Peaks and Primates of Rwanda
The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum.
You must bring the following items:
Hiking boots with gaiters (see below)
Trainers /sneakers or comfortable walking shoes
Socks
Underwear
Trekking trousers / pants
Lightweight waterproof overtrousers / rainpants
Thermal baselayer shirts
T-shirts and/or casual shirts
Fleece jacket or warm jumper/sweater
Waterproof jacket
Sunhat
Warm hat and scarf or buff
Eyewear - Sunglasses
Gloves
Daypack c. 30 - 40 litres*
Headtorch / headlamp
Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)
Water bottles 1 Litre (1 quart) x2
Selection of dry bags (to keep trek bag contents dry, and for Karisimbi climb*)
3 season sleeping bag (rated to 0°C)
Thermarest or similar sleeping mat
Washbag and toiletries
Small Towel
Antibacterial handwash
Basic First Aid Kit including: A broad spectrum antibiotic; insect repellent (DEET); antiseptic cream; throat lozenges; diarrhoea treatment (Diocalm or Immodium); painkillers; plasters and blister treatment; and re-hydration salts (Dioralite). Glucose tablets or Kendal Mint cake, and multi-vitamin tablets are a good idea.
The following items are optional:
Trekking poles (strongly advised)
Spare laces
Shorts
Sleeping bag liner
Thermarest (A foam mattress is provided for the 1 night on Karisimbi)
Swimwear
Travel clothes
Camera, film, spare batteries
Pocket-knife (note: always pack sharp objects in hold baggage)
Small padlock (to lock trek bag)
Repair kit – (eg needle, thread, duct tape)
Notes:
Hiking Boots: On account of the muddy conditions which may be encountered on sections of the trek, for example Gorilla trekking and trekking to Karisimbi summit we would recommend that your footwear is as waterproof as possible and gaiters are worn.
Wildlife spotting colours: Muted colours (darker greens and khaki) are best for trekking and wildlife viewing in these forests.
*Karisimbi Climb: Your backpack should be big enough for you to carry your sleeping bag and personal belongings for the 2 days on the mountain. Please ensure that this is as light as possible. It is possible that you can hire an assistant/porter to carry your bag for these 2 days once you are at the trailhead. You should pay the porter directly. Your main kit bag will remain at the lodge.
