Rushaga Gorilla Family Groups -Gorilla Trekking Families in Bwindi

The Rushaga Gorilla Family Groups offer tourists gorilla safaris in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to embark on the thrilling gorilla trekking adventure. Over 10 habituated gorilla families are in the Rushaga sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Rushaga is where the highest profusion of gorilla family groups in Bwindi are located.

The Rushaga gorilla family groups have their dynamic social structure and fascinating interactions/behaviors. These are among the unique features awaiting you to unearth with adventure planners on actual gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda. Rushaga is also the only sector where mountain gorilla habituation is conducted.

Rushaga gorilla families can be observed in the wild and by engaging in the adventure to interact with these large apes, you contribute towards conservation efforts. Your participation also plays a significant role in the promotion of sustainable tourism.

At Rushaga sector/region/area, each gorilla family comprises a dominant silverback plus multiple females, and offspring. During visitor interaction, you must be keen enough to observe the playful behaviors of the youngsters and the protective nature as demonstrated by the silverbacks. Take note that gorilla interactions in their groups are essential in maintaining family cohesion and ensuring the survival of the family unit.

The social bonds of gorilla groups in Rushaga are achieved through play, grooming, and communication. These play a significant role in strengthening the gorilla family members. Rushaga sector is one of the best regions in the Southern end of Bwindi where visitors can experience the best gorilla trekking safari in Uganda.

Rushaga is found near the Uganda border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. At the Rushaga, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding Virunga Volcanoes/Mountain Massifs.

Rushaga Gorilla Family Groups

Below are the fully habituated gorilla groups in the Rushaga sector in Bwindi. The 10 Rushaga gorilla family groups to explore on gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park include the Mishaya group, Nshongi gorilla family, Kutu, Mucunguzi, Rwigyi, Kahungye, Busingye, and others. These are among the Best gorilla trekking families in Rushaga sector to consider visiting;

Mishaya family group

The Mishaya gorilla family group split from the Nshongi group as of July 2010. At the time of formation, Mishaya comprised of only 7 individuals but the membership increased. Currently, Mishaya has 12 mountain gorillas under the leadership of Mishaya silverback gorilla. Mishaya silverback is where the Mishaya gorilla family group derives its name.

Bweza gorilla family group

Bweza is one of the best Rushaga gorilla family groups to explore on a gorilla trekking tour in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Bweza group split from Nshongi in 2013 and currently has a composition of 12 members.

The group consists of adult females, blackbacks, silverbacks, and infants. Bweza was officially opened to tourists in 2012 and today, this group can be explored during gorilla trekking in the Rushaga sector in Bwindi.

Nshongi gorilla family group

Nshongi was once the largest group with more than 32 individuals. The group derives its name from the Nshongi River. It is led by the Nshongi silverback gorilla. Unfortunately, due to continued breaks and other natural factors, Nshongi’s composition was reduced to about 10 members. The Nshongi gorilla group family is among the most peaceful groups in the Rushaga sector in Bwindi National Park.

Busingye -One of the best Rushaga Gorilla Family Groups

The Busingye gorilla family was originally part of the Kahungye gorilla group. It broke away from the Kahungye group in August 2012. Formation of Busingye is a great addition to the already habituated gorilla families in Bwindi and also presents a higher chance for visitors to engage in gorilla trekking. Busingye is comprised of 10 members and takes its name from the Busingye silverback gorilla.

 

Kahungye group family

Kahungye underwent habituation for 2 years and by 2011, it was ready for trekking. During habituation, the Kahungye gorilla family featured 29 members which included 3 silverbacks. The group was spotted on Kahungye hill where it takes its name. Currently, Kahungye has 17 individuals including Silverback and other members.

Bikingi

The Bikingi gorilla family is among the unusual gorilla groups in the Rushaga region. The habituation process of the Bikingi was completed by 2016. Bikingi broke away from Mishaya.

Rwigyi -One of the best Rushaga Gorilla Family Groups

The Rwigyi gorilla family is listed among the top gorilla groups in the Rushaga sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This group takes its name from the Rwigyi silverback gorilla. It was formed following the internal fights in the Kahungye. Rwigyi left the Kahungye gorilla family to form his own. He went with some females and infants from the Kahungye gorilla group.

Mucunguzi gorilla group

The Mucunguzi gorilla family group is known as Savior and is led by the Mucunguzi silverback gorilla. Mucunguzi developed a misunderstanding in the Bweza group leading to his spilt. Today, the Mucunguzi group has a composition of 10 individuals including several females.

Kutu -One of the best Rushaga Gorilla Family Groups

The Kutu gorilla family in Rushaga is led by the Ndugu silverback gorilla. Kutu is among the newly habituated groups available for trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The Kutu group has a composition of about 20 members consisting of infants, juveniles, one silverback, females, and others.

Tindatine gorilla family group

Tindatine gorilla group is a new family of mountain gorillas and it was officially opened for gorilla tourism in 2024. Initially, this group belonged to the Nshongi gorilla family in the Rushaga sector.

Gorilla trekking in Rushaga (More details About Rushaga Gorilla Fmaily Groups)

Rushaga is one of the preferred regions in Bwindi to visit for a gorilla trekking adventure. A normal trekking session with mountain gorillas takes about 2-6 hours which is inclusive of 1 hour for magical encounters and photography.

Rushaga gorilla trekking permits

Gorilla permits are available for booking at USD 800 per visitor and there is only a single gorilla trek conducted each day. The Uganda gorilla permit obtained is valid for only one gorilla trek.

Gorilla safari lodges in Rushaga sector

Available accommodation options in the Rushaga region/sector include Rushaga Gorilla Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Bweza Gorilla Lodge, and more.

When is the best time to go for the Rushaga gorilla trekking?

Rushaga welcomes enthusiastic primate trekkers all year round. But the dry season is the best for you to explore mountain gorillas and trekking through the jungle. The first phase of the dry season occurs from June to September then another phase begins from December to February.

What to carry for Uganda gorilla safari in Rushaga region

Essentials to include on the Rushaga gorilla trekking packing list; long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, a daypack, a camera, a first aid kit, insect repellents, a safari hat, and bottled drinking water. Visitors also need valid visas, energy-giving snacks, safari hats, and others.