdy and waterproof hiking boots should be part of the things you must have on any gorilla tour in Uganda or Rwanda. This is because gorilla treks are conducted in the tropical rainforest, and successfully navigating through such environments can’t be achieved with sneakers or saddles.

Strong hiking boots are required to enable you to walk through the muddy or sticky damp conditions in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Volcanoes National Park, or Mgahinga National Park. As you choose the hiking boots to wear, consider the type that fits you well and doesn’t disturb you while you concentrate on the search for mountain gorillas.

Long-sleeved shirts

On your packing list for a gorilla safari, long-sleeved shirts shouldn’t be missed. Gorilla trekking introduces you deep into the forest to search for mountain gorillas, and the conditions in most of the gorilla habitat are slightly different from those in savanna destinations. Long-sleeved shirts are needed because they can protect you from scratches from thorny plants or falling tree branches.

A pair of gardening gloves for a gorilla trek

Strong gardening gloves shouldn’t be left out of your packing list for gorilla safaris in Uganda or Rwanda. Gardening gloves are required to help protect your hands, especially when you are trekking and you happen to touch certain plants for support. They can save you from getting hurt, as some of the plants can be itchy or have thorns.

Long trousers suitable for gorilla treks

A pack of long trousers is required for your gorilla safari. The trousers are essential for any gorilla safari because they help protect your legs as you penetrate through the jungle in search of gorillas. Get comfortable and long trousers that you can even tuck in the socks to prevent crawling insects from entering your legs.

A pair of gaiters

A pack of gaiters should be part of your list of items to carry for gorilla safaris in Uganda or Rwanda. Gaiters are essential in protecting your legs from crawling bugs, dirt, and pebbles etc.

A pack of snacks and water

A gorilla safari offers a long gorilla trekking adventure. To be honest, gorilla treks are unpredictable. It can take visitors about 2 to 6 hours or less to find gorillas. Your fitness level is key when it comes to this adventure, and the best you can have is a pack of adequate snacks and water. These are required to boost your fitness levels to enable you to enjoy a round gorilla trekking adventure.

A camera and additional batteries for gorilla photography

Photography should be a must-do when on a gorilla safari or any tour. A good camera and extra batteries are essential tools you should consider carrying for your gorilla trekking tours. When you find gorillas, you have an hour to spend with these apes, and it is when you can utilize your camera.

A waterproof daypack is a must.

Don’t leave out a pack of a daypack. A waterproof daypack should be a must-have. A daypack is required for you to pack some items, including snacks, insect repellent, travel documents, bottled drinking water, and more.

A pair of binoculars

Your packing list should also include binoculars. All gorilla safari destinations are endowed with birds and other species for you to spot. For easier viewing, you need a pair of binoculars.

Gorilla permits (only valid)

When it comes to gorilla safaris, gorilla permits shouldn’t be left out. A gorilla permit in Uganda can be booked at USD 800, while the Rwanda gorilla permits are open for reservation at USD 1500 per visitor. Visitors on a gorilla safari can secure a permit through the local tour operator or company on the ground. The permits or gorilla tour should be booked in advance to avoid being left out, considering the high demand.

Long pants

Visitors should also consider packing long pants. These should be of fast-drying material and should offer flexibility when trekking or hiking. The long pants are essential in protecting your legs from the mud, thorny vegetation, and insects.

A safari hat

Don’t forget to carry a safari hat on your gorilla safari in Uganda or Rwanda. Safari hats are essential as they offer protection from the hot sunshine. Consider having a wide-brimmed hat that can cover you properly.

Sunglasses to pack

A pack of sunglasses is recommended to protect you from the hot sun rays. Prepare early and find sunglasses that fit you or that you wear comfortably.

First aid kit for a gorilla trek

A first aid kit is essential when you are planning your gorilla safari. A pack of first aid kits is needed to keep you prepared for any emergencies. The medical kit or first aid kit often comes with blister treatments, pain relievers, bandages, and other items.

A rain jacket

Gorilla safaris are conducted in destinations that experience rain at any time. A pack of waterproof rain jackets is essential for you to get protected from heavy rains.

Where to go for a gorilla safari

Gorilla safaris in Uganda are carried out in only 2 places, that is, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga. In Rwanda, expect to visit Volcanoes National Park in the Northern Province. While in Congo, you can explore Virunga National Park for mountain gorillas and then Kahuzi-Biega National Park for Eastern lowland gorillas. Gorilla safaris in East Africa offer mainly mountain gorilla and Eastern lowland gorilla encounters.