Among the most thrilling wildlife experience in Africa is gorilla trekking. Gorillas are intriguing primates because of how they act and think like we Humans. You can understand that mountain gorillas are among the kindest and most relaxed primates by reading more information about them. On earth, there are only 1,000 mountain gorillas left.
They are distinct from lowland gorillas, which are popular in Central and West African forests and zoos. These primates are social creatures that live in groups under the leadership of a dominant silverback who always keeps everything in check. Only Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R. Congo are home to the critically endangered mountain gorillas. Mountain gorillas can be found in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks in Uganda, where they make up half of the species’ entire population.
Gorilla trekking is a very popular and expensive activity, but it is absolutely worth it. After scheduling your gorilla tour and taking care of everything involved, including permits, transportation, meals, and lodging, either through a tour company (recommended) or on your own, comes the time to pack your bags, and of course you’re asking yourself, “What should I pack for a gorilla trek?” Gorilla trekking is a thrilling and daring adventure, but you must be prepared. One of the most frequent mistakes made by tourists who have not adequately prepared for gorilla trekking is the wearing of unsuitable clothing, such as shorts, basic sandals, and white sneakers.
PACKING LIST FOR GORILLA TREKKING.
The following list of items to bring on a gorilla hike will make the entire experience amazing. Always keep in mind that it is strongly advised to use porters to help you carry any additional stuff.
Gorilla Permits and Passport
Just before starting your journey, you will be needed to present your passport and gorilla permit at the hotel and park headquarters. A visa and legitimate travel documents are crucial for every safari. Never take a passport that is about to expire on a trip. You won’t be permitted to enter the country or conduct gorilla tracking without the necessary travel documentation. Make sure you have the card and have received the yellow fever vaccinations.
Hiking Boots
When packing for a gorilla trip in Bwindi or another national park, it’s crucial to include hiking boots. A stronger grip of the hilly, occasionally muddy terrain will be ensured by high-quality hiking footwear. Your ankles could get damaged if you wear cheap boots or simple shoes. Never forget that mountain climbing in high altitude regions is a necessary part of gorilla trekking. The wet season causes the pathways to become slippery and muddy.
Food and water
Trekking gorillas is quite unpredictable. Everything is based on where the gorilla family is on the day of the trek. The duration of the task can range from 30 minutes to 6 hours. Long distance trekking may leave you hungry and exhausted. Your hotel should provide you with a packed lunch, or you can bring your own energy foods.
In Uganda, grocery stores and super markets sell energizing snacks. Just be sure to remember them while checking into your hotel for the briefing. Remember that tracking mountain gorillas for an extended period of time can be exhausting and that you will need extra water. You’re likely to receive water from your lodge if not carry along a bottle of water. And remember not to litter the park.
Camera
How will your buddies find out about your safari encounters? How will you recall what happened? Be ready to capture images of the gorillas, the breathtaking park landscape, and various locations as you travel. Bring extra batteries in case the camera’s battery dies. Avoid using flash when taking pictures of the gorillas. They’ll become upset.
Toiletries
These are crucial for general safaris in other national parks as well as gorilla trekking. For those who need to relieve themselves after a strenuous gorilla walk, the amenities contain toilet paper. Most motels don’t offer toothpaste and toothbrushes.
You should also bring your preferred shampoos, deodorants, hand sanitizers, shavers, hair conditioners, lip balm, wipes, and lotions, as well as your own sanitary pads (for women).
Walking stick
A walking stick will make it easier for you to navigate the difficult terrain and dense forest. After the briefing, the sticks are free to take.
Binoculars
You won’t be spending all of your time with gorillas. You will see many different bird species, forest elephants, buffalo, chimpanzees, and colobus monkeys among many other animals on your journey. If you have a good pair of binoculars, you can see the birds and primates clearly.
A hat, Sun glasses and sun screen
You will be shielded from the sun’s heat by these, especially in the dry season. These things are also necessary if you intend to combine gorilla trekking with a trip to one of the other national parks, which are known for their hotter climate.
Tips/Money
For your drivers, porters, rangers and hotel personnel, reward them for protecting the gorillas and facilitating your comfortable journey. Keep in mind that most come from disadvantaged backgrounds. If you decide to tip, do so only after the service has been rendered and only in appreciation of exceptionally good or professional service. Tip them in local currency because it is more convenient for them.
Appropriate Clothing for gorilla trekking.
Pack water-resistant pants, coats, long sleeved shirts, sweaters, long socks, and long pants for going gorilla trekking. A rain jacket and a sweater are also necessary for chilly weather and rain. Wearing the appropriate attire will help keep you safe from the sun, insects, ants, and sharp tree branches.
To keep safari ants and other insects from entering your body, always tack your pants into your boots. When organizing your gorilla tour, you should also think about packing a pair of shorts for lounging around the lodge and pajamas for chilly nights. Include long socks as well to protect your feet. Don’t forget your gloves because they will assist you hold thorny vegetation, branches and trees.
After packing most of the items listed, you will surely have a memorable gorilla trekking experience in east Africa.
