Ten ways to Prepare for your Go Ape Visit

Last updated on: 24/07/23

If you’re reading this, you're probably well on your way to booking your  Go Ape experience and are excitedly anticipating your visit! While you whittle away the time between now and adventuring in the forest, here are just a few tips to make sure you’re prepared for your visit. 

Just a note; a few of the items in this list are suggestions for things to bring with you, such as waterproofs and sun protection. You aren't able to take a bag with you on our adventures, but anything you choose not to wear at the start of your activity can be left in your car or at the Go Ape cabin. If you need it part way through your experience, you can always pop back to fetch it. Remember to ask a Go Ape instructor to re-fit your harness if you're adding or removing layers of clothing.

1. Complete Your Disclaimer 

Part of the fun of Go Ape is getting out of your comfort zone. Naturally, our activities do come with some inherent risk, that's why we require a completed disclaimer for every participant. You sign it to say that you, and anyone you're signing for has read the safety rules and advice and accept the risks involved with the activity. 

The person that booked your activity will have been e-mailed a link to the disclaimer for your Go Ape adventure. 

2. Layers are great! 

British weather can often change in a heartbeat, so you should be prepared for all temperatures!

Bring along a fleece and a couple of extra layers. Worst-case scenario, you'll just have to leave them in the car or our on-site lockers.

Spares can also be helpful if you get a bit muddy during your Go Ape adventure – it's nature's war paint, after all!

3. Wear Sensible Shoes 

Remember to wear sensible shoes!

Check out the rules and advice for the activity you will be participating in, and make sure you follow them. Wear closed-toe and heel shoes with a good grip (and you don’t mind getting a little muddy).

4. Bring your waterproofs – just in case!

Regardless of the weather forecast, always bring a waterproof coat, a mac, or a pair of waterproof trousers - if you're feeling very prepared. It's always better to be prepared than caught out by a sudden shower.

You won't be able to carry your waterproofs around in the trees with you, but if you need to slip them on when you're back on the ground, during your adventure, then remember to ask an instructor to re-fit your harness.

5. Dig out your gloves and winter woollies 

If the weather forecast is looking a bit chilly, dig out your winter woollies and wrap up warm? Bring along a scarf, hat, and gloves to enjoy your cosy style. Don't worry if you forget. You can always purchase Go Ape's stylish gloves or hats on the day.

Even on a warm day, we recommend wearing gloves. Climbing through the tree tops, clinging onto ladders, obstacles, and ropes can be much more comfortable if you do.

6. Bring along a pair of sunglasses 

Even in the winter, the sun is still quite harsh, so it can be a good idea to bring along a pair of sunglasses.

Also, if you're taking part in a Forest Segway experience, they can help keep any dust out of your eyes!

7. Be sure to pack plenty of food and drink 

Unsurprisingly, our adventures are often pretty active, and it's worthwhile bringing plenty of water and snacks with you to keep you hydrated and happy before and after. During your adventure, you'll find water stations around our activities. 

If you have a reusable bottle, many of our Go Ape locations are part of the refill.org scheme, so just pop your head in the cabin and one of our friendly team will be hapy to give you a top up. If you've left your bottle at home, you can even buy your very own Go Ape water bottles on the day.

8. Check out what else is on offer In the forest 

The adventure does not have to end when you finish your Go Ape adventure. Our 36 locations are based in many beautiful and interesting places with lots of other activities available. Make a day of it with your loves ones, roam freely in the great outdoors and let their imaginations run wild.  

9. Research the area around our Locations

Go Ape locations are situated amongst acres of stunning woodland, moorland, and mountains. It is well worth researching the location you will be visiting so that, after your adventure, you can have a wander around the Great British countryside and find a scenic picnic spot.

10. Bring change and a card for the car park 

This may sound mundane but remember to bring both some change and a card for the car park. Many, but not all sites, rely on card payments, so it is worth making sure that you have some cash just in case.

You can find out more about our venues and their parking facilities in the "Location Overview" section of each location page.