What to Wear on Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris?

What to Wear on Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris?

Here’s What to Wear on Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris. Let’s learn about the ultimate guide on what to wear for Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris. From the best boots to rain gear essentials, ensure you’re prepared for an unforgettable adventure with our expert tips.

Why Choose Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris?

Choosing Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that brings you face-to-face with majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat inside Volcanoes National Park. But what should you wear to ensure comfort and safety during this thrilling experience? In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about dressing for success on your Rwanda gorilla trekking safari. From the right footwear to layering techniques, we’ve got you covered!

Dressing for Success: The Basics of Gorilla Trekking Attire

When preparing for a gorilla trekking safari, the right attire is crucial. You’ll be navigating through dense forests, muddy trails, and varying weather conditions. Start with moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat at bay. Opt for long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect against insects and thorny vegetation. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are your best bet to stay comfortable throughout the trek.


Choosing the right clothing can make a significant difference in your Rwanda gorilla trekking safari experience. Moisture-wicking base layers are essential as they help to keep sweat away from your skin, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants are not just for warmth; they also protect you from insect bites and scratches from thorny bushes. Look for fabrics that are lightweight and breathable, such as synthetic materials or merino wool, which are excellent at regulating body temperature and drying quickly.


It’s also important to consider the fit of your clothing. Loose-fitting clothes can get caught on branches, while tight-fitting clothes might restrict movement. Aim for a comfortable fit that allows for a full range of motion. Additionally, consider clothing with built-in UV protection to shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

Footwear Fundamentals: Choosing the Right Boots for Muddy Trails

When on Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris, footwear can make or break your trekking experience. Invest in sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support. The gorilla trekking trails can be slippery and uneven, so a solid grip is essential. Break in your shoes before the trip to avoid blisters. Pair them with moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable.


When it comes to Rwanda gorilla trekking, your choice of footwear is paramount. The terrain in Volcanoes National Park can be challenging, with muddy trails, steep inclines, and uneven ground. Therefore, a pair of sturdies, and waterproof hiking boots is a must. Look for boots with good ankle support to prevent sprains and a solid grip to navigate slippery surfaces.


You are breaking in your boots before the trek is crucial. New boots can cause blisters and discomfort, so wear them on a few hikes to ensure they fit well and are comfortable. Pair your boots with moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and reduce the risk of blisters. Consider bringing an extra pair of socks in case your feet get wet.

Layering Like a Pro: Adapting to Changing Mountain Weather

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park’s weather can be unpredictable, so layering is key. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. This system allows you to adjust your clothing as the temperature changes. Don’t forget a lightweight, packable jacket for sudden rain showers.


Layering is an essential strategy for staying comfortable during your Rwanda gorilla trekking safari. The weather in Volcanoes National Park can change rapidly, so being able to add or remove layers is crucial. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. This layer should be snug but not too tight, allowing for freedom of movement.


Next, add an insulating mid-layer, such as a fleece or down jacket, to provide warmth. This layer should be easy to put on and take off as needed. Finally, top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against rain and wind. Look for jackets with ventilation options to prevent overheating.


A lightweight, packable jacket is also a good idea for sudden rain showers. This jacket should be easy to carry in your backpack and quick to put on when needed. Remember, the goal is to stay dry and comfortable, so choose layers that work well together and can be adjusted as the weather changes.

Pants and Shirts: Comfort Meets Practicality in Volcanoes National Park

When going for Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris, choose durable, quick-drying pants and shirts for your trek. Convertible pants that can be zipped off into shorts are a versatile option. Look for shirts with ventilation features to keep cool. Avoid cotton as it retains moisture and takes longer to dry. Instead, opt for synthetic or merino wool fabrics.


When selecting pants and shirts for your Rwanda gorilla trekking safari, comfort and practicality should be your top priorities. Durable, quick-drying fabrics are essential, as you’ll likely encounter wet and muddy conditions. Convertible pants that can be zipped off into shorts offer versatility, allowing you to adjust to changing temperatures.


Shirts with ventilation features, such as mesh panels or zippered vents, can help keep you cool during strenuous hikes. Avoid cotton clothing, as it retains moisture and takes longer to dry, which can lead to discomfort and chafing. Instead, opt for synthetic fabrics or merino wool, which are excellent at wicking moisture and drying quickly.


Consider the fit and functionality of your clothing. Pants with multiple pockets can be useful for carrying small items, while shirts with roll-up sleeves offer flexibility. Look for clothing with reinforced seams and durable construction to withstand the rigours of the trek.

Rain Gear Essentials: Staying Dry inside Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is often misty and wet, so rain gear is a must. A high-quality, breathable rain jacket and rain pants will keep you dry without causing you to overheat. Pack a poncho for extra protection and to cover your backpack. Waterproof your gear with dry bags or rain covers to protect your belongings.


Rain gear is an essential part of your Rwanda gorilla trekking attire. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is known for its misty and wet conditions, so staying dry is crucial for your comfort and safety. A high-quality, breathable rain jacket and rain pants are your best defence against the elements. Look for gear that is lightweight and packable, so you can easily carry it in your backpack.


