Packing for gorilla trekking does not require expensive specialist gear. Most of what you need, you probably already own. The key is protecting yourself from rain, nettles and mud while keeping your hands free for the trek. Here is what we recommend based on guiding hundreds of visitors through Bwindi.
What to Wear on Trek Day
- Long-sleeved shirt (light, moisture-wicking) — protects from nettles and insects
- Long trousers (not jeans) — zip-off hiking trousers are ideal
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support — the single most important item
- Thick socks (2 pairs) — one to wear, one spare in your daypack
- Rain jacket or waterproof poncho — it can rain at any time in the rainforest
- Gardening gloves — seriously, this is the insider tip. You will grab branches and vines to pull yourself up steep sections. Garden gloves protect your hands far better than hiking gloves
- Hat or cap — for rain and sun protection on open ridge sections
- Gaiters (optional) — keep mud and ants out of your boots
Tip
Wear dark, neutral colors (green, brown, black). Bright colors can startle wildlife. Avoid camouflage patterns — they are associated with military uniforms in Uganda and can cause unnecessary attention.
What to Carry in Your Daypack
- At least 2 liters of water — the trek can last 2–8 hours
- Packed lunch and snacks (provided by your lodge)
- Camera with fully charged battery — no flash photography allowed near gorillas
- Waterproof cover for your daypack — or a large bin bag as a liner
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Insect repellent with DEET
- Small first aid kit: plasters, painkillers, personal medication
- Tissues or wet wipes
- Cash for porter tip ($15–20) and ranger tip contribution
Photography Tips
- No flash photography — this is a strict rule to protect the gorillas
- A smartphone is absolutely fine — many of the best gorilla photos we have seen were taken on iPhones
- If using a camera: a lens between 24–200mm covers most situations
- The forest canopy is dark — use ISO 1600–3200 to compensate
- Bring a dry bag or zip-lock bag for your camera if it rains
- Fully charge your battery the night before — cold and humidity drain batteries faster
Info
You will be at a minimum distance of 7 meters from the gorillas. In practice, they sometimes come closer on their own. Keep your camera ready — encounters can happen suddenly after hours of trekking.
What NOT to Pack
- Perfume, cologne or strong-smelling products — gorillas have a strong sense of smell
- Bright or white clothing
- Heavy backpacks — hire a porter for $15 and let them carry everything except your camera and water
- Tripod — too bulky for dense forest. Use a tree branch or your porter's shoulder
- Drone — drones are prohibited in all national parks in Uganda
- Sandals or flip-flops — the terrain demands proper boots
Complete Packing Checklist
Essential (must have)
- Hiking boots with ankle support
- Long trousers
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Rain jacket
- Gardening gloves
- Daypack
- 2+ liters of water
- Camera (charged)
- Sunscreen + insect repellent
- Cash for tips
Recommended (nice to have)
- Gaiters
- Waterproof daypack cover
- Spare socks
- Hat or cap
- Walking stick (free at the park headquarters)
- Binoculars
- Zip-lock bags for electronics
Planning your gorilla trek? See our ready-made plans with all logistics handled.
View Gorilla Trekking Plans