Gorilla Trekking Preparation: The 2026 Packing and Fitness Guide
You have secured your permit for 2026. The excitement is building, but now the practical questions start to surface. What do you actually wear to face the thickest jungles in Africa? How do you prepare your body for a hike that has no set path?
Preparation for a gorilla encounter is not about buying the most expensive gear in the shop. It is about understanding the specific, often harsh, environment of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Volcanoes National Park. Our team at Elephant Whispers Safaris spends every week in these forests. We have seen guests arrive with the wrong shoes, the wrong clothes, and no idea about the physical demands.
This is the firsthand information you need to move from a nervous traveler to a prepared trekker. We will cover the granular details of your packing list, the fitness training that actually matters, and the health precautions that keep both you and the gorillas safe.
The Non-Negotiable Gorilla Trekking Packing List
The terrain in Uganda and Rwanda is beautiful but unforgiving. One moment you are walking through soft bamboo, and the next you are sliding down a muddy slope or pushing through stinging nettles. Your clothing is your primary defense.
Footwear
Your shoes are the most important item you will pack. Do not bring brand-new boots and wear them for the first time on the morning of your trek. You need waterproof hiking boots with excellent ankle support. The ground is rarely flat. You will be stepping over roots, rocks, and slippery mud. Low-cut trail shoes do not offer the protection your ankles need when you lose your footing. Pair your boots with moisture-wicking socks. Avoid thin dress socks or basic cotton. Look for wool blends that keep your feet dry even if a bit of water gets in.
The Layering System
The temperature in the rainforest changes fast. It is cold at 7:00 AM during the briefing and humid by noon. You need long-sleeved shirts made of synthetic, quick-dry material. Long sleeves protect your arms from “wait-a-bit” thorns and insects. For trousers, choose lightweight trekking pants. Avoid heavy jeans. Once denim gets wet from rain or sweat, it becomes heavy and never dries.
The Gardening Gloves
This is the one item most travelers forget. You will often need to grab onto branches, vines, or even the ground to pull yourself up a steep ridge. The forest is full of thorns and stinging nettles that can cause a painful rash. A simple pair of sturdy gardening gloves allows you to grab anything for support without thinking twice. We consider these as essential as your camera.
Gaiters and Protection
In the field, we always tell our guests to “tuck in.” This means tucking your trousers into your socks. It looks funny, but it stops fire ants from crawling up your legs. A better solution is a pair of waterproof gaiters. They cover the gap between your boots and trousers, keeping out mud, water, and crawling insects.
What Not to Wear: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid Camouflage Patterns In Uganda and Rwanda, camouflage clothing is reserved for the military. It is illegal for civilians to wear it. Even a small camo-print hat can cause issues at security checkpoints. Stick to solid, neutral colors.
No Bright Colors Avoid bright reds, yellows, or whites. These colors stand out in the forest and can act as a warning or a distraction to the gorillas. More importantly, bright colors attract tsetse flies and other insects. Earth tones like khaki, green, and brown are the gold standard. They help you blend into the environment and keep the animals at ease.
Skip the Heavy Perfume. The jungle has its own scents. Strong perfumes, colognes, or heavily scented deodorants can irritate the gorillas or attract unwanted insects. Use unscented products whenever possible.
Leave the Flash at Home. While this is about gear rather than clothing, it is vital. If your camera has an automatic flash, learn how to disable it before you enter the park. Flash photography is strictly prohibited. It can provoke a silverback and will result in your trek being ended immediately by the rangers
Physical Fitness
You do not need to be an Olympic athlete, but you should not underestimate the mountains. A gorilla trek can last two hours or eight hours. You never know where the family will be.
Cardio and Endurance
The altitude is the biggest factor. Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park sit between 1,100 and 3,000 meters above sea level. The air is thinner. Start a walking routine at least two months before your 2026 trip. If you live in a flat area, find a stadium with stairs or use the incline setting on a treadmill. Aim for 30 to 45 minutes of steady walking three times a week.
Leg Strength and Balance
The trek involves “jungle gymnastics.” You will be stepping over fallen trees and balancing on narrow paths. Incorporate squats and lunges into your routine to build strength in your quads and glutes. Good leg strength reduces the chance of muscle fatigue, which is when most injuries happen.
