What to Pack for Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking

Trekking to see mountain gorillas or chimpanzees is among the most memorable wildlife experiences on Earth. It is also physically demanding, weather-dependent, and conducted in some of the wettest, muddiest, steepest terrain you will ever walk through. Packing well won’t just make you more comfortable; it can decide whether you enjoy the hour with the animals or spend it distracted by wet socks and stinging nettles.

This guide covers what to bring for treks in places like Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), Bwindi and Mgahinga (Uganda), Virunga (DRC), and chimpanzee destinations such as Nyungwe, Kibale, and Budongo.

Understand What You’re Walking Into

Gorilla and chimp habitats are montane or tropical rainforest. Expect:

• Unpredictable rain, even in the “dry” seasons
• Mud, steep slopes, and slippery roots
• Dense vegetation, including stinging nettles and thorny vines
• Altitude: gorilla habitats sit roughly 2,200 to 3,500 meters, so mornings are cold and the air is thin
• Treks last anywhere from 1 to 8 hours, depending on where the animals moved overnight

Chimp treks are often less steep but can be hot and humid, with longer stretches of walking at a faster pace as chimps move quickly through the canopy. Gorilla treks are typically slower but more strenuous on hills.

Clothing: Layers and Earth Tones

Moisture-wicking base layer. A lightweight synthetic or merino shirt works well. Avoid cotton, which stays wet and chills you at altitude.

Long-sleeved shirt. Even in warm weather, long sleeves protect against nettles, insects, and scratches. Choose quick-drying fabric in muted greens, khaki, or brown. Avoid bright colours, white, and black. Blue and black can attract tsetse flies in some regions, and bright colors can unsettle animals.

Long trekking trousers. Lightweight, quick-drying, and ideally with a snug or adjustable ankle. Convertible zip-off trousers aren’t ideal, since you want full coverage the whole time.

Fleece or light insulated jacket. Mornings at the trailhead can be near freezing at higher elevations, and you’ll want warmth during the briefing and any waiting periods.

Waterproof rain jacket and rain trousers (or a poncho). A good shell is non-negotiable. Choose breathable fabric so you don’t soak through with sweat. A poncho that covers your daypack is a practical alternative.

Spare shirt and socks. Keep these in a waterproof bag in your vehicle for the ride back.

Footwear: The Most Important Decision

Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support. Choose boots that are already broken in. New boots on a gorilla trek are a recipe for blisters. Good tread matters on slick mud and steep descents.

Gaiters. These are among the most underrated items on the packing list. Tucked over your boots and trouser legs, they keep out mud, water, safari ants, and debris. If you only add one thing to your kit, make it gaiters. Many lodges rent them, but bringing your own ensures a proper fit.

Wool or synthetic hiking socks. Pack at least two pairs, and consider thin liner socks to reduce blisters. Tucking your trousers into your socks is also a smart defense against ants.

Gloves, Hats, and Eye Protection

Gardening or work gloves. Thick, sturdy gloves protect your hands from nettles, thorns, and rough branches as you grab vegetation for balance. Lightweight leather gloves with good grip are ideal. Avoid thin fabric gloves, which nettles can sting through.

Hat. A wide-brimmed or baseball-style cap shields you from sun and light rain. A warm beanie can be useful at high-altitude starts.

Sunglasses. Useful in clearings, though less necessary under forest canopy.

Neck gaiter or buff. Handy for warmth, dust, and keeping insects off your neck.

Your Daypack and What Goes Inside

Bring a small to mid-sized daypack (20 to 30 litres) that’s comfortable and water-resistant. Inside, pack:

• At least 2 litres of water. Treks can last many hours, and altitude plus exertion dehydrates you quickly. A hydration bladder or sturdy bottles both work. Reusable bottles are encouraged, since single-use plastic is restricted in some parks.
• High-energy snacks. Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, or biscuits. Your lodge will usually provide a packed lunch, which you’ll eat during or after the trek.
• Dry bags or zip-lock bags. These protect your camera, phone, and passport from rain.
• Rain cover for your pack. Many packs include one; if yours doesn’t, buy one.
• Small first-aid kit. Include blister plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relief, antihistamines for insect bites, and any personal medications.
• Hand sanitiser and tissues. Facilities are minimal on the trail. Pack out any used tissues, as you shouldn’t leave waste behind.
• Insect repellent. Apply it before you leave. Tsetse flies, mosquitoes, and biting insects are present in lowland and forest zones.
• Sunscreen and lip balm. UV exposure is stronger at altitude, even when it’s overcast.

Camera Gear and Photography Tips

Gorillas live in dim, shaded forest, so photography is challenging.

• Camera with good low-light performance. Flash photography is strictly prohibited near the animals, so turn it off completely.
• Zoom lens. A lens in the 70-300mm range is ideal. You’ll typically be several meters away, and you can’t approach closer.
• Extra batteries and memory cards. Cold temperatures drain batteries faster.
• Protective wrap. A dry bag or camera rain sleeve protects your gear from downpours.
• Skip the tripod. It’s cumbersome on narrow, muddy trails, and a monopod or simply bracing against a tree works better.

Don’t let photography eclipse the experience. You’ll have a limited time with the animals, often one hour for gorillas, so take your photos and then simply watch.

Walking Stick and Porters

Most parks provide walking sticks at the trailhead, usually free or for a small tip. Take one. It is invaluable on steep, slippery ground.

Strongly consider hiring a porter. For a modest fee, a local porter will carry your pack and offer a hand on tough sections. It also directly supports the surrounding communities, and many porters are former poachers or members of families who now benefit from conservation. It’s one of the best-value decisions you can make on the trip.

Documents and Practical Items

• Trekking permit. Gorilla and chimp permits are issued in advance, so keep the confirmation or printed permit accessible.
• Passport. You’ll often need it at the briefing for verification.
• Cash for tips. Small bills in local currency or US dollars are useful for guides, trackers, porters, and rangers.
• Vaccination records. Requirements vary by country, so check current entry rules before you travel.

What Not to Bring or Do

• Don’t bring flash photography. It can distress the animals.
• Don’t wear strong perfume or scented products. Strong smells can attract insects and disturb wildlife.
• Avoid food in view of the animals. You shouldn’t eat or drink near them, since this can transmit disease and alter behavior.
• Don’t trek when sick. Gorillas are highly susceptible to human respiratory illnesses, and rangers will turn away anyone with a cough, cold, or flu. Carry a face mask in case you need one, as masks are often required when near gorillas.

Fitness and Mindset

Packing is only part of preparation. Spend a few weeks beforehand walking hills, climbing stairs, or hiking in your boots. Altitude can leave even fit travellers breathless, so move at a steady pace and rest when needed. If you’re concerned about mobility, ask the park about trek assignment, since groups are often matched by fitness level, and about options such as sedan chairs carried by porters.

A Quick Packing Checklist

• Waterproof hiking boots and gaiters
• Long-sleeved shirt and long trousers in earth tones
• Fleece and waterproof jacket or poncho
• Sturdy gloves and a hat
• Daypack with rain cover and dry bags
• 2 litres of water and snacks
• Insect repellent, sunscreen, and a mini first-aid kit
• Camera with zoom lens, extra batteries, flash off
• Permit, passport, and cash for tips
• Face mask and hand sanitiser

Final Thoughts

The right gear turns a tough trek into an unforgettable one. Dress in layers, protect your hands, ankles, and skin, and keep your camera dry. Then, when you finally push through the foliage and find yourself face to face with a silverback or a troop of chimps overhead, you’ll be free to focus on what you came for: a rare, humbling encounter with our closest living relatives.