Habituated Gorilla Families and Groups in Uganda & Rwanda

Gorilla families in Uganda and Rwanda are the social groups of mountain gorillas which are biologically related. Just like humans, gorillas also live in a family which is led by the alpha male known as a silverback. Other members in the family include several females, juveniles and infants.

The number of gorillas in a single family may range from 2 to 30 individuals. Uganda has a total number of 14 habituated gorilla families while Rwanda has 10 habituated Gorilla families with each Gorilla family comprising of 10 to 40 members of varying ages headed by a silverback gorillas. These are the ones that are visited by tourists.

List of Habituated Gorilla families in Uganda

There are over 20 habituated gorilla families in Bwindi impenetrable national park. These gorilla families are evenly distributed among the four gorilla tracking sectors of the park. The sectors include Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija and Rushaga. Mgahinga gorilla national park has got one gorilla group known as Nyakagezi.

Gorilla families in Buhoma

Buhoma, located in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is a renowned sector for gorilla tracking and home to several captivating gorilla families. Each family, with its unique history and dynamics, offers visitors a chance to connect with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Let’s explore the gorilla families of Buhoma and the unforgettable experiences they provide to travelers.

• Mubare Gorilla Family

Mubare is the first habituated gorilla family in Bwindi, opened for tourism in 1993. Named after the Mubare Hills, this group began with 12 members and is now led by the silverback, Kanyonyi. A visit to Mubare offers a unique opportunity to witness the journey of this family over the years and appreciate their resilience.

Habinyanja Gorilla Family

Habinyanja, which means “body of water,” resides near the Buhoma sector, close to a swampy area. Led by the dominant silverback, Makara, this family typically consists of around 17 members. Tracking Habinyanja provides a unique experience as they often move through dense vegetation, presenting both challenges and rewards for trekkers

Rushegura Gorilla Family

Rushegura is known for its gentle and easygoing nature, earning its name from the local tree species. The dominant silverback, Kabukojo, leads a family of approximately 19 members. A visit to Rushegura offers a tranquil and peaceful encounter with these remarkable animals.

The Katwe Gorilla Family

This group is named after the Katwe village, located near the park. Katwe group is led by a dominant silverback named Katwe, who is known for his impressive size and strength. The group consists of several adult females, juveniles, and infants. Visitors to the park have the opportunity to go on guided gorilla trekking tours to observe and learn about the behavior and conservation efforts of the Katwe gorilla group

The Muyabi Gorilla family

This group is known for its unique characteristics and fascinating behavior. Led by a dominant silverback named Muyabi, the group consists of several adult females, juveniles, and infants. The Muyabi gorilla group is known for its calm and peaceful nature, making it a popular choice for tourists visiting the park for gorilla trekking. The group’s habitat is characterized by dense vegetation and hilly terrain, providing a suitable environment for their survival. 

How to get to Buhoma Sector in Bwindi

To get to Buhoma Sector in Bwindi, you can follow these steps:

By Air: The quickest way to reach Bwindi is by taking a domestic flight from Entebbe or Kampala to Kihihi Airstrip or Kisoro Airstrip. From there, you can arrange for a transfer or hire a private vehicle to reach Buhoma Sector.

By Road: If you prefer a more scenic route, you can travel by road from Entebbe or Kampala to Buhoma Sector. The journey takes approximately 8-10 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions. You can either hire a private vehicle with a driver or join an organized tour that includes transportation.

 Route Options

Via Kampala – Kabale – Kanungu – Buhoma: This is the most common route taken by travelers driving from Kampala. From Kampala, you will head southwest towards Kabale town, passing through beautiful landscapes and rural villages along the way. From Kabale, continue towards Kanungu and then proceed to Buhoma Sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Via Kampala – Mbarara – Ntungamo – Rukungiri – Kihihi – Buhoma: Another route option is to travel from Kampala to Buhoma via Mbarara, Ntungamo, Rukungiri, and Kihihi. This route offers different scenery and road conditions compared to the Kampala-Kabale route. It is advisable to check the condition of the roads before choosing this route.

It is important to note that road conditions in Uganda can vary, especially during the rainy season. It is recommended to check the latest travel advisories, road conditions, and weather forecasts before embarking on your journey.

What to carry on your visit to Buhoma sector

It is also important to remember to carry all vital items like your identification documents, gorilla trekking permits, trekking gear like comfortable hiking boots, lightweight and breathable clothing, a hat or cap for sun protection, sunscreen, insect repellent, a rain jacket or poncho, a reusable water bottle, a small backpack or daypack, a camera or smartphone for capturing the beautiful scenery and wildlife, binoculars for bird watching and wildlife spotting, a first aid kit with basic medical supplies, any necessary medications, a travel adapter for charging electronic devices, and some local currency for small purchases. 

