SIMPLE CARRY-ON LIST, DOS & DON’TS
At Faharai Uganda Safaris, we will try our best to ensure that you enjoy your safari and tracking experience in a safe way.
Below are some highlights of what to expect, carry-ons.
NOTE THAT:
There will be professional rangers at the tracking gate to lead you during the tracking. REMEMBER, IT IS THE RANGERS AND GUIDE WHO WILL GIVE THE ULTIMATE MOST IMPORTANT BRIEF ON DOS AND DONTS. By all means, pay maximum attention to them so you can enjoy this once in a lifetime experience.
You will also find very affordable porters to help you with carrying all your baggage incase you need help at the gate.
But prepare well physically because tracking is a physical and exhilarating experience but with a memorable unmarched experience.
Below is our recommended carry-on list for tracking the Mountain Gorillas:
- At all times, ensure you have your tracking permits with you and your passport even at onset of tracking.
- Walking boots to navigate the sometimes muddy and hilly terrain.
- Waterproof jacket and trousers. Most times the ground is wet and muddy even if it doesn’t rain.
- Wearing waterproof trousers helps you to position well for different photography angles.
- Full long-sleeved shirt to guard against the overgrown undergrowth and tree branches and flying insects.
- Thick long socks to guard you against insects and scratches.
- Gloves for a firmer grip on the occasional support you need from rainforest vegetation.
- Camera sheath or waterproof bag to protect equipment
- Get a walking stick. These are available at the tracking point or from the lodge to ease your navigation of this tricky terrain.
- Warm sweater.
- Monetary tips are not compulsory in Uganda but recommended as a token of appreciation.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a sunhat for the ever changing weather.
- Don’t forget bottled drinking water. Carry plenty.
- And ofcourse your packed lunch from your Lodge.
Other Travel accessories
- Plug adaptor- Uganda uses a 240 volts AC 50 Hz square-pin plug, the same as the UK and Ireland.
- Flashlight/torch.
- Some people find contact lenses uncomfortable in Uganda because of the dust – you may find it more comfortable to wear glasses while on the road.
- Antiseptic hand wash- but these are available in most local supermarkets and shops.
- Carry a Poncho- Just so the sudden rains don't surprise and drench you, please carry a poncho with you .
- Remember to carry your passport to the beginning of the tracking point. This will help the park rangers synchronize your gorilla permit and your personal identification.
Health briefs.
- Anti-malarial and insect repellents.
- Accommodation in high-risk areas will have mosquito nets – be sure to use them.
- There is a risk of bilharzia in the Lakes, minimize unnecessary swimming except in the swimming pools in the lodges.
- Tap water is not suitable for drinking, though bottled water is readily available throughout the country.
ALSO CAREFULLY NOTE THE FOLLOWING:
Safety is paramount even though there is no incident of a tourist harmed by this giants of the wild. The Gorilla is massive in size and incredibly powerful. But they are very friendly hence the name “Gentle Giants.”
Again pay attention to what the game rangers tell you
- Only 8-10 are allowed to track gorillas per group and only one hour is permitted in their presence
- Cover your mouth, nose if you wish to cough. This will protect the gorilla from contracting any human disease like flu and colds which can be very detrimental and fatal to them.
- Do not litter the forest because your litter can be a source of disease for the Gorilla hence harming conservation efforts.
- Keep a respectable distance of about eight metres between you and the gorillas – Sometimes the gorillas may move towards you. In this case the rangers will guide you perhaps to move backwards a bit.
- While in the presence of the gorillas, always stay calm. Ignore their curiosity
- Avoid sudden movements.
- If by any chance a gorilla charges, do not run away. Remain calm and avoid direct eye contact. The gorilla will slowly move away in its own time.
- View gorillas from a distance and do not surround them.
We wish you a memorable and safe experience in the wild
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