Gorilla Trekking Just Got Better: 24 Gorilla Families Await You in Uganda

If gorilla trekking is on your dream safari is the perfect time to go. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park now has 24 habituated mountain gorilla families open for trekking — up from 19 — thanks to the addition of 5 new groups across the Buhoma, Rushaga, and Nkuringo sectors.

This expansion means:

• More trekking permits available
• More flexibility in booking
• Greater chances to encounter gorilla families in the wild

The Uganda Wildlife Authority officially opened the five new groups on January 17, 2024, making it even easier for visitors to witness one of the world’s most awe-inspiring wildlife experiences: observing endangered mountain gorillas in their natural rainforest home.

Where Are the New Gorilla Families Located?

The five new gorilla families are found in three sectors of Bwindi:

Buhoma Sector:

• Bunyindo Family
• Muyambi Family

Rushaga Sector:

• Rwigi Family (split from Kahungye group)
• Tindatine Family (split from Shongi group)

Nkuringo Sector:

• Posho Family (led by silverback Magara, includes 14 members)

These mountain gorilla families have gone through a thorough four-year habituation process, making them safe and ready for responsible human interaction.

Get to Know the Mountain Gorilla Families in Uganda

With the addition of new mountain gorilla families in Uganda, there are now 194 gorilla trekking permits daily, up from 152. Each gorilla family can be visited by only 8 people per day, so this expansion offers greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

However, despite the increase in permits, demand continues to far exceed supply — especially among travelers for whom a gorilla trekking safari is a once-in-a-lifetime dream. Permits can sell out months in advance. To avoid disappointment, booking early is more essential than ever.

The Gorilla Families in each Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Buhoma Sector (Northwestern Bwindi)

Buhoma is the oldest and most accessible sector, renowned for its well-established gorilla families and excellent trekking infrastructure.​

1. Mubare Family — 9 members The first habituated gorilla family in Bwindi, opened for tourism in 1993. Led by a dominant silverback, this group offers a rich historical trekking experience.
2. Habinyanja Family — 18 members Named after a swamp (“Nyanja”) where they were first sighted. Known for complex social dynamics and past leadership struggles.
3. Rushegura Family — 21 members Formed in 2002 after splitting from the Habinyanja group. This family is known for its calm nature and frequent sightings near Buhoma lodges.
4. Katwe Family — 7 members A relatively new group, habituated in 2018. Led by silverback Mahaane, they offer a fresh trekking experience.
5. Muyambi Family — 7 members Formed in 2019 when Muyambi split from the Mubare group. This family is ideal for those seeking shorter treks.
6. Binyindo Family — 9 members Habituated in 2021, this group resides near the Ivi River trail, offering serene trekking experiences.

Ruhija Sector (Eastern Bwindi)

Ruhija is known for its high-altitude terrain and offers a more secluded trekking experience with several well-established families.

1. Bitukura Family — 14 members Habituated in 2007, this peaceful group is notable for its four silverbacks coexisting harmoniously.
2. Oruzogo Family — 25 members Known for playful juveniles and energetic infants, making it a favorite among visitors.
3. Kyaguliro Family — 7 members Initially reserved for research, this group has a rich history and offers insights into gorilla behavior. Silverback Rukara is the leader.
4. Mukiza Family — 15 members Formed in 2016 after splitting from Kyaguliro, led by silverback Mukiza. Known for its stability and cohesive structure.

Learn More about a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda

Rushaga Sector (Southern Bwindi)

Rushaga boasts the highest number of habituated gorilla families, making it a prime destination for trekkers.

1. Nshongi Family — 25 members Once the largest group in Bwindi, known for its size and the harmonious coexistence of multiple silverbacks.
2. Mishaya Family — 12 members Formed after a split from Nshongi, led by the formidable silverback Mishaya.
3. Bweza Family — 15 members Another offshoot of Nshongi, this group is known for its calm demeanor and accessibility.
4. Kahungye Family — 17 members Discovered near Kahungye hill, this group is led by silverback Rumanzi and is known for its dynamic social structure.
5. Busingye Family — 9 members Named after the silverback Busingye, meaning “peace,” this group split from Kahungye and is known for its tranquil nature.
6. Bikyingi Family — 15 members Led by silverback Bikyingi, this family is part of the gorilla habituation experience, offering deeper insights into gorilla behavior.
7. Rwigi Family — 10 members A new addition to Rushaga, formed after splitting from Kahungye, led by silverback Rwigi.
8. Tindatine Family — Number of members not specified Formed after breaking away from the Shongi group, this family offers unique trekking experiences.
9. Mucunguzi Family — 8 members An offshoot of Bweza, known for its cohesive structure and relatively easy trekking routes.
10. Kutu Family — 9 members One of the newer families in the region, offering fresh trekking experiences for visitors.

Nkuringo Sector (Southwestern Bwindi)

Nkuringo is known for its challenging treks and rewarding encounters with gorilla families that have rich histories.

1. Nkuringo Family — 19 members Named after the hill where they were first sighted, this group has a storied history and is known for its resilience. It is also the first group where the birth of twins was recorded in 2004.
2. Bushaho Family — 10 members Formed after members split from the Nkuringo group, led by silverback Bahati. Known for its cohesive structure.
3. Christmas Family — 9 members Named after the silverback born on Christmas Day in 2003, this group is among the park’s most engaging families.
4. Posho Family — 14 members A newer group led by silverback Magara, offering fresh trekking experiences in the Nkuringo sector.

With the addition of new families, Bwindi now offers 194 daily gorilla tracking permits, up from the previous 152, enhancing opportunities for visitors to engage in this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Early booking is recommended to secure permits, especially during peak seasons.​

Why More Gorilla Families Matter

The addition of new families has several benefits:

1. Higher Chances of Seeing Gorillas: With more groups to track, visitors are more likely to encounter gorillas quickly — sometimes within just 30 minutes.
2. More Permits Available: From 152 to 194 permits daily, making planning easier for tour operators and travelers.
3. Conservation Support: Tourism generates income that funds ongoing gorilla conservation and community development.

Is It Safe to Track New Gorilla Families?

Yes — all new families have been thoroughly habituated over several years and are comfortable around people. Trained rangers accompany each trek to ensure safety.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

The dry seasons — from June to September and December to February — are ideal for gorilla trekking. Trails are drier and less slippery, making for a more enjoyable hike.

What to Pack for Your Trek

• Sturdy hiking boots
• Long-sleeved shirt and trousers
• Insect repellent
• Waterproof jacket
• Camera
• Backpack
• Sunglasses
• Travel documents and insurance

More in the Nandi Adventures Gorilla Trekking Guide

A Quick History of Gorilla Habituation in Uganda

Uganda began habituating mountain gorillas in 1991, starting with the Mubare and Katendegyere families in the Buhoma sector. Today, Bwindi is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population — 459 out of an estimated 1,063.

Final Thoughts

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park remains one the top gorilla trekking destination. With 24 habituated gorilla families now open to the public, this is the perfect time to embark on your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda. The increased number of families means more intimate encounters, fewer crowds, and a stronger commitment to conservation.