A poncho can provide extra protection and can be used to cover your backpack, keeping your belongings dry. Waterproof your gear with dry bags or rain covers to protect your electronics, clothing, and other essentials. Remember, staying dry is not just about comfort; it’s also about preventing hypothermia and other weather-related issues.

Gloves, Hats, and Socks for gorilla trekking: Must Have Accessories

Accessories can enhance your comfort and protection. Lightweight gloves can protect your hands from thorny plants and provide warmth. A wide-brimmed hat or cap will shield you from the sun and rain. Choose moisture-wicking, cushioned socks to prevent blisters and keep your feet dry.


Accessories play a crucial role in ensuring your comfort and protection during Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris. Lightweight gloves can protect your hands from thorny plants and provide warmth in cooler temperatures. Look for gloves that are durable and offer a good grip, as you’ll be using your hands to navigate the terrain.


A wide-brimmed hat or cap is essential for shielding your face and neck from the sun and rain. Choose a hat with a chin strap to keep it secure in windy conditions. Moisture-wicking, cushioned socks are also important for preventing blisters and keeping your feet dry. Consider bringing an extra pair of socks in case your feet get wet.

Camouflage Considerations: What Colors to Wear (and Avoid)

When on Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes National Park, blending in with the environment is beneficial. Opt for neutral, earthy tones like greens, browns, and khakis. Avoid bright colors and patterns that can attract insects or disturb wildlife. Camouflage clothing is not necessary but sticking to muted colors helps you stay inconspicuous.


Choosing the right colors for your gorilla trekking attire can enhance your experience and minimize your impact on the environment. Neutral, earthy tones like greens, browns, and khakis are ideal for blending in with the jungle surroundings. These colors are less likely to attract insects and will help you stay inconspicuous to the wildlife.


Bright colors and patterns should be avoided, as they can disturb the animals and make you more noticeable. While camouflage clothing is not necessary, sticking to muted colors is a good practice. Remember, the goal is to observe the mountain gorillas without causing them any stress or disturbance

Packing Smart: Balancing Comfort and Baggage Limits

Packing light is essential for a comfortable gorilla trek. Prioritize multi-functional clothing items and limit the number of extras. Use compression bags to save space and keep your gear organized. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.


Packing smart is key to a successful Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris. Balancing comfort and baggage limits can be challenging, but with careful planning, you can ensure you have everything you need without overpacking. Prioritize multi-functional clothing items that can be used in various situations. For example, convertible pants that can be zipped off into shorts or a jacket that doubles as a raincoat.


Use compression bags to save space and keep your gear organized. These bags can help you fit more items into your backpack and make it easier to find what you need. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. These items are crucial for your comfort and safety during the trek.

Wearables and Gadgets for Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris

Enhance your Rwanda gorilla trekking safari experience with the right gadgets. A GPS watch can help you navigate the trails, while a compact camera or smartphone will capture unforgettable moments. Consider a portable charger to keep your devices powered.


Wearable tech-like fitness trackers can monitor your activity and health during the trek.

Incorporating technology into your Rwanda gorilla trekking safari adventure can enhance your experience.

Booking Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1500 per person for foreign non-residents, $500 for foreign residents and $200 for East African citizens. The permit fee includes park entry, a guided trek, and one hour with a gorilla family. This fee contributes to conservation efforts and community development projects, ensuring the protection of these endangered animals and their habitats. Rwanda Development Board prints about 96 permits every day, so it’s wise that you book your permit early. Contact Us to get your gorilla trekking permit today.

Is Gorilla Trekking Safe in Rwanda?

Yes, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is generally safe when conducted with the guidance of experienced professionals. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) enforces strict rules to ensure the safety of both visitors and mountain gorillas. These include maintaining a minimum distance from the gorillas, limiting the number of visitors per group, and prohibiting sick individuals from participating in the trek.

Gorilla Trekking rules and regulations

Mountain gorillas are an endangered species that were almost extinct due to constant poaching from the locals, but with the coming and conservation ideas of the Rwanda Development Board, gorillas survived. With the help of the government of Rwanda, some rules have been set up to continue conserving the natural habitat of the Mountain gorillas. The rules are to be followed by all who intend to go for a gorilla trek for your safety and the safety of the gorillas, and these include:

  • Rwanda’s gorilla trekking age limit is 15 years, and no one below that age will be allowed to trek the gorillas.
  • Feeding of the Mountain gorillas is prohibited.
  • After locating the gorillas, the trekkers are allowed a maximum of an hour with the gorillas studying their behavioral patterns and taking photos and videos.
  • You need to keep a distance of about 7 to 10 meters away from the gorillas.
  • Gorillas are not used to flash photography, so make sure that you turn your camera flash off before taking photos.
  • A maximum of 8 people is allowed to trek the assigned gorilla families.
  • Holes 30 cm deep are to be dug and covered for hikers planning on using the toilet because there are no toilets within the national park.
  • Avoid littering the national park with rubbish by leaving it the way you found it.
  • Do not in any way get close to the gorillas to avoid passing on infections in case you are sick.
  • No one can eat, smoke, or drink with the gorillas.
  • Avoid staring at the gorillas in the eye, don’t put on sunglasses, and in cases where the gorillas approach you, follow the instructions given to you by the guides.


For more information on Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris, contact our team through our website you can also check out our reviews on Trip Advisor to make the right decision.

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