Best Snacks & Food to Pack for a Gorilla Trek
Gorilla trekking is physically demanding, often lasting 2-8 hours in challenging terrain. Packing the right snacks ensures you stay energized without weighing down your daypack. Here’s what to bring—and what to avoid.
✔ Best Gorilla Trekking Snacks
1. Energy-Boosting Essentials
- Nuts & trail mix (almonds, cashews, peanuts—high in protein/fat)
- Dried fruit (apricots, mango, raisins—quick carbs)
- Energy bars (Clif Bars, Nature Valley—avoid chocolate-covered in heat)
- Bananas (natural electrolytes, easy to eat)
2. Hydration Support
- Electrolyte tablets (Nuun, DripDrop—add to water)
- Coconut water packets (natural potassium)
3. Lightweight & Non-Messy Options
- Peanut butter packets (Justin’s or similar)
- Hard cheese & crackers (if not too hot)
- Beef jerky (protein-rich, long shelf life)
4. Post-Trek Recovery
- Dark chocolate (reward after the hike!)
- Instant coffee packets (some lodges provide hot water in the field)
❌ What NOT to Bring
- Crumbly snacks (attracts ants/bees)
- Strong-smelling foods (can disturb wildlife)
- Single-use plastic wrappers (many parks ban them)
- Alcohol (dehydrates you at high altitude)
📌 Packing Tips
- Use reusable silicone bags (eco-friendly, sealable)
- Pack 1.5x more than you think you’ll need (hikes can run long)
- Share with porters/guides (a kind gesture)
Pro Tip: Ask your lodge for a packed lunch—some provide sandwiches/fruit.
🚰 Water Rules
- Carry 2-3 liters (hydration bladders work well)
- Sterilize wild water (if refilling, use tablets/filter)
- No disposable bottles (parks prefer reusable)
Sample Gorilla Trek Snack Pack
- 1 trail mix bag
- 2 energy bars
- 1 banana
- 1 electrolyte tablet
- Peanut butter packet
- 2L water