Gorilla Trekking Packing List: Ultimate Guide 2025/6

Gorilla Trekking Packing List: Gorilla trekking is one of the most thrilling wildlife experiences on the planet. Hiking through the dense, misty rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, or Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo to spend one magical hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family is a bucket-list adventure for thousands of travelers every year.

However, the trek is physically demanding and takes place in a high-altitude, equatorial rainforest environment where conditions can change dramatically within minutes.

Rain, mud, stinging nettles, steep slopes, and temperatures that swing from chilly mornings to hot midday sun are all part of the experience. That’s why having the right gorilla trekking packing list is absolutely crucial.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about what to pack for gorilla trekking — from gorilla trekking essentials and the best boots for gorilla trekking to what NOT to bring and special tips for photographers, seniors, and different seasons.

Let’s make sure you’re 100% prepared.

Below is a complete guide to gorilla trekking packing list;

1. Essential Clothing for Gorilla Trekking

What you wear can make or break your trek. The forest is full of thorns, ants, nettles, and sudden rain showers, so protection and comfort are non-negotiable.

Long-Sleeved Shirts

Always choose lightweight, breathable, long-sleeved shirts made of quick-dry synthetic or merino wool fabric. They protect your arms from stinging nettles, thorns, insects, and sunburn. Earth-tone colors (khaki, olive, dark green, brown) are mandatory — bright colors can disturb the gorillas.

Lightweight Hiking Pants

Avoid shorts. Long, lightweight, quick-dry hiking pants with stretch are ideal. Convertible zip-off pants work well too. Look for rip-resistant fabric because you’ll be pushing through dense vegetation.

Waterproof Jacket or Poncho

Even in the dry season (June–September & December–February), rain can appear without warning. A lightweight, breathable Gore-Tex rain jacket or a simple poncho that covers you and your daypack is essential.

Warm Layer (Fleece or Light Down Jacket)

Mornings at 2,000–2,500 m (6,500–8,200 ft) altitude are cold — often 8–12°C (46–54°F). A packable fleece or thin synthetic insulated jacket will keep you comfortable at the briefing and during the first hour of hiking.

Gardening Gloves

This is one of the most recommended gorilla trekking essentials. Thick gardening gloves protect your hands when you grab vegetation for balance on steep, slippery slopes. Many travelers regret not bringing them.

Waterproof Hiking Boots – The Best Boots for Gorilla Trekking

Your footwear is arguably the most important item. Choose mid- or high-cut waterproof hiking boots with aggressive lugs and excellent ankle support. Popular choices among repeat trekkers:

• Salomon Quest 4 GTX
• Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof
• Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
• Break them in before you arrive — blisters can ruin your once-in-a-lifetime trek.

Thick Hiking Socks

Bring at least 2–3 pairs of merino wool or synthetic thick hiking socks. They cushion your feet, wick moisture, and reduce the chance of blisters and insect bites around the ankle.

Hat & Buff/Neck Gaiter

A wide-brim hat or baseball cap for sun and rain protection, plus a buff for your neck and face (doubles as a mask if needed).

2. Essential Gear & Equipment for Gorilla Trekking

Waterproof Daypack (20–30 L)

You’ll carry your own gear during the trek. A fully waterproof roll-top dry bag or a pack with a built-in rain cover is highly recommended.

Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration Bladder (minimum 2–3 liters)

You can trek for 2–8 hours. Dehydration is a real risk. Most lodges provide purified water to refill.

High-Energy Snacks

Porter-carried lunches are provided, but bring extra granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate for quick energy on steep sections.

Trekking Poles / Walking Stick

Poles significantly reduce strain on knees during descents. You can rent wooden walking sticks at park headquarters for $5–10, but collapsible trekking poles are lighter and more adjustable.

Strong Insect Repellent (30–50% DEET or Picaridin)

Safari ants and mosquitoes are present year-round.

High SPF Sunscreen & Lip Balm with SPF

The equatorial sun is intense, especially when you break out of the forest canopy.

Binoculars (compact 8×25 or 10×25)

Great for viewing distant gorillas before you get close and for birdwatching.

Camera + Rain Cover + Extra Batteries & Memory Cards

One hour with the gorillas goes fast. Photography is allowed (no flash). A 70–200 mm or 100–400 mm lens is perfect. Bring plenty of memory and spare batteries — there’s no charging in the forest.

