January 7, 2026
Gorilla Families of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the heart of gorilla trekking in Uganda and one of the most important conservation areas in Africa. The park is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, living in carefully protected forest habitats.
What makes Bwindi especially unique is the large number of habituated gorilla families available for trekking. This offers visitors flexibility, high success rates, and a wide range of trekking experiences — from short, gentle hikes to challenging full-day adventures.
This guide explores the gorilla families of Bwindi, their trekking sectors, characteristics, and how to choose the best family for your safari with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris.
How Many Gorilla Families Are in Bwindi?
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park currently has:
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20+ habituated gorilla families open for trekking
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Additional families under habituation
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Gorilla groups spread across four trekking sectors
Each gorilla family is visited by a maximum of 8 tourists per day, ensuring minimal disturbance and a high-quality experience.
Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Sectors
Bwindi is divided into four main gorilla trekking sectors, each hosting different gorilla families:
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Buhoma Sector
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Ruhija Sector
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Rushaga Sector
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Nkuringo Sector
Your gorilla family depends on:
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Permit availability
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Physical fitness level
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Preferred accommodation location
Gorilla Families in Buhoma Sector
The Buhoma sector is the oldest and most popular trekking area in Bwindi.
1. Mubare Gorilla Family
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Habituated: 1993 (first in Uganda)
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Location: Buhoma
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Trek difficulty: Moderate
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Notable for: Historic significance
2. Habinyanja Gorilla Family
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Habituated: 1997
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Location: Buhoma
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Trek difficulty: Moderate to challenging
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Notable for: Strong dominant silverback
3. Rushegura Gorilla Family
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Habituated: 2002
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Location: Buhoma
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Trek difficulty: Relatively easy
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Notable for: Calm behavior and stability
Gorilla Families in Ruhija Sector
The Ruhija sector lies in eastern Bwindi and is known for cooler temperatures and scenic views.
4. Bitukura Gorilla Family
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Habituated: 2008
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Trek difficulty: Moderate
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Notable for: Peaceful interactions and cohesion
5. Oruzogo Gorilla Family
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Habituated: 2011
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Trek difficulty: Moderate
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Notable for: Playful juveniles and excellent photography
6. Kyaguriro Gorilla Family
(Research only – not always available for tourism)
Gorilla Families in Rushaga Sector
The Rushaga sector in southern Bwindi has the highest number of gorilla families, offering excellent permit availability.
7. Nshongi Gorilla Family
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Once the largest gorilla family ever recorded
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Trek difficulty: Moderate
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Notable for: Group dynamics and size history
8. Mishaya Gorilla Family
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Formed after a split from Nshongi
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Trek difficulty: Moderate
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Notable for: Energetic silverback leadership
9. Kahungye Gorilla Family
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Large family with multiple silverbacks
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Trek difficulty: Moderate to challenging
10. Bweza Gorilla Family
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Splinter group from Kahungye
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Trek difficulty: Moderate
11. Mucunguzi Gorilla Family
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Known for wide-ranging movements
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Trek difficulty: Challenging
12. Busingye Gorilla Family
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Dominant silverback known for assertiveness
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Trek difficulty: Moderate
Gorilla Families in Nkuringo Sector
The Nkuringo sector offers some of the most challenging but rewarding treks.
13. Nkuringo Gorilla Family
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Habituated in 2004
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Trek difficulty: Challenging
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Notable for: Rugged terrain and scenic views
14. Bushaho Gorilla Family
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Splinter group from Nkuringo
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Trek difficulty: Challenging
Gorilla Habituation Families (Special Experience)
Bwindi also offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience, allowing up to 4 hours with gorillas.
Habituation Groups (Rushaga Sector)
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Still learning human presence
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Fewer visitors per group
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Ideal for photographers and researchers
How Gorilla Families Are Assigned
On trekking day, Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers assign visitors based on:
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Fitness level
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Age considerations
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Gorilla family location
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Weather conditions
💡 Always inform your guide of any fitness or health concerns.
Success Rate of Seeing Gorilla Families in Bwindi
Bwindi boasts a 95–99% success rate for gorilla sightings because:
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Gorillas are non-migratory
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Trackers monitor families daily
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Multiple families are available per sector
Best Gorilla Families for First-Time Trekkers
For easier treks, consider:
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Rushegura (Buhoma)
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Bitukura (Ruhija)
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Oruzogo (Ruhija)
For adventurous trekkers:
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Nkuringo Family
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Mucunguzi Family
Best Time to See Gorilla Families in Bwindi
Gorilla families can be visited year-round, but trekking is easier during:
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June–September
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December–February
Why Book Bwindi Gorilla Trekking with Monumental Gorilla Tours?
Monumental Expeditions and Safaris specializes in Bwindi gorilla safaris, offering:
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Guaranteed permits
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Expert local guides
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Personalized family selection advice
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Seamless logistics
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Ethical and responsible tourism
Final Thoughts
The gorilla families of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park make Uganda one of the most rewarding destinations for gorilla trekking in Africa. With numerous habituated families, varied terrain, and high success rates, Bwindi offers an unmatched gorilla experience for every type of traveler.
Whether you want an easy trek, a challenging adventure, or an extended habituation experience, Monumental Expeditions and Safaris will help you choose the perfect gorilla family for your unforgettable safari.