In conclusion, Each of these gorilla families in Buhoma has a unique history and characteristics that make a visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park an enriching and educational experience. These magnificent creatures serve as a testament to the park’s conservation efforts and highlight the importance of preserving their natural habitats. Gorilla trekking in Buhoma not only provides a rare opportunity to connect with these incredible animals but also contributes to their continued survival on our planet. Visitors can be part of the conservation efforts and enjoy an extraordinary adventure with Bwindi’s gentle giants.

Gorilla families in Rushaga

Rushaga, a prominent sector within Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is home to several captivating gorilla families, each with its unique stories and personalities. Let’s take a closer look at the extraordinary gorilla families of Rushaga and the incredible experiences they offer to visitors.

Nshongi Gorilla Family

Named after the Nshongi River, this family was once the largest habituated group in Bwindi, boasting over 25 members. This family is named after the Nshongi River, which runs through their home range. The Nshongi family is known for its size and unique composition, as it is one of the largest gorilla families with multiple silverbacks.  Nshongi has faced several challenges, including leadership changes, yet it remains a remarkable family to visit. The dominant silverback, Nshongi, is known for his resilience and strength. Tracking this family is a fascinating journey through the dense Bwindi forest.

Bweza Gorilla Family

Bweza, meaning “update,” is one of the newer families in Rushaga. This family, with its small but growing number of members, offers an intimate gorilla tracking experience. Led by silverback Kakono, Bweza provides an opportunity for visitors to witness the maturation of its younger members and the development of family dynamics.

Mishaya Gorilla Family

Led by the dominant silverback Mishaya, this family consists of several members including adult females, juveniles, and infants. Mishaya is known for his impressive size and strong leadership skills, which have helped him, maintain a stable and cohesive group. The family is often observed foraging for food, playing, and engaging in social interactions within their natural habitat. Visitors to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park have the opportunity to track and observe the Mishaya gorilla family, providing a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience.

Kahungye Gorilla Family

Kahungye, known for its size and the strength of its silverbacks, is another enchanting group in Rushaga. The dominant silverback, Gwigi, has maintained this family’s stability and growth, with approximately 18 members. Tracking Kahungye often involves navigating through challenging terrain but rewards trekkers with a close encounter with these majestic creatures.

Busingye Gorilla Family

This family is named after its dominant silverback, Busingye, which means “peace” in the local language. The Busingye family is known for its size and stability, consisting of around 25 members including several adult females, juveniles, and infants. The group is often observed peacefully feeding and interacting with each other, providing a delightful experience for tourists who visit the park for gorilla trekking. 

Muchunguzi Gorilla Family

This family is known for its unique characteristics and fascinating behavior, attracting numerous tourists and researchers from around the world. The Muchunguzi Gorilla Family consists of several members, including a dominant silverback, adult females, juveniles, and infants. They are known for their close-knit social structure and peaceful interactions within the group. 

Rwigi Gorilla Family

Rwigi is one of the newer gorilla families in Rushaga, habituated and opened for tourism in recent years. Led by the silverback Rwigi, this group provides an opportunity for trekkers to witness the fascinating development of a gorilla family from its early stages.

Bikingi Gorilla Family

This family is known for its friendly and curious nature, and is often sought after by tourists for gorilla trekking experiences. The family was led by a dominant male silverback named Bikingi, who was estimated to be around 20 years old and weighed around 250 kg who later died in silverback fight. The family is known for its playful and social behavior, and is often seen playing and interacting with each other.

How to get to the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable national park

To get to Rushaga Sector in Bwindi, there are several transportation options available depending on your starting point. Rushaga is located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, which is known for its population of mountain gorillas. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to reach Rushaga Sector:

By Air

The most convenient way to reach Rushaga Sector is by flying into the nearest airport, which is Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Kihihi Airstrip or Kisoro Airstrip in Uganda. Once you arrive at either Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip, you can arrange for a transfer to Rushaga Sector.

By Road

From Kampala or Entebbe town: If you prefer a more adventurous journey, you can opt for road travel. From Kampala, the capital city of Uganda or from Entebbe city, you can take a private vehicle or hire a driver to reach Rushaga Sector. The journey from Kampala or Entebbe and Rushaga approximately takes around 8-10 hours depending on road conditions and traffic. The route passes through Kabale town and follows the Kabale-Kisoro Road until reaching Rushaga.

From Kigali (Rwanda): You can take a bus or hire a private vehicle from Kigali to Kabale, which takes around 3-4 hours. After reaching Kabale, it is a 2-3 hour drive to Rushaga Sector.

