What to wear on a Chimpanzee Tracking Safari?

What to Wear on a Chimpanzee Tracking Safari? – Choosing the Right Gear

What to wear on a Chimpanzee Tracking Safari? — Embarking on a chimpanzee tracking safari requires thoughtful consideration of your attire. When venturing to foreign destinations, dressing modestly is not only respectful but also practical. Emphasizing comfort is crucial, especially in the warm plains and lower altitudes, contrasted with the cold hilly and mountainous areas of Uganda and Rwanda. A well-prepared outfit includes a rain jacket, fleece, and high-quality walking shoes or boots.

For chimpanzee tracking, opt for sturdy clothing to guard against scratches. Long-sleeved shirts, trousers, and a pair of lightweight walking boots are recommended. Consider protective leather or gardening gloves and gaiters for added safety. Given variable temperatures and changing weather, pack a fleece or light jumper, layered with moisture-wicking undergarments. Include a lightweight, breathable waterproof jacket or poncho in your ensemble.

A small backpack becomes essential to carry water, a packed lunch, camera, and binoculars. Park headquarters usually offer walking sticks, and hiring a porter is advisable, not just for assistance but also to provide local employment. While on safari, don neutral-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Most accommodations offer laundry services, making excessive clothing unnecessary.

Essential Clothing for Safaris/Trekking

• Khaki/natural-colored clothing for safaris/trekking
• 1–2 pairs of lightweight trousers/slacks (quick-drying for treks)
• 1 pair of shorts
• 1–2 long-sleeved shirts (preferably quick-drying)
• 2–3 short-sleeved shirts (preferably moisture-wicking)

Casual Clothes for Evenings

• 1–2 pairs of lightweight trousers/slacks
• 1–3 sports/long-sleeved shirts and/or blouses
• 1 dress/skirt for ladies

Exterior Clothing

• 1 lightweight waterproof/windproof/breathable jacket
• 1 fleece, sweater, or sweatshirt
• Sturdy/lightweight waterproof walking boots (tuck trousers/pants into socks and boots while trekking)
• 1 pair of shoes for evening wear
• 1 pair of sports sandals

Miscellaneous

• Gaiters
• Sunscreen and moisturizing cream
• Sunglasses with a neck strap
• Insect repellent with DEET
• Daypack/small rucksack
• Binoculars
• Alarm clock
• Earplugs
• Spare/extra batteries
• Camera and extra lenses
• Camera charger/converter/adapter
• Film (fast film for primates)
• Personal toiletries/prescription medicines
• Wet wipes/tissues
• Back-up glasses
• Ziplocs/dry bags and other plastic bags
• Torch/flashlight (LED models are lightweight)
• Sewing kit (needle, thread, safety pins)
• Small notebook
• First Aid Kit