Packing Guide for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi, Volcanoes & Mgahinga
The most amazing wildlife experiences in Africa are to be had with gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. But difficult terrain, unpredictable weather and remote jungle conditions call for careful preparation.
Choosing the right gear is key to success. Dense rainforests pose special challenges: steep slopes, muddy trails, thick vegetation, and unpredictable weather require specialised equipment. Pack poorly, and you’ll ruin your experience. Pack well, and you’ll be comfortable and safe and have wonderful encounters with these magnificent creatures.
The main packing categories discussed in this guide are: layered clothing for forest conditions, specialised trekking gear for difficult terrain, and important health/safety items. Knowing what to bring and leave behind makes the most of your once-in-a-lifetime adventure while honouring the protected homes of these endangered primates.
Clothing
- Hiking boots (waterproof, broken-in, good ankle support)
- Thick hiking socks (wool or synthetic, multiple pairs)
- Long-sleeved shirts (moisture-wicking, for sun and bug protection)
- Long hiking trousers (sturdy, quick-dry fabric)
- Lightweight rain jacket (packable, waterproof)
- Warm layer (fleece or wool sweater—higher elevations get cold)
- Hat or cap (protects from sun and rain)
- Underwear (moisture-wicking, extra pairs)
- Warm socks (for evenings)
- Insect-repellent clothing (optional lightweight long sleeves)
Footwear & Leg Protection
- Gaiters (protect legs from mud, insects, nettles)
- Spare shoes (for camp/lodge)
Outerwear & Weather
- Waterproof backpack cover or pack rain jacket
- Poncho or full rain suit (optional, for heavy rain)
- Gloves (lightweight, for cold/wet conditions)
Personal Care & Health
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Insect repellent (DEET-based for mosquitoes)
- Blister treatment and moleskin
- Pain relief (ibuprofen, paracetamol)
- Altitude/motion sickness medication (if prone)
- Antimalarial medication (as prescribed)
- First aid kit (bandages, antibiotic cream)
- Toilet paper and hand sanitiser
- Personal medications (prescription items)
- Lip balm with SPF
Gear & Equipment
- Binoculars (for wildlife viewing)
- Camera with waterproof bag
- Trekking poles (reduce knee strain on steep descents)
- Daypack (20-30L, waterproof)
- Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Water bottle (2-3 litres)
- Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit)
Optional but Useful
- Leech socks (thin socks worn over hiking socks for leech prevention)
- Microfiber towel
- Plastic bags (for wet gear, electronics)
- Notebook & pen (for notes on gorillas spotted)
- Portable charger (for phones/cameras)
What NOT to Pack
- Perfume or cologne (attracts insects)
- Bright colours (wear earth tones—less intrusive)
- Open-toed shoes
- Heavy/bulky items (porters carry gear, but keep your daypack light)
- Cotton clothing (dries slowly in humidity)
Key Considerations
Bwindi (Uganda): Elevation 1,160–2,607m, Bwindi Forest Park is extremely muddy trails, dense vegetation. Expect challenging terrain and occasional leeches.
Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) Altitude 2,262-4,507 m. Volcanic region. The higher you go, the colder it gets. Volcanoes National park unlike Bwindi, has well-kept trails.
Virunga (Congo): For Virunga National Park in DR Congo, the Volcanoes are of high altitude, volcanic slopes, steeper ascents.
The rainforest environment is wet, muddy and difficult at all times of the year. You’ll need waterproof clothing and strong shoes. Most lodges have porter service, so pack your daypack with purpose and keep it under 10kg for comfort on your trek.
Popular safari packages to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda:
Short Duration Packages
1-Day Gorilla Safari from Kigali The shortest option includes departing Kigali very early in the morning and getting to Volcanoes National Park. This is ideal for those with very limited time.
2-3 Day Gorilla Trekking Safari A 3-day gorilla trekking safari is a short but effective option where you arrive in Kigali, go to Volcanoes National Park, do trekking, and return. The cheapest 2-day, 1-night gorilla trekking safaris out of the Rwandan capital Kigali start at around US$2,000 per person, usually inclusive of transport from Kigali, a transfer to the trailhead, accommodations, meals and the US$1,500 trekking permit.
Medium Duration Packages
3-Day Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking Safari This package gives you a chance to track mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in their natural habitats.
3-Day Gorilla Trek and Dian Fossey Hike An affordable option that includes trekking the endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park as well as hiking the Dian Fossey grave.
5-Day Rwanda Safari A 5-day Rwanda safari includes gorilla trekking, golden monkeys, and city tour.
Low Season 4-Day Package Rwanda Safari & Akagera Safari offers a Low Season 4-Day Safari & Gorilla Trekking package which includes low season discounts on accommodation and park permits, with travelers spending a minimum of two nights in Akagera or Nyungwe National Park before trekking to see mountain gorillas.
Longer/Luxury Packages
6-Night Luxury safari holiday; A 6-night luxury journey through Rwanda combines a private Akagera safari with a stay in the Volcanoes region for mountain gorilla and golden monkey trekking.
8-Day Volcanoes and Nyungwe Park Safari This safari offers the opportunity to see primates and gorillas in Volcanoes National Park as well as combine visits to Nyungwe Park.
Key Activities Included
Beyond gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park offers diverse adventures including golden monkey tracking through bamboo forests, volcano hiking to Mount Bisoke’s crater lake at 3,711m, and Mount Karisimbi at 4,507m.
Most packages operate year-round, though between November and May, visitors can receive a 30% discount on Rwanda gorilla trekking permits from the Rwanda Development Board.
