Gorilla Families in Buhoma Sector

Discover the Habituated Gorilla Families in Buhoma Sector

Buhoma, located in the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is the most visited sector of the park and the first to be habituated for gorilla tourism in 1993, following Bwindi’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buhoma is home to four habituated gorilla families: Mubare, Habinyanja, Rushegura and Katwe.

Meet the Habituated Gorilla Families in Buhoma

Mubare Gorilla Family – The Oldest Gorilla Group in Bwindi

Mubare is the first gorilla family to be habituated in Bwindi, opening for trekking in 1993. Named after the Mubare Hills, where trackers first spotted the group, this family originally had 12 members. Over time, due to natural challenges and conflicts, the numbers dwindled. After the death of the dominant silverback, Ruhondeza, leadership was taken over by Kanyonyi and the group has now grown to 9 members.

Habinyanja Gorilla Family – The Water-Side Clan

Habinyanja was habituated in 1997 and officially opened for trekking in 1999. Its name comes from the Rukiga word “Nyanja,” meaning “a water place,” as the group was first seen near a swamp. Originally led by Mugurusi, leadership later passed to his sons, Mwirima and Rwansigazi. Due to differences—Rwansigazi loved to roam while Mwirima preferred stability—the group split, forming the Rushegura family. Today, Habinyanja is led by Silverback Makara and has 17 members, including 9 adults, 5 infants and 3 juveniles. The trek to this group begins with a 45-minute drive to Nyamishaba village.

Rushegura Gorilla Family – The Adventurous Group

Rushegura was formed in 2002 when Silverback Mwirima split from the Habinyanja family, taking 7 members with him. After his passing, the leadership shifted to a younger blackback. This family has since expanded to 19 members. Living near the border of Uganda and DR Congo, the group often crosses between the two countries. Trekking to this group is relatively easy, starting with a short 15-minute walk from the park headquarters to the trail at Mukono.

Katwe Gorilla Family – The Newest Addition

Katwe is the most recent habituated group in Buhoma, taking about three years to fully adapt to human presence. Established in 2018 to increase the number of available trekking permits, the group consists of one dominant silverback, four females and two babies. Since members frequently move in and out, the total count can fluctuate.

What to Wear and Carry for Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma

Gorilla trekking in Buhoma involves hiking through steep, muddy trails in a tropical rainforest, sometimes in rainy conditions. To ensure a comfortable and successful trek, here’s what you need:

Clothing:

• Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
• Thick trousers and a long-sleeved shirt (for protection against stinging nettles)
• A sweatshirt or light jacket (mornings can be chilly)
• Gardening gloves (to protect hands when grabbing vegetation for support)

Essential Gear:

• A waterproof backpack
• Raincoat or poncho (especially during the wet season)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
• At least 2 liters of drinking water
• Light snacks for energy
• A waterproof cover or plastic bag for your camera

Binoculars are not necessary for gorilla trekking but birdwatchers may find them useful. The trek is often demanding and most visitors focus on navigating the terrain rather than spotting birds.

Best Time to Trek Gorillas in Buhoma

Buhoma is open for gorilla trekking year-round but certain months offer better conditions:

• Best trekking months: June to August and December to February (less rainfall, drier trails)
• Rainy season: March to May and November (heavier rainfall but discounted lodge rates available)

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Safari with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Trek Africa Gorillas offers unforgettable gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. We are highly rated on TripAdvisor and offer eco-friendly tours that contribute to conservation and local communities. Our safaris also include:

• Chimpanzee trekking
• Big Five safaris and game viewing
• Mountain hiking
• Boat excursions
• Cultural encounters

We also organize customized safaris to top African destinations, including Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana and Namibia.

Ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in Buhoma? Contact us today for bookings and inquiries!