Gorilla tracking in Rushaga offers not only a chance to connect with these remarkable creatures but also a glimpse into the complex and intricate social structures and behaviors that define the lives of these endangered primates. It is a testament to the tireless efforts of conservationists and park authorities to protect and preserve these majestic animals and their natural habitat. Visitors to Rushaga can be a part of this crucial effort to conserve the mountain gorillas while enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the heart of Bwindi’s primate haven.

Gorilla families in Nkuringo

Nkuringo, a stunning sector within Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is home to several captivating gorilla families, each with its unique stories and personalities. These families offer a fascinating and intimate look into the world of mountain gorillas, allowing visitors to witness the complexities of their social structures and behaviors. Let’s delve into the extraordinary gorilla families of Nkuringo and the experiences they provide to trekkers.

Nkuringo Gorilla Family

Nkuringo, meaning “round hill,” is the namesake of the sector, and the family is led by the formidable silverback, Safari. This family typically consists of around 19 members. Tracking Nkuringo is not for the faint-hearted, as it often involves navigating challenging terrain with steep slopes. However, the rewarding views of the Virunga volcanoes and the intimate encounters with these majestic creatures make the journey well worth it.

Christmas (Kyaguliro) Gorilla Family

Known as the Christmas family, Kyaguliro was opened for tourism on Christmas Day in 2010. This family is led by the silverback Rukara and is known for its complex social dynamics and behaviors. Tracking Kyaguliro provides a unique opportunity to observe the intricacies of gorilla family life.

Bushaho Gorilla Family

The Bushaho gorilla family is another significant group in the Nkuringo sector. Led by a dominant silverback called Mishaya, this family consists of several adult females and young gorillas. Mishaya took over leadership after splitting from another gorilla group, which resulted in the formation of the Bushaho family. They are known for their adventurous nature and can sometimes be found exploring new areas within their territory.

These gorilla families in the Nkuringo sector play a vital role in the conservation efforts of mountain gorillas. They contribute to the genetic diversity of the species and provide valuable opportunities for researchers and tourists to observe and study these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

 Conservation organizations and park authorities closely monitor the gorilla families in the Nkuringo sector to ensure their safety and protection. Strict guidelines are in place for gorilla trekking activities, limiting the number of visitors allowed per day to minimize disturbance to the gorillas and their habitat. This helps to maintain a sustainable balance between tourism and conservation efforts.

In addition to protecting the gorilla families, conservation initiatives in the Nkuringo sector also focus on community engagement and education. Local communities are involved in conservation projects, which help foster a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the preservation of these endangered species.

Visiting Nkuringo allows trekkers to be part of a vital conservation effort and witness the incredible lives of these endangered primates. The families in Nkuringo showcase the dedication and success of conservationists and park authorities in protecting these remarkable animals and their natural habitat.

How to get to Nkuringo sector

Road Transport: The most common way to reach Nkuringo Sector is by road. You can either hire a private vehicle or use public transportation options like buses or taxis. The journey from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, to Nkuringo Sector takes approximately 8-10 hours by road. The route passes through Kabale town, and from there, you can take a scenic drive through the hills and valleys to reach Nkuringo.

Air Transport: If you prefer a quicker and more convenient option, you can choose to fly to the nearest airport and then continue your journey by road. The closest airport to Nkuringo Sector is Kisoro Airstrip, which is served by domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport. From Kisoro Airstrip, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a transfer to Nkuringo Sector.

Where to stay when you visit Nkuringo sector

When it comes to choosing where to stay, there are several options available, ranging from budget-friendly lodges to luxury tented camps. One popular option is the Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Camp, which offers comfortable tented accommodations and a range of activities, including gorilla trekking and bird watching. Another option is the Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, which features stylish rooms and a beautiful setting overlooking the valley below. For those looking for a more rustic experience, the Nkuringo Bwindi Camp is a simple but comfortable option that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. For a luxurious experience Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge would be a great choice.

Conclusion:

Gorilla tracking in Nkuringo provides an exclusive chance to experience the intimate world of mountain gorillas, offering visitors a deep connection with these magnificent creatures. It is a tribute to the tireless efforts of those dedicated to gorilla conservation, and it emphasizes the importance of preserving the mountain gorilla species for future generations. A trip to Nkuringo promises an unforgettable adventure and an opportunity to contribute to the continued survival of these remarkable animals.

List of Habituated Gorilla families in Rwanda

Gorilla families in Rwanda can be seen during visits in the Volcanoes national park which is located in the northwest of the country. These include Karisimbi, Susa, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Umubano, Kwitonda, Agashya, Bwenge, Ugyenda and also Hirwa gorilla group.

