What to Pack for a Gorilla Tracking Safari

Gorilla tracking is arguably the most memorable experience you will ever have on an African safari, and knowing what to pack for gorilla tracking will certainly help you enjoy the activity even more! Whether gorilla tracking in Rwanda, gorilla tracking in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, or gorilla tracking in Uganda—the best places in Africa to do so—you will never forget the pure entertainment of hanging out with gentle packs of mountain gorillas as they frolic, play, nap, and break bread over giant stalks of bamboo: just like your very own family! (Though we do hope you feed your family more than bamboo). Rwanda, Uganda and DR Congo all feature mountainous rainforest terrain and—in some places—extinct volcanoes, and all are excellent natural habitats in which gorillas thrive. But there are only around 800 mountain gorillas left in the world, so seeing them in the wild is not something most travelers will ever have the chance to do. You want to make sure you don’t miss a thing for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Epic Road has come up with the following list so you will be fully prepared to join in the fun on your Gorilla tracking safari.

WHAT TO PACK FOR GORILLA TRACKING:

A small, lightweight day backpack
Light, water resistant hiking boots, with ankle support
Walking socks
Canvas or leather gloves (to protect your hands from ‘spiky’ vegetation)
Water resistant trousers/pants
Water resistant jacket or poncho, with hood (or water resistant hat)
Lightweight, quick-dry hiking trousers
Long-sleeved shirt (to protect arms)
A down/fleece vest or safari jacket
Water bottle or canteen (a packed lunch will be provided by your Lodge)
A camera or video-camera with high-speed settings (or ISO 800 speed film minimum—no flash photography is allowed)
Sunscreen & after-sun care
Insect repellent (30% DEET or more)