Gorilla Families in the Buhoma Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
The Buhoma sector is located in the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda. Known as the most popular sector for gorilla trekking, Buhoma offers tourists a unique opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The sector was the first to open for gorilla trekking in 1993 with the Mubare Gorilla Family, and today it boasts five habituated groups. These families include:
- Mubare Gorilla Family
- Rushegura Gorilla Family
- Habinyanja Gorilla Family
- Katwe Gorilla Family
- Muyambi Gorilla Family
Each family has its own distinct characteristics, offering diverse experiences for those seeking the adventure of gorilla trekking in Uganda.
1. Mubare Gorilla Family
The Mubare Gorilla Family is the oldest and most iconic group in the Buhoma sector. Named after the nearby Mubare Hill, it was the first family to be habituated for gorilla trekking in 1993. Initially led by the legendary silverback Ruhondeza, the group has undergone many changes, now consisting of 9 members led by the dominant silverback Malaya.
Visitors to the Mubare family can expect a peaceful and calm trekking experience, with sightings of the gorillas feeding, grooming, and playing. Due to their gentle nature, this family is ideal for tourists new to gorilla trekking.
2. Habinyanja Gorilla Family
The Habinyanja Gorilla Family is another popular group in Buhoma, known for its adventurous nature. The group was habituated in 1996 and originally led by the silverback Mugurusi. After his death, a leadership dispute led to the splitting of the group, with Rwansigazi and Mwirima forming a new family called Rushegura.
The Habinyanja group currently consists of 17 members, led by the silverback Makara. Trekkers visiting this group will experience a dynamic and lively atmosphere as the gorillas are highly active, often moving around and engaging with their surroundings.
3. Rushegura Gorilla Family
Formed after splitting from the Habinyanja group, the Rushegura Gorilla Family is one of the largest groups in the Buhoma sector, with 21 members. Initially led by silverback Mwirima, the group is now led by Kabukojo following Mwirima’s death in 2014.
Known for its close-knit bonds and peaceful demeanor, the Rushegura family is a popular choice for trekkers seeking a more relaxed and serene experience. The group is often spotted near the park’s headquarters, making it an excellent option for shorter treks and offering high chances of sighting these magnificent animals.
4. Muyambi Gorilla Family
The Muyambi Gorilla Family is a smaller group in the Buhoma sector, with only 6 members. It was formed by silverback Muyambi, a former member of the Mubare family who split off to establish his own group.
Tourists trekking the Muyambi group can expect a more laid-back experience. The gorillas are known for their inquisitive nature, often interacting with each other and exploring their surroundings.
5. Katwe Gorilla Family
The Katwe Gorilla Family is one of the newest additions to the Buhoma sector, formed in 2019. Named after the hillside where they were first habituated, this group is led by the silverback Mahaane. The group consists of 7 members, including two blackbacks and two adult females.
While still relatively new to tourism, the Katwe family offers a unique experience for those interested in observing the behavior of a recently habituated group.
Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma Sector
Each gorilla family in the Buhoma sector contributes to the conservation of mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Trekking through this sector allows tourists to witness the incredible social dynamics of these primates, all while supporting vital eco-tourism efforts that help protect these endangered species.
Visitors should follow the guidelines provided by the park to ensure the well-being of the gorillas and minimize the risk of disease transmission. The Buhoma sector’s easy accessibility and well-developed trekking infrastructure make it one of the top destinations for gorilla trekking in Uganda.
