TOP TIPS WHEN PACKING FOR GORILLA TREKKING

1. Purchase good quality, ethical-leather or heavy canvas gardening gloves. You will be grabbing onto vines for support and encountering many varieties of plants, some of which have thorns or stinging properties.
2. Brightly-coloured clothing is to be avoided. The aim is to blend into your surroundings and be as unobtrusive as possible to the gorillas. Blue and black clothing is also to be avoided as they can attract insects such as tsetse flies.
3. Buy and wear-in a pair of sturdy hiking boots well in advance to avoid blisters while trekking. You will be traversing muddy and often slippery terrain, so you will need boots that provide ankle support and protection from plants and insects.
4. Remember, when you travel with Mahlatini, you will receive a special 10% discount at The Safari Store (remember to use your unique discount code!) Perfect for investing in quality items that will serve you again-and-again on safari adventures.

CLOTHING

While trekking, you will be hoisting yourself up by grabbing onto vines and plants. We suggest purchasing thick, gardening-style gloves that will protect your hands from thorns, stinging nettles, and insects. Be ready for the jungle weather by bringing waterproof trousers, a rain suit, or a poncho with a hood.

Lightweight trousers are essential and we recommend tucking them into your socks or boots to fend-off insects and sharp vegetation. Just as essential to pack, are warmer clothes for when the temperature drops. Be sure to also pack short-sleeved shirts or t-shirts for when the weather heats up.

Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck from the sun's rays during your gorilla trek and your casual clothes and pyjamas for relaxation once you return to the lodge.

FOOTWEAR

Hiking boots should be light, sturdy, and waterproof, protecting your ankles from sharp plants and general strain from climbing the mountain. Your socks should be long and thick, acting as protection from the elements and insects. Don’t forget to pack a pair of casual shoes for when you are relaxing back at the lodge.

RECOMMENDED EXTRAS

We recommend bringing a small, lightweight, frameless, waterproof backpack and be sure to include a waterproof bag in your backpack to ensure your camera equipment is extra protected. Remember, no flash photography is allowed on the trek as it will startle the gorillas, but your encounter with these incredible primates is the perfect time to invest in a quality camera.

A water bottle or canteen is essential for the long days on the mountain. An optional extra is to pack hydration sachets to mix into your water which will help to replenish lost electrolytes. Good quality sunscreen and insect repellent will become your best friend and should be applied frequently. Finally, some people bring along trekking poles which can help with balance while hiking.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

1. At our select properties, you will likely be offered the assistance of a porter for an additional cost and tip. We highly recommend the services of a porter as they will help with your belongings and make the trek so much easier. Many of these porters are reliant on the income from trekking to both support their families and keep them out of poaching groups.
2. Pack very lightly as your trip may include a light aircraft transfer. Depending on the airline, bags must weigh between 15kg – 20kg (33lbs – 44lbs), have maximum dimensions of approximately 25 x 65 x 30cm, have soft sides, and no wheels. Please speak to your Travel Expert if you have any queries.
3. Camouflage clothing is illegal in many African countries.
4. Animal print is advised against as it may startle the gorillas.