Gorilla Trekking Packing List: What to Wear & Bring

Proper preparation makes the difference between a comfortable gorilla trek and a miserable one. The mountain forests of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park are dense, steep, and unpredictable — rain can arrive without warning, trails disappear into thick undergrowth, and altitudes reach above 2,500 meters. Here’s exactly what to pack.

Clothing: What to Wear

Layering is essential. Mornings start cool at altitude, but you’ll warm up quickly during the hike. Expect to get muddy, scratched by branches, and possibly rained on.

• Long-sleeved shirt: Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric in a neutral color (khaki, olive, brown). Protects against nettles, thorns, and insects.
• Long pants: Durable hiking pants or cargo trousers. Tuck them into your socks to keep ants and insects out. Avoid jeans — they get heavy when wet and take hours to dry.
• Waterproof jacket: Non-negotiable. A lightweight rain shell that packs down small is ideal. Rain is possible any day of the year in the mountain forests.
• Sturdy hiking boots: Waterproof, ankle-high boots with good tread. The terrain is steep, muddy, and slippery. Break them in before your trip — blisters on trek day are no fun.
• Thick socks: Wool or synthetic hiking socks. Bring a spare pair in a waterproof bag.
• Gardening gloves: This is the insider tip most packing lists miss. Thick gardening gloves protect your hands when grabbing branches, vines, and stinging nettles for balance on steep sections.
• Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap: Sun protection on open ridges and keeps rain off your face in the forest.
• Light fleece or warm layer: For the cool morning start and higher altitudes.

What NOT to Wear

• Bright colors: Stick to earth tones. Brightly colored clothing can disturb the gorillas.
• Perfume or cologne: Strong scents may agitate the gorillas. Use unscented products.
• Sandals or lightweight sneakers: The terrain demands proper boots.

Camera Gear

Your one hour with the gorillas will produce memories you’ll treasure forever — make sure your camera is up to the task.

• DSLR or mirrorless camera: A camera with good low-light performance is critical. The forest canopy blocks most sunlight, so you’ll be shooting at high ISO.
• Fast lens: A 24-70mm f/2.8 or 70-200mm f/2.8 is ideal. You’ll often be close to the gorillas (within 7 meters), so you don’t need extreme telephoto reach.
• No flash: Flash photography is strictly prohibited. It can frighten and stress the gorillas.
• Extra batteries: Cold temperatures at altitude drain batteries faster. Carry at least two spares.
• Waterproof camera bag or rain cover: Protect your gear from rain and mud.
• Smartphone: Modern phones take excellent gorilla photos. Keep it in a waterproof pouch.

Essential Items

• Insect repellent: DEET-based repellent for mosquitoes. Apply it to clothing rather than skin when near the gorillas.
• Sunscreen: SPF 30+ even on cloudy days — UV is strong at altitude.
• Reusable water bottle: At least 2 liters. Hydration is critical during a strenuous hike at altitude.
• Energy snacks: Trail mix, energy bars, fruit. The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 6+ hours.
• Daypack: A 20-30 liter waterproof daypack for your gear. Keep it light — a porter can carry a larger bag for you.
• Walking stick: Available for rent at the park entrance (usually $5-10). Highly recommended for balance on steep, slippery trails.
• Cash (USD): For porter tips ($10-20), walking stick rental, and local purchases.

Documents and Paperwork

• Passport: Required at park check-in. Carry the original, not a copy.
• Gorilla permit confirmation: Print a copy and save a digital backup on your phone.
• Visa: Ensure your visa covers the dates of your trek. East African tourist visas are available on arrival or online in advance.
• Travel insurance documents: Comprehensive travel insurance covering emergency evacuation is strongly recommended. Trekking happens in remote areas far from hospitals.

Physical Preparation

Gorilla trekking is physically demanding. Treks range from 1 hour to 6+ hours of hiking through dense jungle at altitudes between 2,200 and 3,400 meters. The terrain includes steep hills, thick mud, tangled roots, and stinging nettles.

• Start a cardio fitness program at least 6-8 weeks before your trip
• Practice hiking on hilly terrain with a loaded daypack
• Build leg strength with squats, lunges, and stair climbing
• If you have knee or joint issues, consider trekking poles and discuss options with your guide — some gorilla families require shorter, easier hikes

Your guide and porters are there to help. There is no shame in hiring a porter — they know the terrain, they’ll carry your bag, and they’ll literally push you up the steepest sections if needed.

Ready to Trek?

With the right gear and preparation, gorilla trekking is an accessible adventure for travelers of all fitness levels. Browse our gorilla trekking tours to find the perfect itinerary, or contact Nature Nest Safaris for a free, personalized quote.