Is It Possible to Trek the Oruzogo Gorilla Family Exclusively?

Is It Possible to Trek the Oruzogo Gorilla Family Exclusively?

The Oruzogo Gorilla Family is located in the Ruhija sector, in the northeastern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. First opened for trekking in 2011, this family started with 25 members, including two silverbacks. Currently, the group consists of 17+ members, with Tibirikwata as the dominant silverback, along with two blackbacks, seven females, two young adults and five infants. This family is renowned for its playfulness, especially the infants, making it an exciting and joyful experience for visitors. Oruzogo also gained popularity in 2013 when it gave birth to a rare set of twin gorillas, a female named Kankonda.

If you’re interested in trekking the Oruzogo Gorilla Family exclusively, rest assured that this is entirely possible with Trek Africa Gorillas. Our exclusive treks allow you to experience the gorillas in their natural habitat with your own private group or individually, ensuring a memorable encounter with the majestic mountain gorillas.

How to Book an Exclusive Gorilla Trek with the Oruzogo Family

To trek the Oruzogo gorilla family exclusively, you need to secure all available permits for the specific day you wish to trek. There are only 8 permits available each day for this gorilla family and these must be booked in advance. Each permit costs:

• USD 800 for foreign non-residents
• USD 700 for foreign residents
• 300,000 UGX for East African citizens

When booking exclusively, you’ll need to purchase all 8 permits for that day, totaling USD 5,600 for foreign non-residents. This will allow you to have a private trek with the Oruzogo family, where you’ll spend one hour observing the gorillas. You can pay the total amount upfront or opt to pay 30%, 70% or 100% in advance to secure your permits.

Important Tips for Planning Your Exclusive Oruzogo Trek

1. Securing Gorilla Permits in Advance

Since only 8 permits are available each day, we recommend booking at least 3-4 months in advance, especially during peak season, when permits tend to sell out quickly. Securing all the permits guarantees that no other tourists will be trekking with you, ensuring a private experience with the Oruzogo family.

2. Fully Booking a Lodge in Ruhija Sector

To enhance your experience, it’s important to consider staying in a lodge near the Ruhija sector for easy access to the trekking area. There are a few great options:

• Luxury Lodges: Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge and Bakiga Lodge offer comfortable accommodations for a relaxing stay.
• Alternative Accommodation: If you prefer to stay in a nearby sector, Buhoma offers options like Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge and Silverback Lodge.

3. Comfortable Travel to Ruhija

To reach Ruhija comfortably, we recommend traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, which will give you a smooth journey through the region’s rugged roads. If you’re flying, you can take a flight to Kihihi Airstrip, which is just a 2-hour drive from Ruhija. This is a great option for those coming from Entebbe or Kampala, cutting the usual 8-9 hour drive down to just a couple of hours. Alternatively, Ruhija can be accessed from Kigali, Rwanda, via the Katuna border, with a travel time of about 4-5 hours.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija

If you’re planning to trek the Oruzogo Gorilla Family exclusively, you’re probably wondering what to wear for a comfortable and safe adventure. Here’s a helpful guide on what to bring for your trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:

• Long-sleeve Sweater: The weather in Bwindi can get chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, so a long-sleeve sweater will keep you warm.
• Two Pairs of Long Trousers: It’s important to wear durable, long trousers to protect your legs from scratches and insects during the trek.
• Waterproof Hiking Boots: Since the forest can be muddy and wet, waterproof boots will ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable throughout the hike.
• Hat and Sunglasses: These are optional but helpful for sun protection, especially if you’re trekking during the dry season.
• Camera & Spare Batteries: Photography is essential for capturing your memories of the gorillas. Bring a good camera with extra batteries and don’t forget to turn off the flash, as it can disturb the gorillas.
• Binoculars: Bwindi is home to many bird species and other wildlife. A pair of binoculars will allow you to spot these creatures from a distance.
• Gardening Gloves: These will come in handy when holding onto trees or branches as you navigate through the dense forest.
• Raincoat: Bwindi is a tropical rainforest, so rain showers are common and unpredictable. A lightweight, waterproof raincoat is a must.
• Mosquito Repellent: The forest is home to various insects, so a good mosquito repellent will help keep you safe.
• Sunscreen: If you’re trekking during the hotter months, sunscreen will protect your skin from sunburn.
• Neutral-Colored Clothing: Avoid wearing bright colors, as they may startle the gorillas. It’s also best to avoid black and blue, as these attract Tsetse flies. Stick to neutral colors like khaki, brown or green.

Best Time of Year to Trek the Oruzogo Gorilla Family

The best time to trek the Oruzogo Gorilla Family is during the dry months, from January, February, June, to early September. These months offer easier access to the park and clearer views of the gorillas, as the vegetation is less dense compared to the rainy season.

Why Choose Trek Africa Gorillas for an Exclusive Oruzogo Trek?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we craft personalized, tailor-made safaris. Our dedicated and experienced team is committed to providing you with a seamless and memorable experience. From answering your queries within 20 minutes to planning your entire itinerary, we ensure every detail is taken care of. We also have knowledgeable safari guides who speak various languages to make your journey even more enjoyable.

Book your exclusive trek with the Oruzogo Gorilla Family today and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Trek Africa Gorillas!