Apart from Volcanoes national park in Rwanda, mountain gorillas can also be seen in Bwindi national park and Mgahinga national park in Uganda and also Virunga national park inn Congo. Uganda alone is home to over half the world’s population of mountain gorillas.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda can be done starting with a briefing at the park headquarters before going into the forests to search for the habituated gorilla families at the destination. A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs 1500 USD per person and only 8 people are allowed to visit a gorilla family in Volcanoes national park daily.

The gorilla permits in Rwanda are issued by the Rwanda Development Board and can be issued by licensed tour operators. Booking the permits in advance is advised during safaris around Volcanoes national park.

Karisimbi gorilla family

The Karisimbi gorilla family is among the gorilla groups which can be visited in Volcanoes national park and it is made up of 16 members.

This gorilla family can be seen around the slopes of Mount Karisimbi during gorilla trekking experiences in Volcanoes national park. Karisimbi gorilla group is considered one of the hardest habituated groups of gorillas at the destination.

Karisimbi gorilla family is also referred to as Susa B gorilla family.

Susa gorilla family

Tourists can also visit the Susa gorilla family when visiting Volcanoes national park during gorilla trekking experiences in Rwanda.

Susa gorilla family is one of the biggest groups of gorillas found in Volcanoes national park and it consists of about 28 members. It is also one of the most visited gorilla families in the national park

The gorilla family was named after the Susa river and is also one of the first habituated gorilla groups in Rwanda by Dian Fossey and is also referred to as Susa A gorilla family.

Sabyinyo gorilla family

Sabyinyo gorilla family can also be visited during tours in Volcanoes national park and it is made up of 13 members.

The silverback leading the Sabyinyo gorilla family is called Guhonda and udirng gorilla trekking in Volcanoes national park, the gorilla group can be seen around the slopes of Mount Sabyinyo which is one of the Virunga mountains found at the destination.

Amahoro gorilla family

Tourists can also encounter the Amahoro gorilla family during gorilla trekking experiences in Volcanoes national park.

Amahoro gorilla family is made up of about 17 individuals and is led by the silverback called Ubumbwe. The name Amahoro means Peaceful in the Kinyarwanda language and this gorilla group can be seen around the slopes of Mount Bisoke.

The search for this particular gorilla group also involves steep hikes when searching for the mountain gorillas.

Umubano gorilla family

The Umubano gorilla family is another group of gorillas which can be seen when visiting Volcanoes national park.

The gorilla family consists of 13 individuals and can also be seen in the same areas as the Amahoro gorilla family. Umubano gorilla family was formed after splitting from the Amahoro gorilla group.

Kwitonda gorilla family

Kwitonda gorilla family in Volcanoes national park is made up of about 18 individuals and can be spotted around the slopes of Mount Muhabura.

The gorillas in the Kwitonda gorilla family are known for their movement to different areas making them difficult to spot during gorilla trekking experiences in Volcanoes national park. This gorilla group is also said to have moved from Virunga national park in Congo to Rwanda.

Agashya gorilla family

The Agashya gorilla family is another gorilla group that tourists interact with during visits to Volcanoes national park in Rwanda.

The gorilla family consists of about 13 individuals and is led by the dominant silverback named Nyakarima who took over leadership from Agashya. The gorillas in this group can be spotted around the slopes of Mount Sabyinyo during gorilla trekking in Volcanoes national park.

Bwenge gorilla family

Bwenge gorilla family in Volcanoes national park is made up of 11 individuals and was named after a silverback called Bwenge.

The gorilla group can be spotted around Mount Bisoke during gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

Ugyenda gorilla family

Another habituated gorilla family found in Volcanoes national park is the Ugyenda gorilla family which is made up of 11 individuals.

Ugyenda gorilla family is known for moving around a lot and is also among the difficult gorilla groups to trek when visiting Volcanoes national park in Rwanda.

Hirwa gorilla family

Hirwa gorilla family is made up of 16 members and was formed after splitting from the Sabyinyo group in Volcanoes national park.

This gorilla group can be seen in areas around Mount Sabyinyo and is also among the gorilla groups in Rwanda which has twins that can be spotted during gorilla trekking experiences around Volcanoes national park.

The different gorillas fund in Volcanoes national park are named during a ceremony known as the Kwita izina festival which takes place every year in Rwanda. Baby gorillas are named during this festival which is also a time when efforts of conservationists, rangers and the locals are recognized and celebrated.

Apart from visiting the different gorilla families in Volcanoes national park, tourists can also engage in different activities including golden monkey trekking, climbing the Virunga volcanoes such as Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Moune Muhabura among others, bird watching, guided nature walks and also cultural tours.

How to get to Volcanoes national park 

During tours to Volcanoes national park, tourists can get to the destination by booking flights to Kigali international airport.

From Kigali city, getting to Volcanoes national park is a 2 hour drive for a chance to interact with the different gorilla families of Rwanda.

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