Preparing for a gorilla trek requires careful planning—you’ll need the right gear, fitness level, and knowledge to fully enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
📌 Essential Packing List
Clothing (Neutral Colors Only!)
✔ Hiking pants (quick-dry, lightweight)
✔ Long-sleeved shirt (protection from bugs & sun)
✔ Waterproof jacket (rain is common)
✔ Warm fleece (mornings are chilly at high elevation)
✔ Sturdy hiking boots (ankle support + waterproof)
✔ Gardening gloves (for gripping vines & branches)
Gear
✔ Daypack (20-30L, waterproof cover)
✔ Trekking poles (provided but bring your own if preferred)
✔ Reusable water bottle (2L minimum)
✔ Waterproof phone case/dry bag
✔ Binoculars (optional but great for birding)
Health & Safety
✔ Hand sanitizer/wipes (no germs near gorillas!)
✔ Basic first aid kit (blister pads, antiseptic)
✔ Prescription meds + diarrhea tablets
✔ Sunscreen & lip balm (high-altitude sun is strong)
✔ Insect repellent (DEET-based for rainforest)
Extras
✔ Camera (no flash, extra batteries)
✔ Power bank (many lodges have limited electricity)
✔ Cash in small bills (tips for guides/porters)
💪 Fitness Preparation
Gorilla trekking is moderate to strenuous—you’ll hike 2-8 hours on uneven terrain at 1,500-2,600m elevation.
8-Week Training Plan:
- Cardio: 3x weekly (hiking, stair climbing, or jogging)
- Leg strength: Squats & lunges to build endurance
- Practice hikes: With a weighted backpack
Pro Tip: Rent a porter ($15-$20) to carry your gear—it supports locals and eases your hike!
📅 Pre-Trip Checklist
✅ Book permits 6-12 months ahead (especially for Rwanda)
✅ Yellow fever vaccination (required) + malaria prophylaxis
✅ Travel insurance (covers emergency evacuation)
✅ Break in hiking boots before the trip
🌿 On-Trek Etiquette
- Stay 7m from gorillas (but they may approach you)
- No flash photography or loud noises
- Turn away if you need to sneeze/cough
- Follow your guide’s instructions immediately
🚫 What NOT to Bring
✖ Bright-colored clothing (wear greens/browns)
✖ Drones (illegal in parks)
✖ Single-use plastics (many parks ban them)
✖ Perfume/scented products (can disturb gorillas)
⛑ Health & Safety Notes
- Altitude sickness is rare but possible—stay hydrated
- Gorillas are 98% human DNA—if you’re sick, skip the trek
- Park rangers carry rifles (for protection against forest buffalo/elephants)