What to pack on safari to Africa?
What to pack on safari to Africa? Travelers can bring essential supplies for their gorilla-tracking-trekking safari in Rwanda or Uganda with the help of this gorilla trekking packing list. Furthermore, one of the most fascinating animal experiences that is exclusive to Africa is seeing gorillas in the wild. Because more and more people are traveling to Uganda and Rwanda to witness these rare gorillas, the experience is worthwhile.
Planning to see mountain gorillas in Africa may feel intimidating due to the numerous questions you may have.
The most frequently asked question concerns what you will need to bring with you.
Essential Equipment for Gorilla Trekking;
Gorilla Permits
Since gorilla trekking is Uganda Safaris’ primary highlight activity, a gorilla permit is crucial to the country’s tourism industry. The country receives thousands of visitors each year, and the number of visitors is growing. The endangered mountain gorillas’ natural habitat can only be accessed or entered by those who possess a gorilla permit. Each day, only a certain number of gorilla permits are granted, and they need to be acquired in advance.
For several months, as a result, the permits are sold out. Uganda gorilla permits are available for purchase directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority Offices, which is the government agency that issues them. The Rwanda Development Board, or “RDB,” is the place to obtain gorilla permits in Rwanda. Alternatively, you can purchase a gorilla permit with the assistance of a trustworthy tour operator, who will make the necessary reservations for you so that everything is ready for your gorilla trekking safari when you arrive.
A rain jacket
Rainfall is possible at any time of day during the year on Safari because the gorilla trekking adventure is conducted in a rainforest. Two seasonal months—June to September and December to March—will help you remember the year-end increase. Those who visit the park during the dry season must bring warm clothing, such as a poncho or light jacket.
Furthermore, rain can be so intense that it would soak you through in less than ten minutes. You may prevent yourself and your belongings from becoming soaked by the rain by keeping your poncho or rain jacket with you.
Hiking Boots
In addition to your gorilla trekking safari, we advise you to bring appropriate hiking boots, which are the most practical hiking necessary, particularly on the steep slopes of dense rainforests. Your hiking shoes should be well-worn, which ensures a great fit.
Warm sweater
Mountain gorillas inhabit high-altitude regions with temperatures that are closer to freezing at night and in the morning.
Early in the morning, before the sun rises, gorilla trekking adventures begin when it is still cool. Keep in mind that the rainforest where mountain gorillas reside means that rain can fall at any time, making the place cold. Keeping your cozy sweater on hand is a great way to cope with the weather.
shirts with long sleeves
Trekking with gorillas takes place on heavily forested paths that are teeming with various vegetation and hazardous insects. You can reduce the likelihood of scratches and insect bites by wearing long-sleeved shirts or blouses.
Long trousers or pants
It’s a terrific idea to wear long pants, trouser, or long-sleeved shirts for gorilla trekking. Tucking trousers into cotton long stockings can help prevent ants from scuttling into your legs.
Slip-on Socks
Red ants and other crawling insects can’t get inside your pants thanks to these useful gadgets. Packing a pair of long socks that can be tucked in is a smart idea. Things to bring on an African safari?
Outside and Garden Gloves
Wearing gloves can help protect you from injuries, potentially harmful plants and roots, and broken branches during your gorilla journey.
Those with skin sensitivity or allergies should read on. In a short time, it is not recommended to come into direct contact with thousands of uncommon plants.
Water is used for drinking.
It takes a lot of physical fitness and energy to go gorilla trekking, and the energy required for hiking will soon leave you thirsty. In order to stay hydrated and stay alive, you should always have adequate bottled water on hand.
Hat for the Sun
Additionally, a hat with a wide brim is the best option for shielding your head and neck from the intense African sun. The way a baseball cap works is by leaving the neck exposed.
In order to assist the residents directly and as keepsakes, many tourists decide to purchase safari hats from the neighborhood stores close to the parks.
Sunscreen
Bring some sunscreen with you on the safari to shield your skin from the sun’s rays. Sunburn can result from the relentless rays of the sun. Please take note that sunscreen is not readily available in the tiny towns close to the gorilla parks, therefore we recommend bringing it with you.
Small Backpack
It is advised to bring a lightweight backpack to ensure the safety of any vital documents or personnel items you may be carrying throughout the visit.
The following items are recommended for gorilla trekking packing lists: camera, insect repellent, binoculars, sunglasses, toiletries, snacks, gaiters, porter fees, and a packed lunch from the lodge. This is because gorilla trekking is unpredictable and can take anywhere from three to seven hours, depending on the movements of the gorillas.
