Gorilla trekking is one of the most done safari activity done in both Uganda and Rwanda and its considered the major highlight to any safari in East Africa. There are only about 1000 mountain gorillas that are said to still living world-wide and Uganda is said to hosting the highest number of these apes almost a half of these apes live in Uganda the rest are shared by Rwanda and DRC. The activity is regarded as one of the most popular but expensive safari activity but yet the most done safari activity.
Before continuing to the forest in Uganda’s Bwindi national park or Rwanda’s volcanoes national park you are advised to dress modestly. Cotton clothing is the most comfy during the day. Uganda and Rwanda are warm in the plains but often cold in the hills and mountains so a rain jacket, heavy sweater and boots are the most essential and a must carry for a gorilla safari. It is best to have layers of clothing, as temperatures tend to change at any time. Gorilla Treks involves passing through difficult trails which are sometimes muddy so a study pair of walking shoes is high recommended
The following packing list is only meant as a guideline as you may have your own favorites on a gorilla safari:
1. 2 –3 pairs of light weight khakis/trousers probably that one which can get dry swiftly (if wearing on treks)
2. 1 pair of shorts
3. 1-2 long sleeved shirts/blouses
4. 3 short sleeved t-shirts
5. A waterproof and windproof jacket, if it rains during trekking you are very safe
6. 1 sweater or sweatshirt
7. 1 skirt (for women)
8. Swimsuit (and a plastic bag)
9. Strong waterproof walking boots (pants should be tucked into socks and boots while trekking)
- Pair of sports sandals like tevas
11. Hat-wide brim or with a shade for sun protection
12. Sleepwear
13. Underwear
14. Lightweight wool socks
15. Gloves these are good during gorilla trekking in case you catch on stinging plants during the trek
Miscellaneous
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with neck strap good during heavy sunshine
- Insect repellent with DEET to avoid mosquito bites
- Small day pack
- Flashlight it can get off during night
- Binoculars for easy viewing of animals and birds in a far distance
- Alarm clock to wake you-up- though our staff will wake you!
- Ear plugs this is better during gorilla/chimpanzee trekking as in the forest there are very many dwellers
- Extra batteries your battery can get off and miss taking photos, Volcanoes Safaris Lodges have facilities for recharging batteries
- Camera and extra lenses this is also very vital
- Film particularly fast film for the gorillas, you may fail to get a good film here
- Personal soaps;
- First Aid kit (anti-diarrhea medicine, needle, thread, safety pins aspirin, cold medication, antiseptic cream, lip balm, eye drops and personal medication)
- Small notebook in case you want to take notice