What to pack for a safari in Rwanda?

The best time to visit Rwanda is from mid-May to mid-October; this is the long dry season and has perfect conditions for tracking gorillas. There are four seasons to consider when planning your Rwanda safari, however, the weather is fairly temperate and favours travel year-round, thanks to its compact size, proximity to the equator, and high altitude, which gives it a fresh highland feel and consistent temperature. 

Mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda is by far one of the greatest wildlife encounters in Rwanda, “In the heart of Central Africa, so high up that you shiver more than you sweat,” wrote the eminent primatologist Dian Fossey, “are great, old volcanoes towering almost 15,000 feet, and nearly covered with rich, green rain forest – the Virunga’s. The unique opportunity to see gorillas in their natural habitat is unforgettable, some even say life-changing. Encounters with gorillas as they go about their daily lives are carefully managed, with expert trackers and guides leading small groups of tourists up bamboo-covered slopes to spend a precious and awe-inspiring hour just a few feet away from the gentle creatures.

Our recommended pack list for the Rwanda holidays

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Strong waterproof walking boots (comfortable for going up steep hills). Pants should be tucked into socks and boots while trekking.
• Sunblock, sunglasses, hat, moisturizer and lip salve are all essentials
• Strong insect repellent
• Binoculars and camera equipment
• Small backpack to carry water and a packed lunch
• Khaki, green, beige and neutral colours (dark blue and black clothing should be avoided, as it attracts Tsetse flies)
• Shirts with long sleeves (even in summer, as protection from the sun, mosquitoes and Tsetse flies)
• T-shirts
• Shorts
• Jeans or safari trousers for evenings and cooler days
• A jacket and sweater are recommended for early morning and evening game drives
• Lightweight waterproof jacket
• Sturdy trousers
• Rain hat
• Swim and beachwear while at camp