Gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda takes place in mountainous tropical forests. Due to the nature of terrain, hiking on foot in search of gorillas can be challenging which requires preparation in regard to what to wear and carry. You might consider what to pack for gorilla tracking according to the time of the year you intend to visit. The dry season occurs from June to September and December to February. During this period expect hot sunshine and gorilla treks can cover longer distances than usual therefore you must wear light-weight breathable clothing. The longer rainy season on the other hand from March to May and the shorter one from October to November. The forest is dripping and wet which causes muddy and slippery trails thus requiring putting on gaiters and warm clothing for gorilla trekking. Most importantly, packing the right clothing and having the right gears will save and protect your body against the coldness, stinging nettles, mosquitoes, safari ants thereby enjoy your tracking gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda experience with no regrets whatsoever.
Also, note that wearing of face masks is now mandatory for your tracking gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda. Because gorillas are vulnerable to human infectious diseases such as common cold and covid-19.
Clothing on Your Tracking Gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda
In regard to clothing, bring light-weight, quick drying and dress in colors that blend with the forests such as green, greys, beige, blue, brown among others. Those intending to plan for fly-in Uganda Rwanda gorilla safaris should know that most charter aircrafts limit weight of luggage to 20 kgs. Though you can negotiate with your crew for the extra luggage.
Long socks and hiking boots. The hiking boots that support the ankle and are sufficiently strong with traction on the ground are highly recommended. To feel comfortable on the trails and as the gorilla trek grows longer and more difficult, wear cotton socks.
Long pants. Long pants are a necessity for anyone planning to visit gorillas because they will shield your legs from stinging nettles and moisture. To prevent safari ants and other insects from penetrating you, wear long socks and tuck them into your long pants.
T-Shirts with long sleeved shirts. Similar to long pants, long sleeved shirts are a must-have for your gorilla trekking packing list. They help to protect your arms against mosquitoes and other biting insects. You won’t have any problems with itchy arms after your trek if you wear long sleeve shirts.
Fleece / warm sweater. Temperatures in Bwindi Forest can reach 11 degrees Celsius in Ruhija sector the coldest part of the park.
Gardening gloves. Your hands will be protected by gloves, especially during the rainy season. Though not a must-have item, gloves are useful for gorilla tracking mostly in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest where you’ll be holding unto plants for support and sometimes crawl on ground.
A raincoat. Rainfall can occur anytime of the day in the Bwindi Forest or Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, so you must bring a rain jacket with you on the trek. It should ideally be lightweight and long enough to cover your entire upper body from precipitation and dew.
A sun hat. As you move through the forest canopy, you run the risk of bumping into various things, like spider webs and occasionally thorny plants, can pull your hair. Therefore, any type of hat will stop that.
Scarf. When you need to wipe your face, a scarf can be useful because it eliminates the need to dig through your pockets or bag for a handkerchief.
GEARS AND TOILETRIES TO PACK FOR YOUR TRACKING GORILLAS IN UGANDA & RWANDA
Walking stick. Locally, walking sticks are available at gorilla centers. They won’t pierce the ground because they aren’t as pointed and sharp as modern ones. Anyone who needs assistance while hiking must carry a stick or hire a porter.
Insect repellent and malaria prevention drugs. In Bwindi, there are mosquitoes, and you will spend some time in their presence while hiking in search of gorillas. Therefore, when wearing T-shirts, be sure to carry insect repellent and smear exposed body parts like your hands and arms.
Daypack. Your most crucial items should be kept in a daypack so that you can easily access them. It also facilitates keeping your drinking water, packed lunch, and anything else you need to eat to stay energized during the trek also helps on your tracking Gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda.
Mini first aid kit
Towel
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Camera and extra batteries
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