Gorilla Trekking Packing List -- The Complete Guide
Gorilla trekking is 1-6 hours of hiking through mountain forest at 2,000-3,000 metres altitude in Rwanda. What you carry matters -- too much and the trek is exhausting, too little and you are uncomfortable or underprepared. This list is based on what actually works, not a generic outdoor gear list.
Footwear -- The Most Important Item
- Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support: Non-negotiable. The Volcanoes NP forest floor is consistently muddy regardless of season. Low-cut trail runners get soaked within 15 minutes. Ankle support matters on steep, uneven terrain. Break them in before the trek -- a first-wear blister 3 hours into the forest is a serious problem.
- Gaiters: Optional but very useful. Keep mud and small insects out of your boot tops.
Clothing
- Long trousers: Mandatory. The forest has stinging nettles, thorns, and insects. No shorts on the gorilla trek.
- Long-sleeved shirt: Also mandatory for the same reasons.
- Waterproof jacket: Mountain weather changes fast. Even in dry season, mist and light rain are common at altitude. Pack a light waterproof, not a heavy ski jacket.
- Light mid-layer (fleece or thin down jacket): The forest can be cold at 3,000m. A light mid-layer over your shirt is useful for the early morning start.
- Gardening gloves: Sounds odd but seriously useful. The forest floor involves grabbing roots and branches for balance. Gloves protect your hands and give a better grip.
Daypack Contents
- 1.5 litres of water minimum -- 2 litres for longer treks
- High-energy snacks -- trek is 2-6 hours, no food stops
- Camera -- the moment the silverback looks at you, you want to be ready
- Rain cover for your daypack
- Small first aid kit -- plasters, blister treatment
- Insect repellent (DEET-based)
- Sunscreen for the walk to and from the forest
What NOT to Bring
- Flash photography -- prohibited. Your camera must have flash disabled.
- Food into the gorilla area -- prohibited for disease prevention
- Large suitcase -- leave luggage at your lodge. Only a daypack in the forest.
- Drone -- absolutely prohibited. See our drone rules guide.
What You Can Buy in Kigali or Musanze
Forgot something? Simba Supermarket in Kigali and outdoor gear shops in Musanze stock:
- Basic rain jackets (limited selection)
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Water and snacks
- Basic gloves
For proper waterproof boots, buy before you travel -- the selection in Rwanda is limited.
Getting to the Trek with All Your Gear
Gorilla trekking requires an early 5:00 AM departure from Kigali or Musanze. A rental car means your gear is organised in your own vehicle, you leave when you are ready, and you are not sharing boot space with other tourists' luggage. Book your gorilla trekking vehicle here.
