What to Pack for Chimpanzee Trekking
Knowing what to pack for chimpanzee trekking can make your day in the forest much easier. You may spend several hours walking through thick vegetation, climbing gentle slopes and dealing with changing weather, so it helps to carry the things you will actually need.
You don’t need to bring your entire suitcase into the forest. A small, comfortable daypack with a few useful items is usually enough.
Here is what I recommend having with you before heading out for your chimpanzee trek in Uganda.
Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Start with your feet.
Chimpanzee trekking takes place on natural forest trails, and the ground can be muddy, slippery or uneven. You may also have to walk over exposed roots and small slopes while following the chimpanzees.
A comfortable pair of hiking shoes or boots with good grip is therefore one of the most important things to pack.
If you are visiting during the rainy season, water-resistant shoes are especially useful. But don’t worry if your shoes get muddy. That’s part of walking through a rainforest.
Make sure you have worn your shoes before the trek. A brand-new pair can cause blisters when you are several kilometres into the forest.
Long Trousers and a Long-Sleeved Shirt
Your clothes should protect you rather than simply look good for photographs.
Long trousers help protect your legs from branches, insects and plants along the trails. A lightweight long-sleeved shirt provides similar protection for your arms.
Choose breathable clothing because the forest can become warm and humid as you walk.
If you want more advice on clothing, our What to Wear guide goes into more detail about trousers, shirts, footwear and rain protection.
Rain Jacket or Poncho
Uganda’s forests receive rain throughout the year, and weather can change while you are inside Kibale Forest.
A lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho is therefore worth carrying even when the morning starts out completely dry.
A rain jacket can also help keep you warm if you get caught in a heavier shower.
If you are carrying a camera or phone, make sure those are protected too. A waterproof bag or dry bag can save your equipment from an unexpected downpour.
Drinking Water
You will be walking for several hours, so take enough drinking water with you.
A reusable water bottle is convenient and can be refilled before you enter the forest. Staying hydrated is particularly important when the weather is warm and you are walking continuously.
Don’t wait until you feel extremely thirsty before drinking. Take small amounts regularly throughout the trek.
Insect Repellent
You are entering a forest filled with insects, so insect repellent is useful.
Apply it before starting your trek and carry a small amount in your daypack if you need to reapply later.
Wearing long trousers and long sleeves also gives you an extra layer of protection.
Sunscreen and a Hat
Even though much of the trek takes place under the forest canopy, you can still be exposed to sunlight, particularly when walking through open sections or while travelling to and from the forest.
Pack sunscreen and apply it before leaving your accommodation.
A lightweight hat is also useful, especially during the warmer parts of the day.
Snacks
Chimpanzee trekking can take longer than expected, depending on where the chimpanzees are and how much walking is involved.
A small snack can be useful if you become hungry during the trek. Something simple such as nuts, a cereal bar or fruit is easy to carry.
Just remember to follow your guide’s instructions about eating in the forest and never leave food wrappers or other rubbish behind.
The forest is the animals’ home, so keeping it clean is part of being a responsible visitor.
Camera, Phone and Binoculars
You will probably want to take photographs, so bring your camera or phone if you have one.
A camera with a good zoom can be particularly useful because chimpanzees may be high in the trees or further away from the trail.
Binoculars are also worth carrying if you have them. They can help you see chimpanzees and birds that are difficult to view clearly with the naked eye.
Keep your electronics protected from rain, especially during the wetter months.
Small Backpack
A small daypack is all you really need.
Choose one that is comfortable and doesn’t become too heavy once you add water, rain gear and your other essentials.
Avoid carrying a large suitcase or unnecessary items into the forest. You want to have your hands as free as possible while walking.
A backpack with waterproof protection is even better, especially if rain is expected.
Walking Stick
A walking stick is not essential for everyone, but it can be helpful on muddy or uneven trails.
Some trekking guides can provide support depending on the situation, but if you normally use a walking stick when hiking, bring one that you are comfortable with.
It can be particularly useful during the rainy season when trails become slippery.
What You Don’t Need to Pack
It is easy to overpack for a chimpanzee trek.
You don’t need heavy luggage, lots of clothing or expensive equipment. Leave your large bags at your accommodation and carry only what you need for the forest.
The goal is to keep your daypack light enough that you can comfortably carry it for several hours.
A Simple Chimpanzee Trekking Checklist
Before leaving your accommodation, check that you have:
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
- Long trousers
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
- Drinking water
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Small snacks
- Camera or phone
- Binoculars, if available
- Small backpack
- Walking stick, if needed
- Waterproof bag for electronics
You can leave the rest behind.
Kibale Forest is a beautiful place to explore, but remember that you are entering a natural forest rather than a controlled tourist attraction. Trails can be muddy, rain can come unexpectedly and the chimpanzees will not always be exactly where you expect them to be.
That unpredictability is part of what makes the experience special. You are there to follow the animals at their own pace and see them behaving naturally in their home.
