Packing · 6 min read

What to Pack for an East Africa Safari

Published 19 May 2026

Elephant near water in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Layering matters more than any single "must-have" item. Mornings on game drives can be genuinely cold, midday sun is strong, and Bwindi's forest interior stays cool and damp even in dry season.

For gorilla or chimp trekking specifically: sturdy, broken-in hiking boots, gardening gloves (the forest has stinging nettles and thorny vines), a light rain jacket regardless of season, and gaiters if you own them. Neutral colors are genuinely useful for wildlife viewing, not just tradition.

Beyond that: a warm layer for early starts, a wide-brim hat, reef-safe sunscreen, a basic first-aid kit, and a dry bag for cameras during launch cruises. We send a full checklist tailored to your specific itinerary once your trip is confirmed.

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