Do lodges offer packed lunches for trekkers?
Gorilla trekking is one of East Africa’s most unforgettable adventures. But the experience demands endurance, time, and preparation. Treks can last several hours—sometimes up to a full day in dense forests. That’s why many travelers wonder: Do lodges offer packed lunches for trekkers? The short answer is yes—most lodges near gorilla trekking regions provide well-prepared packed lunches to ensure guests stay energized during their jungle excursion.
Why Packed Lunches Are Important
Mountain gorilla trekking doesn’t follow a fixed timeline. While some visitors spot gorillas within a couple of hours, others may hike all day. These treks take place in remote, forested areas where restaurants and shops are nonexistent. Without a packed lunch, you’d spend hours without food, which can affect your energy and overall experience. Lodges understand this challenge and step in to ensure you’re nourished on the trail.
What’s Included in a Typical Packed Lunch?
Most lodges prepare nutrient-rich and easy-to-carry meals designed for trekking. The lunch often comes in eco-friendly or disposable packaging and fits easily in your daypack. Though the contents may vary slightly by lodge, a typical packed lunch includes:
- A sandwich or wrap (chicken, beef, or vegetarian)
- A boiled egg
- Fresh fruit (banana or apple)
- Bottled drinking water or juice
- A granola bar, biscuit, or chocolate
- A muffin or cookie for a sweet bite
These items help you stay full without weighing you down.
How to Get Your Packed Lunch
At check-in or during the pre-trek briefing, lodge staff usually confirm whether you will need a packed lunch the next morning. You can inform them of any dietary restrictions—most lodges accommodate vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free preferences with advance notice.
Your packed lunch will be ready at breakfast or handed over before you head to the park headquarters for the trekking briefing. Some lodges even allow guests to choose their preferred items from a menu the night before.
Where and When to Eat During the Trek
Eating near gorillas is prohibited to protect them from human diseases and behavior. Your guide will direct the group to an appropriate lunch spot—usually a shaded clearing or resting area during the return journey. It’s essential to carry out all trash and avoid feeding any wildlife.
Lodges That Offer Packed Lunches
Several lodges near gorilla trekking parks across Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC are known for their excellent hospitality and well-prepared lunches:
Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest)
- Buhoma Lodge
- Mahogany Springs Lodge
- Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park)
- Bisate Lodge
- Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
- Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
DRC (Virunga National Park)
- Mikeno Lodge
- Bukima Tented Camp
These lodges often go beyond expectations by offering customized lunch options, reusable packaging, and hydration support.
Helpful Tips for Trekkers
- Inform the lodge early if you have dietary needs.
- Carry a daypack with room for your lunch, water, and essentials.
- Don’t eat near gorillas—wait for the designated stop.
- Stay hydrated—most packed lunches include at least one bottle of water, but bring more if you’re trekking long hours.
- Dispose of waste responsibly.
Plan Your Visit With Us
A well-packed lunch is just one piece of a successful gorilla trekking day. The real value lies in how the entire experience is arranged—from your accommodation to park permits to expert guidance. At Gecko Safaris Africa, we ensure every detail supports a safe, memorable, and nourishing adventure.
Let us help you plan your gorilla trekking tour—complete with quality packed lunches and handpicked eco-lodges. Contact us today for customized safari planning.
