What to Pack for gorilla trekking in Ruhija Sector

Trekking the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a life-changing travel experience and usually one that ranks high on most travelers’ bucket lists. However, a walk to these iconic creatures calls for walking on the wild side-in the deep jungles of Uganda’s Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Congo’s Virunga National Park. Bwindi where Ruhija sector lies is a real African Jungle, hence referred as “Impenetrable”. Its jungles are evidently unending thicket of tangled rainforest with no signposts, path signs, specific walking trails or even Google map abilities.

To find the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitats, you must walk on footsteps of a “Team of Trackers” who use Machete Pangas to create way in the jungle. To give you comfort and achieve memorable trekking experience throughout your jungle adventure in Ruhija sector, leave your designer clothes, shoes or bag but instead bring the following;

These are what to pack for gorilla trekking in Ruhija sector

Gorilla Permit

Before you even think of anything, the gorilla permit must be the first thing to pack for your gorilla trekking experience, because without it you will be denied the chance to even trek the mountain gorillas. To avoid last minute disappointments and given the high demand for gorilla permits, it is important to book at least 3-4 months in advance to allow advance preparations.

Travel documents

Travel documents such as Travel Visa, passport, Covid-19 negative certificates, Travel insurance plan, Itinerary details and yellow fever inoculation certificate should not be forgotten when packing of the gorilla trekking tour in Ruhija sector.

Flashlight

Flashlight/torch is important for your gorilla trekking trip to Ruhija sector for nighttime bathroom visits or night walks around the Lodge, especially when electricity goes off.

Strong Trekking/Hiking boots

Gorilla trekking involves walking through thick jungles with no designated hiking trails thus you will need comfortable footwear. Make sure that the shoes you choose are sturdy, waterproof, thick-soled and must have enough ankle support.

Pair of Binoculars

Binoculars should also not miss on the packing list because they are handy for spotting the smaller and far attractions like wildlife and bird species.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are also vital for protecting eyes from the scorching Tropical sunshine.

Lightweight long pants as well as long-sleeved shirts/blouses

Lightweight long pants and not jeans as well as long-sleeved shirts/blouses are crucial for avoiding tree/grass scratches and insect bites while trekking for mountain gorillas in Ruhija sector. Additionally, make sure to have cotton socks and when trousers are tucked into socks prevent insects from entering into your pants/trousers.

Gardening gloves

Mountain gorillas live in mountainous and heavily forested habitats and sometimes you will need to use tree branches or grass for support. This is where gardening gloves become helpful for protecting hands from scratches and pierces of thorns.

Energy-giving snacks

Make sure to pack some energy giving snacks to keep your energy levels up during gorilla treks in the thick and misty Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Rain Poncho

Whether rain or dry season, don’t forget to pack a rain poncho during gorilla treks in Ruhija sector. A poncho is handy and more convenient than jacket because it also helps to keep your backpack dry.

Waterproof backpack

A backpack is important for carrying your binoculars, gorilla permits. Camera, Lunch box, snacks and water bottle, but the waterproof one is handy.

First aid Kit

Your first aid kit must contain bandages, liniment for muscle strains during trekking, anti-malarial drugs, allergy/altitude sickness remedies, cold medication, anti-septic or anti-bacterial cream to rub on mosquito bites as well as scratches during trekking, pain killers and anti-diarrhea medication among others.

A good insect repellent

There are few mosquitoes in Ruhija sector, given the high altitude of the region but it wouldn’t hurt to carry in case of insect bites during trekking. Repellents with natural flavors such as lemon grass and eucalyptus are more recommended that DEET-based products.

A good non-flash camera

A good camera with enough memory space, extra batteries because there is no guarantee on how long treks take before the mountain gorillas are found and extra lenses are very important for capturing every memorable moment, awe-inspiring views and many others. Other gadgets are smart phones, laptops and many others.

Warm sweater

A warm sweater is very crucial because Ruhija is the coldest region in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, especially mornings and evenings. At some point especially the rainy season, a sweater, bedcover, blanket and hot water bottle may not be enough because the coldness becomes unbearable.

Pair/s of short and casual dresses should also be included on your packing list for relaxation within the Lodge or undertaking evening community walks.

Toiletries

What is a packing list without toiletries such as tooth brush, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, lip gloss/lip balm, lotion, deodorant, shampoo, wipes, biodegradable toilet paper, sanitary towels for female travelers, shavers and face towels among others.