What to wear on a Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, Rwanda  and Congo

What to wear for gorilla trekking? What should I wear for gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R. Congo? Whether it is your first time going gorilla trekking or not, how you dress up matters a lot. Whatever you plan to wear for gorilla trekking, we recommend environmentally-friendly attire. Bright colors are never welcome for gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda.

Gorilla trekking is a life-changing primate adventure- providing nature lovers a golden opportunity to interact, explore in-depth about endangered mountain gorillas while in their natural habitat.

Only 1063 mountain gorillas are left on earth and they range within the Virunga Region- Virunga National Park, Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, then Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Whether you plan to visit gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda, you require the same gear.

What to wear for gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, or Congo

Long trousers

Regardless of your preferred gorilla trekking destination, the vegetation cover isn’t like the savanna safari parks. Besides, game viewing in the savanna parks isn’t the same as trekking to see mountain gorillas which is entirely an on-foot-walk adventure.

Gorillas live in high elevation range of 1500-2600m. The gorilla habitat is characterized by dense vegetation with range of floral species. The trek involves clearing the vegetation and to protect your legs from any kind of scratches, bruises; long trousers are more preferable.

Even on actual day of trekking gorillas, your park official/guide will remind you to tuck in your trousers into socks. This is to ensure that your legs are safe from biting insects. Most importantly, don’t come with very tight clothes- find something that allows you walk freely.

Long safari/sleeved shirts or t-shirts

Gorilla treks are conducted in high elevation areas and higher chances are, it can get cold in the course of the day or night. Besides, the treks usher trekkers into the dense vegetation with all kinds of plant life. Not to return with lots of bruises or scratches, we recommend that you carry or wear long sleeved safari shirt or t-shirt that also blends with natural environment.

Waterproof jacket/rain jacket

Rain gear is a must have for gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda. Gorilla treks are done in the tropical forest parks and the weather in these areas are generally unpredictable. Not to take unaware, it is advisable to carry a rain jacket or waterproof jacket or poncho.

Rains can occur at any time of the day but what is interesting is the fact that, it can rain and still you proceed with your trek. When choosing rain gear, try to find one that can easily dry and consider neutral colors.

Waterproof hiking/walking shoes with grip

Gorilla trek isn’t only a long day trek but a breathtaking adventure taking you via different habitats. And depending on how the day will be like, waterproof walking or hiking boots are essential to protect your legs from getting wet. They should also have sturdy grip as your adventure includes hiking through steep slopes.

Safari hat

It is not easy to determine the weather pattern in the course of the day. It can sunny or rainy but to protect your head, neck, face from sun heat, we recommend that you wear a hat.

Waterproof daypack

Waterproof daypack is another essential gear and should be a must to have for your gorilla trekking. It plays a valuable role particularly in safeguarding your important documents and perhaps your camera equipment.

Gardening gloves

Trekking mountain gorillas comes with its own issues and being a unique adventure that takes you via dense vegetation, at one point you will require to have support. Not to be hurt by thorny plants and perhaps, itchy plant species, you require pair of gardening gloves to have your hands protected.

Other important gear to carry for gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda include insect repellent, sunglasses, first aid/medical kit, pair of socks, sweater, good camera free from a flashlight, toiletries, sunscreen, and many more.

In summary, for any plans to visit Uganda, Rwanda, or Congo to see gorillas, ensure that you pack appropriately. With a list of items above, we believe that you will have a gorilla trekking adventure full of amazing memories.