Packing List For Gorilla Trekking

Packing List For Gorilla Trekking

Packing List For Gorilla Trekking ; Gorilla trekking is among the most unique experiences you can have on an african safari. when planning your african safari, there are some destinations that are eye catching and raw such as Bwindi impenetrable national park in Uganda, volcanoes national park in Rwanda and Virunga national park in democratic republic of Congo.

Contrary to the open savannahs of some national parks like Masai mara and Murchison falls, the gorilla trekking safari destinations offer a different kind of an african safari one that drops you deep into the mystical rainforests blending with life.

The national parks of Bwindi impenetrable national park, Mgahinga forest national park, volcanoes national park and Virunga national parks are homes to the endangered mountain gorillas, the UNESCO World Heritage Site offer a once in a life time adventure.

The national parks have dramatic terrain, thick vegetations and uncertain tropical weather and a high altitude climate which requires a special approach to packing. This is not just a normal wildlife tour but a jungle and to fully enjoy the african safari experience, preparation is important.

Reasons why packing is important?

• Rainy and muddy condition. Even though its in the dry season, the national parks have rainforest climate which means that rain can come anytime and the terrain can be slippery. Therefore, tourists need the right gears that can manage moisture and offer tension.
• Cooler temperatures at the high altitude; contrary to the hot savannah plains with many african safari destinations, the gorilla habitats have an elevation that range from 1,160 to over 2,600 meters. Therefore, mornings and evenings can be quite cold.
• Remote location; some of the national parks are isolated which means that access to shops or replacement of the gears is limited. Therefore, packing each and everything in advance makes the safari more enjoyable and smooth.
• Dense jungles; the gorilla trekking safaris take place in the jungles where you will have to move through the steep hills, muddy trails and thick foliage in search of the endangered mountain gorillas. Therefore, proper trekking gears are important for your safety and comfort.

A well prepared list is important for increasing comfort, safety and overall safari experience while on an african safari.

ESSENTIAL CLOTHING FOR GORILLA TREKKING

1. Long sleeved shirts

When tourists are preparing for a gorilla trekking safari, long sleeved shirts are more important. The dense rainforest vegetation in national parks like Bwindi impenetrable national park are thick, thorny and at times ruthless.

Lightweight and breathing material such as cotton materials help to regulate the body temperature as you stay comfortable throughout the african safari. neutral colours such as khaki, olive green and brown are perfect for a wildlife safari because they blend into the natural environment without capturing unnecessary attention from the animals. Bright colours tend to disturb animals especially during a sensitive activity like gorilla trekking where one has to maintain a calm and peaceful environment.

2. Waterproof jacket

Rainfall is often and uncertain within the tropical rainforests. A high quality waterproof jacket or sweater is important for your gorilla trekking safari. even though its in the dry seasons, abrupt rain can come without any warning.

A light weight jacket with a hood makes sure you stay dry without overheating. This helps you to be comfortable and prevent fatigue and illness thus ensuring a memorable african safari adventure.

3. Gardening gloves

Although, they are under looked, garden gloves are an addition to the gorilla trekking gears. Navigating through the thick vegetation frequently requires holding branches, vines or tree trunks for support most especially in steep or muddy areas such as in Mgahinga gorilla national park and volcanoes national park. the gloves help in protecting your hands from thorns, insect bites and rough surfaces hence making the african safari experience a comfortable one.

4. Long trousers

Long trousers are a must on any packing list for the gorilla trekking safari. the rainforest floor is covered with thorny vines, sharp branches and insects. Wearing durable trekking trousers protects your legs from bites, cuts and irritation.

Therefore, choosing the lightweight, quick drying and slightly loose for flexibility while on the steep climbs.

5. Sturdy hiking boots

The footwears can either make or break your gorilla trekking experience. The landscape is frequently steep, muddy and slippery thus they need a durable and waterproof hiking boots with a strong grip as well as an ankle support.

Tourists are encouraged to invest in boots that are used before the safari to avoid blisters. A proper footwear makes sure that there’s stability and reduce the risk of injuries thus focusing on the moment of observing the mountain gorillas.

6. Gaiters

Gaiters are highly valuable while on a gorilla trekking safari. they help in covering the gap between the boots and trousers thus preventing mud, water and insects from entering. Within the dense rainforest conditions, gaiters help in keeping you clean and dry thus making you more comfortable while on your african safari.

ACCESSORIES

1. Backpack

A waterproof daypack is important for putting your items while on a gorilla trekking safari. trekkers are advised to choose one with a padded strap for comfort as treks can last for many hours. The bag can have things like water, snacks, a camera and a rain jacket among others to make a smooth wildlife safari experience.

2. Hat and sunglasses

Although your in the forest, there is time when you will be exposed to direct sunlight. A wide brim hat and a uv protection sunglasses are important for safeguarding yourself while on your african safari.

3. Insect repellent

Insects are part of the forests ecosystem thus making the repellent a must have for the gorilla trekking safari. mosquitoes and other insects can cause discomfort and as well cause diseases.

4. Sunscreen

Even in the forest, uv exposure can affect the skin so applying sunscreen is an important step in preparing the african safari adventure.

5. Reusable water bottle

Hydration is important while on a gorilla trekking safari. the trek can be physically challenging frequently hiking at the high altitudes and through the wet conditions. Therefore, carrying at least 2 litres of water makes sure that you stay energised and focused through the whole gorilla trekking safari.

6. Energy food and snacks

Packing snacks such as nuts, dried fruits help in fuelling the trekkers energy levels in order to complete the gorilla trekking safari comfortably. These energy foods help in long treks such as Bwindi impenetrable national park.

7. Binoculars

Binoculars help you to have a clear view of the mountain gorillas at a distance and other wildlife species such as birds, mammals, butterflies among others

A camera and photography gear

A trekking safari provides an unforgettable wildlife encounter as one has to capture the moments and this requires a camera gears;

• A high quality DSLR or a camera without mirrors
• Extra batteries since the cold weather drains power so fast
• Extra memory cards and a waterproof camera bag.

Photography is an important part of any african safari but no flash photography since its prohibited.

HEALTH AND SAFETY ESSENTIALS

1. First aid kit

A first aid kit is important for any african safari. the kit should have bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain killers and personal medication to handle small injuries while on a gorilla trekking experience.

2. Sanitizer and wipes

So as to maintain hygiene in the forest, tourists are encouraged to carry hand sanitizers and wet wipes which help to keep you clean before any meals and after touching the surfaces during the wildlife safari.

3. Face masks

Packing List For Gorilla Trekking

Since the endangered mountain gorillas are highly susceptible to human diseases because of their genetic similarity. Wearing a face mask while on a gorilla trekking safari helps to protect the gentle giants.

DOCUMENTS AND PERMITS

Before starting your african safari, tourists are encouraged to have all the necessary documents and these include;

• Passport
• The gorilla trekking permit
• Travel insurance

However, permits are a must have for the gorilla trekking to take place and these should be secured in advance.