Gorilla trekking clothes have one job: keep you dry, protected from nettles and on your feet in the mud. You don't need expensive technical gear. You do need the right basics.
What to wear
- Waterproof hiking boots, broken in, with ankle support and deep grip. The most important item on this list.
- Long trousers in a quick-drying fabric. Not jeans — they're heavy when wet.
- Gaiters, or tuck your trousers into long socks: keeps out mud, ants and nettles.
- Long-sleeved shirt, lightweight. Nettles sting through thin fabric, so a sturdier weave is better.
- Fleece or warm layer for the cold early morning.
- Waterproof jacket, whatever the season.
- Gardening gloves: for grabbing branches and nettles.
- Hat for sun or rain.
What colour?
Muted forest colours — green, olive, brown, khaki, grey. Avoid bright colours and pure white (which will not stay white). There's no need to buy camouflage.
In your daypack
- Passport and a copy of your gorilla permit
- 1.5–2 litres of water
- Snacks and a packed lunch (eaten away from the gorillas)
- Rain cover for your bag, or a dry bag inside it
- Face mask
- Hand sanitiser and tissues
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Small first-aid kit, plasters for blisters, any personal medication
- Cash in small US dollar or Rwandan franc notes for porter and tips
Camera kit
- Camera body that handles high ISO well — the forest is dark.
- Zoom lens around 24–105 mm or 70–200 mm. Gorillas are often closer than you expect; a very long telephoto is rarely needed.
- Spare batteries and cards. You won't have time to change much, so prepare.
- Rain cover for camera.
- Phone: modern phones take excellent gorilla photos in good light.
No tripods or selfie sticks with the gorillas, and no flash. More in gorilla photography tips.
What to leave behind
- Single-use plastic bags (banned in Rwanda)
- Bright or white clothing
- Drones (strictly controlled in Rwanda and prohibited in the park without authorisation)
- Heavy bags and anything you don't want to get muddy
- Strong perfume or aftershave
Printable checklist
| Wear | Carry | Leave at the lodge |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking boots | Passport & permit | Suitcase |
| Long trousers + gaiters | Water 1.5–2 L | Bright clothes |
| Long-sleeved top | Snacks / lunch | Drone |
| Fleece | Rain cover / dry bag | Plastic bags |
| Rain jacket | Mask, sanitiser | Perfume |
| Gloves, hat | Camera, spare battery | Valuables you don't need |
| Small notes for tips |
Packing questions
What should I wear for gorilla trekking?
Long trousers tucked into socks or gaiters, a long-sleeved top, a waterproof jacket, broken-in waterproof hiking boots and gardening gloves. Muted greens, browns and khaki are best.
Do I need gloves for gorilla trekking?
Yes — cheap gardening gloves protect your hands from stinging nettles and thorns when you grab vegetation for balance.
Can I rent gear at the park?
Walking sticks are provided free at the trailhead, and some lodges lend rain jackets, gaiters or boots. Don't rely on it — bring your own essentials.
Is there a weight limit for bags?
No formal limit, but keep it light: a small daypack with water, snacks, rain gear and camera is all you need. Your porter will carry it.
Should I bring plastic bags to Rwanda?
No. Rwanda banned single-use plastic bags in 2008, and they may be confiscated at the airport. Use dry bags or reusable pouches instead.
