Knowing what gear to pack when heading off on a gorilla trekking experience in Africa can become a bit overwhelming.
Fortunately, Go Gorilla Trekking are here to help! Below we’ve listed some important gear that you shouldn’t go without:
Hiking shoes/boots:
It’s important to carry waterproof hiking boots as gorilla trekking is done in forests that follow waterlogged trails. Strong jungle boots that cover up to the ankle are highly recommended, especially during the rainy season.
Garden or hiking gloves:
It’s advisable to wear garden or hiking gloves to avoid getting scratched or cut by the thorny vegetation. Insects like tsetse flies and mosquitoes can also target unprotected hands.
Rain jackets:
In destinations where gorilla watching is done including the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park where it can rain at any given time. This is the same with the Virunga ranges! These areas are known to receives relief rainfall. With this in mind, always have a rain jacket on hand to avoid getting wet.
Hat and sunglasses:
Protection against the sun is extremely important. Wearing a hat and sunglasses will help protect you from the direct sun as well as preventing any bits of vegetation or insects from hitting the face and eyes.
Camera and extra batteries:
Having your camera is a definite must! But remember to bring a spare battery pack (and an extra memory card if possible) in preparation for all the photos you’ll be taking while trekking!
Packed lunch, snacks and drinks:
Do note that gorilla trekking is a strenuous exercise which requires some level of fitness as it involves navigating through rivers, slippery trails, hills and slopes. It is advisable, therefore, to carry energy snacks and drinks to give you that extra strength so that you can to endure 4-6 hours of trekking while searching for the rare gorillas.
Long-sleeved shirts, blouses, and pants:
Wearing long-sleeved clothing will protect you from scratches, bites and cuts from thorny vegetation and insects.
First Aid Kit:
A First Aid Kit should including items such as rehydration sachets, anti-diarrhea medicine, aspirin, cold medication, antiseptic cream, band-aids, motion sickness pills, lip balm, eye drops and personal medication.
Insect repellent:
Most of the world’s forests are home to dangerous insects such as mosquitoes and tsetse flies. To prevent insect bites while on your trek, apply insect repellent cream or spray.
Having packed all the right gear, you are now well on your way to having the experience of a lifetime while gorilla trekking through the forests of Africa.