The Daypack Test
During the trek, you will carry a small backpack with your water, lunch, and camera gear. This usually weighs about 5 to 7 kilograms. During your training walks at home, wear the same backpack. It helps your shoulders and back get used to the weight. If this sounds difficult, remember that you can hire a porter at the park headquarters. This supports the local economy and makes your hike much more enjoyable.
Health and Safety Requirements for 2026
Your health directly impacts the survival of the mountain gorillas. Because we share so much DNA, a simple human cold can be fatal to a whole gorilla family.
The Sickness Policy
If you have a cough, flu, or an upset stomach on the day of the trek, be honest with the rangers. According to the official guidelines from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), you will not be allowed to trek if you are sick. Usually, the park will help reschedule your trek or offer a partial refund. We recommend carrying a high-quality N95 mask to wear while you are near the gorillas to further reduce any risk.
Vaccinations and Malaria
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is a mandatory requirement for entry into Uganda and is often checked at the border in Rwanda. You must receive this shot at least 10 days before you travel. Both countries are malaria-endemic regions. Consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis. Most of our guests find that Malarone or Doxycycline works well with minimal side effects. Always carry a strong insect repellent with at least 30% DEET content to apply to your skin and clothing.
Stay Hydrated
The humidity in the forest will make you sweat more than you realize. You should carry at least 2 to 3 liters of bottled water. Do not drink tap water in your lodge or at the park. Most lodges provide filtered or bottled water for your trek.
Why Proper Preparation Matters
We have seen the difference between a prepared guest and an unprepared one. The prepared guest is looking at the silverback. They are noticing the way the infants play in the vines. The unprepared guest is looking at their feet, complaining about blisters, or struggling to breathe. By following this list, you remove the distractions. You give yourself the best chance to actually experience the moment when a 400-pound gorilla looks you in the eye.
At Elephant Whispers Safaris, we take the time to check your gear the night before the trek. We ensure your boots are laced correctly, and your bag is packed with the right balance. This granular attention to detail is what separates a standard trip from a life-changing one
Now that you are packed, here is what the day looks like…..
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need gaiters for the trek?
Gaiters are not mandatory, but they are highly recommended. They prevent mud and stinging nettles from touching your skin. More importantly, they provide a solid barrier against biting ants. If you do not have gaiters, you must tuck your trousers into your long socks, which is less effective in deep mud.
Can I wear sneakers or trainers instead of boots?
We strongly advise against sneakers. The trails are steep and often very slippery. Sneakers lack the grip needed for mud and do not provide ankle support. A twisted ankle in the middle of the rainforest is a difficult situation. Invest in a pair of dedicated hiking boots.
Is there a place to buy gear near the parks?
Selection is very limited near the park headquarters. You might find basic walking sticks for hire, but you will not find high-quality boots or waterproof clothing. You should buy all your technical gear before you leave your home country and test it thoroughly.
What kind of snacks should I bring?
Your lodge will provide a packed lunch, but it is wise to bring high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or energy bars. Avoid snacks with lots of salt, as these will make you thirstier. Keep your snacks in a sealed bag to avoid attracting insects.
How do I handle bathroom breaks in the forest?
There are no toilets in the jungle. If you need to go, you must tell your ranger. They will dig a hole for you, and you must bury all waste and paper. This is a strict rule to prevent the spread of human bacteria to the gorilla habitat.
Do I need a first aid kit?
Your lead guide will carry a basic first aid kit, but you should have a personal one. Include items like blister plasters (moleskin), antiseptic wipes, and any personal medication. If you use an inhaler or have an EpiPen, ensure it is easily accessible in your daypack.
What if I am not fit enough on the day?
If you are worried about your fitness, tell the rangers during the morning briefing. They usually categorize treks as “short,” “medium,” or “long” based on where the gorillas were the day before. They will try to place you in a group that matches your physical ability.
Are there walking sticks available at the park?
Yes, most park headquarters provide wooden walking sticks for a small tip or a small fee. They are incredibly helpful for balance on steep descents. Even if you feel fit, we recommend taking one. It acts as a “third leg” in the slippery forest.
