What to carry for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
What to carry for Gorilla Trekking in Africa? Upon visiting Virunga National Park of Congo, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, spending time with a family of mountain and lowland gorillas is one of the most well-liked and unusual adventure activities that draws most tourists. As such, it can be a life-changing event. An important part of keeping these extremely endangered animals and their habitat intact is tourism in the isolated rainforest regions of Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda in East Africa.
A moderate degree of fitness is needed for this adventure because you will be hiking in humid weather through dense foliage and along steep, occasionally muddy mountain trails. Shoes and apparel need to be suitable for these circumstances. You may get a better idea of what to pack for your gorilla trekking excursion by looking at this helpful information.
What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
- Brimmed Hat
- Long pair of trousers
- Long sleeved cotton shirts
- Hooded water proof Jacket
- UV-filter sunglasses
- Thin cotton inner socks and thick outer socks to prevent blisters
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Twin trekking poles for balance on uneven ground
- Hiking shoes, boots and light shoes for camp
- Light daypack for hands free hydration
- Camera phone and universal charger
- Headlamp
- Certified copies of passport prescriptions, travel insurance, inoculations, and next-of-kin contact details.
- Clothing
Based on what to pack for gorilla trekking in Africa, always wear natural colours to blend in with your surroundings and demonstrate your respect and sympathy for these animals. Choose lightweight fabrics that wick away moisture in hues of green, grey, and brown. Steer clear of camouflage; it is forbidden for people to wear several colours. Avoid dressing in animal print since it could frighten the gorillas when they “see a leopard.” This includes wearing clothing with patterns and motifs that mimic the skin and pelts of zebras, leopards, cheetahs, and other animals.
Furthermore, wearing bright colours to promote exploitation, warn of danger, or draw attention to conservation and welfare issues is discouraged for travellers. Dress in long sleeves and trousers, even though it will be scorching outside. Covering your arms and legs will protect them from insects and scratches, especially if the flora is spiky. Hikers who are concerned about hand injuries can use gardening gloves, which allow them to safely grasp onto branches and plants for support.
During gorilla trekking in Africa, make sure you pack the most supportive waterproof boots you can locate. Ankle support and grip are essential for treks that can last up to eight hours in the mud. Blisters can be caused by wearing thinner, moisture-wicking socks under thicker cotton socks. Put on long-sleeve shirts and trousers, and dress in hues of brown, green and grey. Your guide may provide disposable masks in certain regions because gorillas can contract human infections.
Gears and what to carry for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
Trekking poles are fantastic for adding additional balance and support, but they are not necessary for everyone. To get acclimated to it, start with a few practice hikes at home. To prevent mud, sand, stones, and water from getting out of your boots, get a pair of gaiters. Dry bottom trousers will be prevented by knee-high ones. You can drink water with your hands free if you use a Camelback water pouch. Drink plenty of water, especially when you are up high.
Please think about hiring (and tipping) a porter if one is offered to carry your pack. Numerous porters are former poachers who depend on their trekking earnings to sustain their families and avoid reverting to profitable poaching.
Our top tips for first-time gorilla trekkers
Gorilla trekking might take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours to locate a family group; expeditions are conducted by qualified guides and trackers. You will not be left behind or required to walk quickly; instead, your guide will pause frequently to give you time to rest and recharge.
Once you locate a family, you will observe them for a duration of 45- 1 hour, keeping a safe distance as mandated by the authorities. After taking images (without using a flash or producing loud mechanical noises), set aside some time to observe their incredibly relatable actions, conversations, and feelings. Habituated gorillas will put up with human presence, but it is crucial to avoid upsetting or upsetting the group with intrusive movements, noise, or food consumption. Expect a lot of insects—a common occurrence in any rainforest—but it will be well worth the effort to see gorillas and be in such a beautiful location.
During gorilla trekking in Africa, try to blend in as much as you can, wear comfortable clothing, and travel with as little as possible. To go to your lodge or camp, you might have to use a light aircraft, which has tight weight and size restrictions on luggage. Ask your African Safari Expert to make arrangements for the safe storage of your excess luggage if you plan to travel following your gorilla walk.
Are you interested in finding out more about the amazing animals and hidden locations in East Africa? For additional details regarding travel to East Africa, visit our website. Get in contact with an African Safari Expert at Journeys Uganda if you are prepared to begin organising your ideal safari.
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