The complete guide to packing for your gorilla trek to make sure you get the most out of this incredible experience.
A gorilla trek is a uniquely special adventure. Trekking through the African rainforest, you will witness the fascinating life of gorillas in their natural habitat. 🦍
However, to properly enjoy the experience, you need to be prepared. What you pack will make all the difference on your trek.
Protect yourself: In the wilderness, there are many risks and dangers, but with the right preparation, you can easily minimize these risks and they won’t ruin your experience.
Pack only what is necessary: Trekking through the jungle can be tiring, so make sure you’re not carrying excess weight and your pack won’t become a burden.
Enjoy your trek: Ultimately, all the preparations you make are to ensure you have a good time (which is the main aim of this article!) 😄
Here is a list of important items to pack for your next gorilla trek!
Proper clothing 👒
Your choice in clothing goes a long way to making your trek safer and more comfortable.
- Long trousers
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Warm, moisture-wicking clothes (if you expect cold weather)
- Hiking boots: sturdy, waterproof, and worn-in
- Thick socks
- Gaiters to protect your feet from insects (alternatively, tuck your trousers into your socks on the trail)
- Sturdy gardening gloves to protect your hands
- Hooded rain jacket or poncho
- Wide-brimmed hat for protection from the rain and sun
- UV-filtering sunglasses
Cover as much skin as possible and protect yourself from branches, thorns, insects, and anything else that could scratch you on the trail. Always aim to wear neutral-colored clothing (like light brown, green, or khaki) which is better at keeping insects away and will be less startling for local wildlife.
It may seem obvious, but it is also important to consider how comfortable your clothes are. Remember, you will be in these clothes for long periods of time, doing strenuous activity. Make sure your clothing doesn’t make the trek uncomfortable!
Take care of yourself ⛑️
Apart from clothing, there are several other practical things you will need to consider to protect yourself from the elements.
- Light pack: the lighter your pack, the more you will be able to carry in it!
- High SPF sunscreen
- Insect repellant
- Personal medications
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- First-aid kit
- Trekking poles for balance on uneven ground
- Personal documents: passport, vaccinations, insurance, emergency contact details
Enhance the experience 📸
When you have your trekking needs covered, then you can use the space you have left in your pack for optional extra gear that will allow you to get the most out of your trip.
- Phone and/or camera
- Chargers or batteries for your devices
- Binoculars
- Headlamp for better sight in darker areas
Ready for your gorilla trek? 🦍
It is important to do this right – you do not want anything to take away from an experience of a lifetime. Make a checklist for yourself and make sure you have everything you need.
We at Shadows Of Africa want you to have the best possible experience when you’re out on the trail with us. Reach out to us to book your gorilla trek and we will make sure you’re prepared before we head out together on our adventure!
Are you interested in an African safari?
Contact one of our safari experts and we will tailor-make a safari for you!
