Clothing

• Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers (neutral colors): Olive, khaki, and brown blend in and protect against stinging nettles, thorns, and insects. Avoid bright colors and black or dark blue, which attract tsetse flies.
• Moisture-wicking base layers: Trails are steep and humid, so quick-drying fabric keeps you comfortable.
• Light waterproof jacket or poncho: Rain can arrive at any time in the montane forest, even in the dry season.
• Warm fleece or light down jacket: Mornings and evenings in Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi are cold, often under 10°C at altitude.
• Wide-brimmed hat: Shields you from sun and drizzle.

Footwear

• Broken-in waterproof hiking boots with ankle support: Terrain is muddy, slippery, and steep. Boots you have already worn on trails prevent blisters.
• Gaiters: Keep mud, leeches, and biting ants out of your boots and trouser legs.
• Spare socks: Wool or synthetic hiking socks, plus a dry pair for the vehicle ride back.

Gear for the Trek

• Gardening or leather gloves: Handy for grabbing vines and branches, and they protect against nettles and thorns.
• Daypack (20-30L) with a rain cover or dry bag: Holds water, snacks, and your camera. Waterproofing matters for electronics.
• Trekking pole or walking stick: Often available from park porters, but bringing your own helps on slippery descents.
• Reusable water bottle (1-2L): Bring plenty; treks last from one to six hours or more.
• Packed lunch and energy snacks: Lodges usually prepare lunch boxes; nuts and energy bars help on longer treks.

Health and Safety

• Insect repellent and sunscreen: Apply repellent in the evening for mosquitoes, and sunscreen despite the cloud cover.
• Personal first-aid kit: Include blister plasters, antihistamines, pain relievers, and any prescription medication.
• Anti-malarial tablets and yellow fever certificate: Consult a travel clinic beforehand; Uganda requires proof of yellow fever vaccination.
• Face masks: Gorillas are susceptible to human illnesses, and rangers require masks within close range. Never trek if you feel unwell.
• Hand sanitizer: Useful before and after the trek.

Photography and Electronics

• Camera with a zoom lens (or a good smartphone): Low light under the canopy means a fast lens or high-ISO capability helps. Flash is not allowed.
• Extra batteries and memory cards: Cold weather drains batteries quickly.
• Power bank and universal adapter: Both countries use Type G and Type C/D-style sockets, so bring a flexible adapter.
• Binoculars: Great for spotting chimpanzees and birds in the canopy, especially in Kibale, Budongo, or Nyungwe.

Documents and Money

• Passport, gorilla/chimpanzee permits, and vaccination records: Keep them in a waterproof pouch.
• Cash in small denominations (USD and local currency): For tipping guides, porters, and trackers, and for craft purchases.

Extras

• Porter hire: Hiring a local porter (about US$15-20) supports the community and lightens your load.
• Light scarf or buff: Keeps out dust and insects.
• Trash bag: Pack out all litter.

Tip: Pack light, and use a soft duffel bag rather than a hard-shell suitcase, which is easier on small safari vehicles and domestic flights.