BlogWelcome to the Jungle (Literally)
So, you’re headed for the lush highlands of Rwanda or the rainforest trails of Uganda? Amazing!
Whether you’re eye-to-eye with a silverback gorilla or wandering through misty montane forests, your adventure is about to get wild—and what you pack can make all the difference.
At Classic Explorers, we’ve crafted this no-fuss, just-the-essentials guide to help you look good, feel great, and stay adventure-ready from sunrise treks to sunset lodge dinners.
What to Wear: Safari Chic Meets Practical Magic
Pack smart, light, and neutral (fashion tip: the animals don’t care what label you’re wearing, but mosquitoes might).
- Neutral colors only – Think khakis, olives, browns. Camouflage? Leave it. Bright red? Save it for date night.
- A cozy fleece or light jacket – Trust us, those early morning treks are no joke.
- Long-sleeved shirts & pants – Sunburns and bug bites aren’t cute.
- Sturdy hiking boots – Waterproof and broken in = happy feet on muddy gorilla trails.
- Gardening gloves – Weirdly useful for grabbing vines and branches during your trek.
- Wide-brimmed hat & sunglasses – You’ll thank us on day two.
- Swimsuit – Yes, some safari lodges in Uganda & Rwanda have dreamy pools!
Toiletries & Personal Goodies
You may be deep in the wild, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stay fresh.
- SPF 30+ sunscreen – Equator sun = intense.
- Bug spray with DEET – Mosquitos have no respect for boundaries.
- Medications & first-aid basics – Especially anti-malarials and painkillers.
- Hand sanitizer & wet wipes – No safari is complete without them.
- Moisturizer + lip balm – Dry mountain air will sneak up on you.
Safari Gadgets You’ll Regret Not Bringing
Capture every jaw-dropping moment.
- Binoculars – Perfect for spotting gorillas before anyone else does.
- Camera + zoom lens – and extra batteries. And memory cards. Always.
- Headlamp or flashlight – Because power is not guaranteed in the bush.
- UK-style travel adapter – For recharging all that awesome content you’re capturing.
Docs, Cash & Must-Haves
Don’t get stuck at the park gate—or the border.
- Passport & visa docs – Make copies too, just in case.
- Yellow fever vaccination card – Required for most travelers.
- Some USD & local currency (RWF for Rwanda / UGX for Uganda) – Handy for tips, markets, and snack cravings.
- Travel insurance – Always a wise idea (especially when gorillas are involved).
Special Packing Tips for Gorilla Treks
You’ll be climbing, ducking, and maybe even crawling — so pack for adventure!
- Reusable water bottle – Hydration = happiness.
- Energy snacks – Trekking = calories burned. Fuel up!
- Daypack with a rain cover – Showers happen. Be ready.
- Extra socks – Dry feet are a blessing.
- Travel journal – Those once-in-a-lifetime gorilla moments deserve more than an Instagram Story.
Classic Explorers’ Pro Packing Wisdom
- No camo clothing – It’s illegal for civilians in many African countries.
- Ditch hard-shell luggage – Soft duffels are easier in jeeps and bush planes.
- Layer, layer, layer – You’ll go from cold mist to warm sun in hours.
Pack Light, Travel Big
You don’t need to bring the world with you — just the right stuff for this one-of-a-kind world.
Whether it’s the forests of Bwindi or the slopes of Volcanoes National Park, we’ll make sure your packing is as stress-free as your safari should be. Ready for your East Africa adventure? Contact Classic Explorers today and let’s make it unforgettable—before you even zip your bag shut!
