Gorilla trekking either in Rwanda or Uganda in East Africa is the most popular tourist activity. When you plan a visit to an unscathed, dry terrain, you should always carry the right kind of essentials. But one of the most common mistakes people make is they dress inappropriately for trekking by wearing shorts, sandals and not carrying the right gear and essentials.
Packing the right gorilla gear is very important as you will not be able to buy it once you begin your trek, and even if you find it, it may be very expensive. Here’s a list of the packing items you should consider before going on a gorilla trek.
Long Safari Shirts
In parks with higher altitudes, the weather can change and get cold or even turn into humid, warm nights. So, the best to wear is a merino wool layer to keep you warm if necessary and not suffocate you if it becomes humid.
Long Safari Trousers
No matter where you go for a gorilla trek, the vegetation is likely to be very lush, thick and filled with bushes, plants and trees. Wearing long safari trousers is important to ensure that you do not get covered with bruises, rashes, or scratches from reactions of plants like nettles. But make sure you wear clothes that are of the colours that can go with the wild like camouflage, greens or browns to minimize the impact on the wildlife.
Safari Jacket
Your safari jacket should be light enough for you to wear or carry. This is important as in most parks where trekking takes place, rain can be expected even in the evening hours. You cannot expect the weather to be stable in such parks, so pack a jacket to keep you protected from different weather conditions.
A Warm Sweater
You may think that a sweater in Africa is the last thing you would want. But it is very important to carry as it can be worn in the chilly early mornings or cool evenings. In Volcanoes National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla Park, the temperature can even go to 10 degrees.
Hiking, Waterproof Shoes With Grip
All local park rangers guides wear gumboots. It helps keep you warm, giving you the necessary grip when you have to cross rivers or walk in the mud like sliding soil or uneven terrain. However, gumboots may not be very easy to pack, so waterproof gore-tex hiking boots are also an option. But remember that the boots have to be ankle-high to keep you dry when it rains, or when you step in wet mud.
Mosquito Repellent
Do not forget to carry an insect or mosquito repellent to your trek. Malaria is something that is too common in Africa, and the tsetse flies can give you horrible bites. Wearing full clothes can protect you from insects, but a repellent should be amongst the first on your list to safeguard you from foreign insects during your trek or stay in the park.
Waterproof Backpack
All your belongings can be stored inside the backpack that you carry on the trek. The bag must be waterproof so that all your belongings, including your essentials, first aid and camera equipment, stay dry.
Making a list for your gorilla trek is an important job you should be doing beforehand. The list also includes a first aid box, sturdy gardening gloves, sun blocker creams and most importantly, a flashlight and batteries. Ensure you are well prepared for your trek – because forgetting one crucial item can turn your best trek into the worst one. If you are confused or need any assistance, feel free to get in touch with us. Bushman Safari strives to bring various unforgettable experiences for your holidays.