What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
What you wear for gorilla trekking in Uganda can make a surprisingly big difference to your experience. You will be walking through thick forest, climbing and descending steep sections, dealing with wet vegetation and sometimes moving through muddy trails. The weather can also change quickly, especially in the highland forests of southwestern Uganda.
You do not need expensive specialist equipment, but you do need comfortable, practical clothing that can handle rain, mud, insects and rough vegetation. The goal is simple: stay dry, protect yourself and remain comfortable enough to enjoy the trek.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
A good pair of hiking boots should be at the top of your list.
The trails around Bwindi and Mgahinga can be uneven, muddy and slippery. You may be walking over rocks, roots and steep slopes, so shoes with good ankle support and strong grip are much better than ordinary trainers.
Choose boots that you have already worn before your safari. Wearing brand-new boots for the first time on the trekking day is a recipe for blisters.
It is also worth choosing waterproof or water-resistant boots. Even when the morning starts dry, rain can arrive unexpectedly in the forest.
Choose Long Trousers
Long trousers are much more suitable than shorts for gorilla trekking.
The forest can be dense, and you may brush against branches, vines and other vegetation as you follow the trackers. Long trousers help protect your legs from scratches, insects and plants.
Lightweight hiking trousers are a good choice because they allow you to move easily without making you feel too hot. Avoid very tight jeans or heavy clothing that becomes uncomfortable when wet.
Tucking your trousers into your socks or boots can also provide extra protection from insects and vegetation.
Wear a Long-Sleeved Shirt
A long-sleeved shirt is another useful layer for the forest.
It protects your arms from scratches and insects while giving you some protection from the sun. A lightweight, breathable hiking shirt works well because you can still stay relatively cool while covered.
Avoid wearing your best clothes. Gorilla trekking is one of those activities where getting muddy is completely normal.
Don’t Forget Your Gloves
Gloves are not compulsory, but many travellers find them extremely useful.
During some parts of the trek, you may need to hold branches or vegetation for balance, particularly when climbing steep or slippery sections. Lightweight gardening or hiking gloves can protect your hands from thorns, rough branches and insects.
They are also useful when the vegetation is wet.
For a small item, gloves can make the trek considerably more comfortable.
Carry Rain Protection
Rain is something you should always be prepared for when trekking in Uganda’s mountain forests.
A lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho is ideal. A jacket can protect your upper body while still allowing you to move freely, while a poncho can provide additional coverage for your backpack.
You do not necessarily need to wear your rain jacket from the beginning. Keep it somewhere accessible so you can put it on quickly if the weather changes.
A waterproof cover for your backpack is also a good idea, especially if you are carrying a camera, phone or other electronics.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can change during the day, particularly at higher elevations.
Instead of wearing one thick item, it is usually better to dress in layers. You can start with a comfortable base layer, add a light fleece or sweater if it is cool, and remove a layer once you begin walking and warm up.
This approach is much more practical than carrying one heavy jacket throughout the trek.
What About Socks?
Good socks are easy to overlook, but they can make your feet much happier.
Choose comfortable hiking socks that help manage moisture and reduce friction. Carrying an extra pair is worthwhile, particularly if you are trekking during a wet period.
If your feet get wet during the trek, having a dry pair waiting at your accommodation can feel like a luxury.
What Colours Should You Wear?
Neutral and natural colours are generally a good choice for a forest trek.
Khaki, brown, green, grey and other muted colours work well. There is no need to obsess over this, but very bright clothing can be less practical in a wildlife environment.
The more important consideration is comfort and protection rather than trying to match the forest.
What Should You Avoid Wearing?
There are a few things better left behind.
Avoid open sandals, flip-flops and smooth-soled shoes. They offer little protection and can become dangerous on muddy or uneven trails.
Short skirts, shorts and very thin clothing are also not ideal because of the vegetation and insects.
You should also avoid carrying too many unnecessary items. A heavy backpack will become increasingly noticeable after several hours of walking.
If you want a complete list of everything you should take with you, check our What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking guide.
Does Clothing Affect How Difficult the Trek Feels?
Definitely.
Imagine trying to climb a muddy hillside in slippery trainers, tight jeans and a heavy jacket. Even a reasonably fit person would struggle.
The right clothing allows you to concentrate on the experience instead of constantly worrying about wet feet, scratches or uncomfortable clothes.
Gorilla trekking can already be physically demanding because of the hills, altitude and unpredictable forest trails. Our guide on How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking? explains what you can expect and how to prepare.
What Should You Wear Under Your Backpack?
A comfortable backpack is useful for carrying water, snacks, rain protection and personal items. Wear it over clothing that allows your shoulders and back to breathe.
Avoid overpacking. You will probably appreciate carrying a lightweight bag much more after several hours on the trail.
If you are carrying camera equipment, protect it carefully from rain and moisture.
Dressing for Bwindi Gorilla Trekking
If you are trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, be prepared for thick vegetation, steep terrain and potentially wet conditions.
Bwindi has several trekking sectors, and the exact conditions can vary depending on where your trek takes place. This is another reason why sturdy footwear and rain protection are so important.
Our Bwindi Gorilla Trekking guide covers the different sectors and what you can expect when planning your trek there.
A Simple Gorilla Trekking Outfit
If you are wondering what a practical trekking outfit actually looks like, keep it simple:
- Comfortable hiking boots
- Long hiking trousers
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirt
- Moisture-wicking T-shirt or base layer
- Lightweight fleece or sweater
- Waterproof jacket or poncho
- Comfortable hiking socks
- Lightweight gloves
- Hat or cap
- Small, comfortable backpack
You don’t have to look like a professional mountaineer. You just need clothing that is comfortable, protective and suitable for a few hours in a mountain forest.
Final Tips Before Your Trek
Wear your hiking boots before travelling so your feet are already used to them. Check the weather before leaving your accommodation, but still carry rain protection even if the forecast looks good.
Keep your waterproof jacket and other important items where you can reach them easily. And most importantly, don’t dress for photographs alone. Dress for the forest.
You may get dirty. Your boots may become muddy. Your trousers may get wet. That’s all part of the experience.
When you finally reach the gorillas, you probably won’t care much about the mud on your clothes anyway.
Ready to experience the mountain gorillas of Uganda? Go To Africa Safaris can help you plan your gorilla trekking adventure, including permits, accommodation, transport and the right itinerary for your trip. Start planning your Uganda gorilla safari here.
