Ultimate Guide for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda 2026
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a remarkable journey in the Land of a Thousand Hills. This incredible adventure is unlike anything else you will experience on this exceptional African continent. It is no surprise that it requires a bit of special packing.
The climate in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is mild, but whether or not you are traveling in one of the wet seasons, you will need a raincoat.
What to pack for a gorilla trek
I know you have dreamed of the moment. Find a group of gorillas, foraging, playing in a pristine natural habitat. Watching babies wrestle and tumble, mothers reaching after them. Nothing prepares you for the privilege of spending time with these remarkable creatures.
Gorilla trekking may be the pinnacle of your Rwanda Safari. One precious hour is all you will have, here is everything you need to be prepared for that incredible moment.
On a trek to see the gorillas, you will be hiking in the rainforest. As the name suggests, it is rainy up there so you will want be as waterproof as possible, especially if you are carrying a camera.
Lightweight, neutral coloured clothing: quick dry clothing is the best for trekking. High humidity coupled with uphill trekking can be sweaty.
Your packing should include waterproof ponchos, gloves and gaiters. Here are things to bring, and why
Rain Jacket: If you have a tried and tested raincoat that works, bring it along
Gaiters: Not particularly fashionable but necessary. Gaiters help keep sand, grass seeds, and insects away from your ankles and socks.
Gloves: In dense parts of the rainforest, you need protective gloves to push vegetation aside (you will also be thankful to have dry hands when it is finally time to haul out your camera and start photographing gorillas).
Waterproof trousers: It is best to wear lightweight trousers that can tuck into socks or fit under gaiters for protection against stinging nettles.
Safari sun hut: Rainy season or not, wherever you go in Africa a good coverage hut is essential
Good closed shoes: You will want shoes or boots that you have walked in before. Think comfortable, non-slip, ankle support.
Camera: Keep in mind that carrying a long zoom lens will be heavy. Opt for a mid-size lens, and bring a long cloth as fogged-up lens when capturing a gorilla portrait will not do!
Waterproof backpack: You will want to keep your valuables like cameras and binoculars dry.
Walking Stick: It is good to have one on any hike, a lightweight, fold-up stick will come in handy when you need a bit of support, and to move vegetation out of the way.
Sunglasses: Tinted fashion glasses may look good in your photos, but your eyes will thank you for polarised lenses or UV protection.
Eyewear: Glasses may mist up in the humidity or rain. Plain to wear contact lenses if possible, all the better to see the gorillas with.
Cash: After your incredible time with the gorillas, you may want to tip your guide
Water and snacks: Wilderness will provide water and snacks to keep you going throughout your trek, but if you have any special energy-packed treats you would like to bring along, do.
Hair ties: You won’t want anything obscuring your view of the magnificent gorillas. Your hair may be frizzy, but your heart will be full.
Your Perfect Packing Bag
You will need a sturdy yet soft duffel bag for flights between camps, as well as a lightweight tote or backpack for all those smaller things you need while out and about gorilla trekking and other activities.
Pack for Purpose
Support children in the local community by leaving a little room in your bag to pack some things for the children of Rwanda.
Most urgently, they need books, bags, coloured pencils, HB pencils, sharpeners, and solar lantern lights, though any stationery, educational tools or personal hygiene products are welcome.
What do I need to know about gorilla trekking?
Rwanda has no strict dress code, although ladies are encouraged to dress conservatively, particularly in urban areas. Wear comfortable cotton clothes during the day and later up with jerseys and closed shoes at night.
You will notice that streets of Rwanda’s cities are litter free. Leave your packets behind, Rwanda is a plastic-free country and hefty fines are handed out to those who carry plastic contraband.
