What to wear for gorilla trekking in Rwanda – Today, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is one of the most popular tourist activities in East Africa.
One of the biggest mistakes most people make when trekking with gorillas is improper dressing.
Some people wear sandals and shorts, which are not appropriate outfits for trekking gorillas. At higher elevations in Volcanoes National Park, the climate is rainy, humid, and cold, especially at night. In fact, hiking in the park isn’t always on comfortable tracks.
Sometimes there aren’t any trails at all, or you hike on very narrow trails.
That’s why, when planning your gorilla safari in Rwanda, it’s important to wear proper clothing that protects you from cold, prickly thorns, stinging nettles, or insect bites like flies or soldier ants.
Make sure you pack the right clothes. If you’re interested in other primate experiences, consider adding golden monkey trekking to your itinerary. Learn more about it here.
- Wear Long-Sleeved Shirts and Long Trousers: You should wear a long-sleeved shirt and long trousers (Khaki zip-up trousers or jeans. In fact, if you can find waterproof trousers, wear those too). Both long pants and long shirts will keep you safe from branches, nips, thorns, and anything else that may sting or scratch your skin. You should wear cotton undergarments. The ladies should also wear comfortable bras as the hike will be difficult for them. While some visitors skip this step and wear shorts and shirts, the truth is that by the time you get home, your exposed skin will be covered in scratches, so make sure you follow this step.
- Wear Waterproof, Sturdy Hiking Boots: Hiking trails can be slippery, especially when it rains, so you need a waterproof pair of hiking boots, especially for a gorilla safari. The shoes should also be comfortable for you. In fact, most rangers and trekkers wear rubber boots or gumboots, so you won’t see anyone wearing white sneakers or sandals or any other uncomfortable footwear. Your hiking boots will provide you with good stability, good balance, good traction, and good support for your ankles. They should also be paired with good quality and thick socks. Tucking your trousers into your hiking socks is also important. It may sound silly, but it will keep you safe from fire ants.
- Sturdy Gardening Gloves: It sounds silly, but it’s true. These tough gardening gloves are for gorilla trekking, not for gardening. They’ll help you support yourself on the branches or vines. They’ll also protect you from the nettles so you don’t get stung. Put them away when you see the gorillas so you can take good pictures.
- A Rain Jacket: Rain jackets are a must-have for trekking in the rainforest. Gorilla trekking is usually in the early morning hours, so rain can fall at any time of the day, even in the dry season. You can also wear a poncho. Trackers, rangers, and porters all wear ponchos. If you have one, carry a lightweight one that you can fold up and slip into your backpack until the next time you need it.
- Wear a Hat: A good wide-brimmed Tilley Hat is all you need. It will protect your head and neck from rain and sun. Some people opt for a baseball cap, but it won’t protect your neck from the sun after the fog has lifted in the mountains. If you don’t bring your Tilley Hat with you, you can buy one at any local craft market in the country from which you are trekking. Wear your Tilley Hat and you’ll be glad you did.
- Wear Enough Insect Repellent: During the trek, you will encounter a variety of insects, so it is recommended that you wear plenty of insect repellent to protect your skin. You can also apply sunblock cream to your exposed skin. If you are going on a full-day gorilla habitat experience, it is recommended to bring insect repellent with you in your daypack.
- Sunglasses: These protect you from the direct rays of the sun.
- A Warm Sweater: Some people might ask, “Why are you wearing a sweater in Rwanda?” The answer is yes, and it is essential to have a sweater or a cardigan on hand to wear in the morning and at night. It really gets chilly at night. In Volcanoes National Park, the temperature is 10°C / 50°F. This is why the high-end cottages and rooms have fireplaces and other lodges provide guests with hot water bottles to keep them warm during the chilly nights.
In conclusion, when preparing for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, it is crucial to wear appropriate clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and long trousers to protect yourself from the elements and potential hazards during the trek.
