What to pack for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

What to pack for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is a common question for many adventure travellers.The Packing List for Gorilla Trekking is an important topic to cover because
anyone intending to see the primates has to consider what to pack at some
point.
Gorillas are fascinating creatures because they behave and resemble we humans.
If you read more facts about mountain gorillas, you will learn that they are one
of the most gentle and calm primates. Only 1,000 mountain gorillas remain on
earth. They are different from lowland gorillas that are common in zoos and
forests of Central/West Africa.  The endangered Mountain gorillas are only
fond in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo. Uganda has half of the total number of
mountain gorillas. In Uganda, the primates can be seen in Bwindi and Mgahinga
National Park. To see mountain gorillas in Rwanda, you need to visit the
Volcanoes National Park.

Gorilla trekking is an extremely popular and expensive activity but worth every
penny. After booking your gorilla tour and leaving the issue of transport,
permits and accommodation to your tour operator, the next thing that comes to
mind is how best to prepare. You might ask yourself the question – What should
I pack for gorilla trekking?  Though gorilla trekking is an exciting and
adventurous activity, you need to go prepared. One of the most common
mistakes tourists make is not preparing well but this article is going to show you
the things to prepare.

Things to Pack for a gorilla trek

I have compiled a list of the things to pack during gorilla trekking and that will
make the whole adventure awesome and memorable.

Gorilla Permits and Passport

You will be required to show your gorilla permit and passport at the hotel and park offices just before beginning your
trek. Valid travel documents and a Visa are very important for any safari. Don’ t travel with a passport that is about to expire. Without the required travel documents, you will not be allowed in the country and to track the gorillas. Also ensure that you take the yellow fever shots and have the card.

Hiking Boots

It is very important to include hiking boots among the things to
pack for gorilla trekking in Bwindi or other national parks. High quality hiking
boots will ensure a better grip of the hilly and sometimes muddy terrain. Poor
quality boots or plain sneakers could hurt your ankles. Always remember that
gorilla trekking involves climbing steep hills in areas with high altitude. The
trails can get muddy or slippery during the wet season.

Clothing

When deciding on the clothes to pack for gorilla trekking, ensure you
include water proof trousers, jackets, long sleeved shirts, sweaters, long socks
and long trousers. The right clothing will help protect you from getting wet,
sharp tree branches, the sun and insects/ants. Always tack in your trousers to
your boots to prevent safari ants and other insects from entering your body.
Other clothing to take into consideration while planning your gorilla tour are a
pair of shorts for relaxation while back at the lodge and Pyjamas for the cold
nights. Also include long socks to cover your feet.

A Rain Jacket and sweater

This is an essential item for packing especially
during the wet season. Gorillas live in tropical rain forests and rain should be
expected at any time regardless of the period of the year. A rain jacket should
therefore be on top of your packing list even if you are planning to come in the
so called dry season. The sweater will keep you warm during the cold evenings
and mornings. The Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga are located in areas of
high altitudes with several volcanoes on the horizon which release cold winds
and mist.
You should not also forget the energy giving snacks, insect repellent and the