3. Important Documents & Permits

• Gorilla trekking permit (book 6–24 months in advance)
• Passport with at least 6 months validity + visa (Uganda/Rwanda)
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory for entry)
• Printed travel insurance policy (with emergency evacuation coverage — highly recommended)
• Cash in small USD bills for porter tips and park walking sticks

4. Health & Safety Essentials

Personal First-Aid Kit

Include:

• Blister plasters (Compeed)
• Painkillers (ibuprofen/paracetamol)
• Antihistamines
• Antiseptic wipes
• Any personal prescription medication (bring extra)

Hand Sanitizer & Wet Wipes

No bathrooms in the forest.

Face Mask (optional but appreciated)

Helps prevent transmitting human colds to gorillas.

Water Purification Tablets or SteriPEN (backup)

Rehydration Salts

Useful after long, sweaty treks.

5. Optional But Highly Recommended Items

• Gaiters (the single best defense against ants and mud)
• Lightweight quick-dry towel
• Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh)
• Ziplock bags or dry sacks for electronics
• Sunglasses
• Headlamp (if your flight arrives late or you stay at basic lodging)
• Earplugs (for light sleepers — lodge generators can be noisy)

6. What NOT to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

• Bright-colored clothing (red, yellow, white, neon) — gorillas may react negatively
• Flip-flops or open sandals for the trek (only for around the lodge)
• Heavy luggage or large backpacks (porters have a 15 kg weight limit on some transfers)
• Noisy plastic bags (crinkling scares gorillas)
• Strong perfume, cologne, or scented lotion
• Drones (strictly prohibited in all national parks)
• Jewelry or anything that dangles

7. Special Packing Tips from Experienced Trekkers

• Layer, layer, layer — you’ll peel off clothes as the day warms up.
• Waterproof EVERYTHING — pack clothes in dry bags inside your daypack.
• Pack light — you only need one set of trekking clothes per day (laundry is available at most lodges).
• Bring small USD bills ($1, $5, $10) — essential for porter and ranger tips ($10–20 per porter is customary).
• Use gaiters + pants tucked into socks = almost 100% ant protection.

8. Should You Hire a Porter? (Yes — Here’s Why)

Hiring a porter costs only $15–$20 per day (paid directly in cash) and is one of the best decisions you’ll make. Porters carry your daypack, help you on steep sections, point out wildlife, and the money directly supports local communities. Even fit trekkers hire porters — it makes the experience much more enjoyable.

9. Packing for Dry Season vs Rainy Season

Dry Season (June–September & December–February)

• Lighter clothing layers
• Extra water (3 liters)
• Strong sunscreen and hat
• Less bulky rain gear (a poncho is often enough)

Rainy Season (March–May & October–November)

• Heavy-duty waterproof jacket and pants
• Extra pairs of socks
• Gaiters become essential
• Plastic bags or dry sacks for all gear

10. Gorilla Trekking Packing List for Photographers

• DSLR/mirrorless + 70–200 mm or 100–400 mm lens
• Rain cover or plastic bag setup
• Extra batteries & memory cards (you’ll shoot hundreds of photos)
• Lens cleaning cloth & blower
• Bean bag or small tripod (sometimes allowed for support)
• GoPro for video of the approach hike

11. Packing Tips for Elderly or Less Fit Travelers

Gorilla trekking is possible at any age (people in their 70s and 80s do it every year), but preparation matters:

• Hire a porter (non-negotiable)
• Consider a walking stick or trekking poles
• Knee braces or support sleeves
• Extra high-energy snacks
• Request an “easier” gorilla family when booking (some groups live closer to the trailhead)

12. FAQ about gorilla trekking packing list

What is the best clothing for gorilla trekking?

Long-sleeved shirt, lightweight hiking pants, waterproof jacket, gardening gloves, and proper hiking boots.

Do I need gloves for gorilla trekking?

Yes — thick gardening gloves protect your hands from thorns and nettles.

Can I wear shorts for gorilla trekking?

No. Long pants are mandatory for protection.

How much water should I bring gorilla trekking?

Minimum 2–3 liters per person.

Do I need hiking boots for gorilla trekking?

Yes — waterproof, ankle-supporting boots are essential.

Can I hire a porter on the day?

Yes — porters wait at park headquarters every morning ($15–$20 USD).

What is the weight limit for the daypack?

There’s no strict limit, but keep it under 10 kg if carrying yourself.

Are drones allowed?

No — drones are banned in Bwindi, Mgahinga, Volcanoes, and Virunga parks.

With this complete gorilla trekking packing list, you’ll be perfectly prepared for an unforgettable adventure in the jungles of Uganda or Rwanda. Safe travels, and enjoy every second with the gentle giants of the forest!