What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes you into the mountain forests of Volcanoes National Park, where conditions can change quickly. One moment you may be walking through a cool, comfortable section of forest, and the next you could be climbing a muddy slope or moving through wet vegetation.
That is why what to wear for gorilla trekking in Rwanda matters more than simply choosing clothes that look good for safari photographs. Your clothing should keep you comfortable, protect you from rain, mud, insects and vegetation, and allow you to move easily for several hours.
You do not need expensive specialist hiking gear. With the right combination of practical clothing and sturdy footwear, you can be well prepared for the trek.
Wear Long Trousers
Long trousers are one of the most useful things to wear on a Rwanda gorilla trek.
The forest can have thick vegetation, branches and plants along the trails. Long trousers provide protection for your legs while you are moving through the vegetation and climbing uneven terrain.
Choose lightweight but durable trousers that allow you to bend, walk and climb comfortably. Avoid jeans if possible. They can become heavy and uncomfortable when wet and take much longer to dry.
Trekking trousers or lightweight outdoor trousers are a better choice.
Choose a Long-Sleeved Shirt
A long-sleeved shirt gives you another layer of protection while trekking through the forest.
It can protect your arms from vegetation, insects and cool mountain air. Lightweight, breathable material is ideal because you may become warm while climbing.
You can also wear a comfortable T-shirt underneath and remove the outer layer if you become too warm.
Wear a Waterproof Jacket
Rain is one of the things you should always be prepared for in the mountains.
Even when the morning starts out dry, conditions can change while you are inside the forest. A lightweight waterproof or rain jacket can keep you dry without taking up much space in your daypack.
A waterproof jacket is particularly useful because you may still have several hours of hiking ahead of you after the rain begins.
For more information about the physical demands of the trek, see our guide to [How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?].
Sturdy Hiking Shoes Are Essential
Your footwear is probably the most important part of your trekking outfit.
The trails around Volcanoes National Park can be steep, muddy and uneven. A pair of comfortable hiking boots or sturdy hiking shoes with good grip will give you better stability than ordinary trainers.
Water-resistant footwear is useful, but good traction is just as important. Make sure your shoes are already broken in before your safari. Wearing brand-new boots on a long trek can leave you with painful blisters.
Wear comfortable hiking socks that fit well and do not slide down while walking.
Consider Gaiters
Gaiters are not absolutely essential, but they can be very useful during a gorilla trek.
They cover the area between your shoes and trousers and help keep mud, water and vegetation from getting inside your footwear. They can also provide some protection when walking through wet vegetation.
If you are travelling during a wetter period, gaiters are worth adding to your trekking gear.
Bring Gloves
A lightweight pair of gardening or trekking gloves can be surprisingly useful.
You may need to hold onto vegetation or branches when moving across steep sections of the trail. Gloves can also protect your hands from thorny plants, rough vegetation and mud.
They do not need to be expensive. A comfortable pair that allows you to move your fingers easily is enough.
Dress in Layers
Mountain weather is not always predictable, so dressing in layers gives you more flexibility.
You can start the morning wearing a lightweight base layer and an additional warm layer. As you begin hiking and your body warms up, you can remove a layer and put it back on when the temperature drops.
A fleece or lightweight sweater can be useful, especially in the early morning.
Avoid wearing one very heavy jacket throughout the trek. You may find yourself carrying it once you become warm.
What Should You Avoid Wearing?
Some clothes may seem comfortable for a normal holiday but are not ideal for gorilla trekking.
Avoid:
- Jeans, especially in wet conditions
- Open-toed sandals
- Smooth-soled shoes with little grip
- Very short trousers or shorts
- Heavy cotton clothing that stays wet
- Brand-new hiking boots
- Loose accessories that can easily catch on vegetation
- Excessively heavy clothing
The aim is to stay protected without carrying unnecessary weight.
What About Colors?
There is no need to buy a completely new safari wardrobe just for gorilla trekking.
Neutral, natural colors such as brown, green, grey and khaki are practical choices for walking in the forest. More importantly, choose clothes that are comfortable and suitable for hiking.
You should also remember that your clothing may get muddy. Wear something you will not be upset about getting dirty.
Should You Wear Warm Clothes?
Rwanda has a tropical climate, but Volcanoes National Park is at high elevation, so the mountain environment can feel cool, particularly in the morning.
A lightweight fleece, sweater or warm layer can therefore be useful.
At the same time, you should not overdress. Once you begin walking uphill, you may become warm and start sweating.
Layers are the easiest solution because you can adjust your clothing as conditions change.
What Should You Wear When It Rains?
If rain starts during the trek, your waterproof layer becomes particularly important.
A lightweight rain jacket is the minimum. Waterproof trousers can also be useful if rain is expected or if you are trekking during a particularly wet period.
Keep your phone, camera and other sensitive equipment inside waterproof bags or dry bags within your backpack. Even a waterproof jacket does not necessarily protect everything you are carrying.
Remember that muddy conditions are normal. Do not let the possibility of getting dirty stop you from enjoying the experience.
Your Clothing Should Support the Trek
The best gorilla trekking outfit is not necessarily the most expensive one. It is the one that allows you to walk comfortably, stay protected from the elements and concentrate on the experience rather than your clothes.
Think in terms of layers: comfortable trousers, a breathable long-sleeved top, a warm layer, a waterproof jacket and sturdy hiking shoes. Add gloves and gaiters if you think you will benefit from the extra protection.
And remember that clothing is only part of your preparation. Water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera equipment and other essentials also need a place in your daypack.
For the complete checklist, continue to our guide on [What to Pack for Rwanda Gorilla Trekking].
Prepare for Comfort, Not Fashion
Gorilla trekking is one of those experiences where practical clothing makes a real difference. You will be walking through a beautiful but sometimes challenging mountain environment, and the weather may not behave exactly as expected.
Come prepared for rain, mud, cool temperatures and a few hours on your feet. Wear comfortable shoes, dress in layers and choose clothing that can handle getting dirty.
Once you are standing in the forest watching a mountain gorilla nearby, you will probably care much less about whether your trousers are muddy.
