Uganda Mountain Gorillas

Mountain Gorillas in Uganda – A Complete Guide by Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

The mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) is a large great ape found only in East and Central Africa. It is the world’s largest living primate, known for its size, strength, and thick fur that helps it survive in cold, high-altitude environments.

Mountain gorillas can be identified by their unique nose prints, similar to human fingerprints. They are the most endangered gorilla species and the only type found in Uganda. More than half of the world’s mountain gorilla population lives on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda.

Are Gorillas Aggressive?

While gorillas are generally peaceful and shy, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened or need to defend their group. They live in tight family groups and will protect their members if necessary. Most of the time, however, they avoid confrontation and retreat when humans approach.

Where to Find Mountain Gorillas in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park hosts the largest number of mountain gorillas in the country and in the world. It is the only park where mountain gorillas and chimpanzees coexist.

A gorilla trekking permit is required to visit the gorillas:

USD 800 for foreign non-residents
USD 700 for foreign residents
UGX 300,000 for Ugandan citizens

Permits can be booked through the Uganda Wildlife Authority in Kampala or via reputable tour operators such as Monumental Expeditions and Safaris. Due to high demand, permits should be booked several months in advance.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

This park is part of the Virunga Mountain range and also home to mountain gorillas. It lies at Uganda’s border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Best Activities with Mountain Gorillas

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows visitors to spend time observing these endangered animals in their natural habitat. Bwindi has 22 habituated gorilla families available for trekking, spread across four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

For those seeking a deeper encounter, the gorilla habituation experience allows visitors to spend up to four hours with gorillas undergoing the habituation process. This experience is available in the southern part of Bwindi and costs USD 1,500. Only four people are allowed per habituated group.

Habituated Gorilla Families in Uganda

Uganda began habituating gorilla families in 1991. Today, 22 gorilla groups are open to trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga. Below are some of the key habituated families:

In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

Mubare Group (Buhoma): The first habituated group, opened in 1993.
Habinyanja Group (Buhoma): Formed in 1997; currently led by Silverback Makara.
Rushengura Group (Buhoma): A split from Habinyanja, led by Mwirima since 2002.
Oruzogo Group (Ruhija): Welcomed its first trekkers in 2011.
Katwe Group (Buhoma): One of the newest groups, habituated in 2018.
Bitukura Group (Ruhija): Habituated in 2007, known for its peaceful nature.
Kyaguriro Group (Ruhija): Originally for research, now open to trekkers.
Nshongi Group (Rushaga): Once had 36 members; currently has 25.
Mishaya Group (Rushaga): Split from Nshongi in 2010.
Kahungye Group (Rushaga): Habituated in 2011, later split to form Busingye.
Busingye Group (Rushaga): Formed in 2015 after splitting from Kahungye.
Bweza Group (Rushaga): Formed in 2013 after leaving Nshongi.
Bikingi Group (Rushaga): Originated from Mishaya in 2012.
Rwigi Group (Rushaga): New group, opened in 2019.
Nkuringo Group (Nkuringo): Known for crop raiding before habituation; opened in 2004.
Bushaho Group (Nkuringo): Offshoot of the Nkuringo family.
Mukiza Group (Ruhija): Split from Kyaguriro group in 2016.
Kutu Group (Rushaga): Habituated and open to trekkers.
Mucunguzi Group (Rushaga): Formed after a split from Bweza, led by a dominant female.

In Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

Nyakagezi Group: The only habituated group in Mgahinga. It includes four silverbacks—Bugingo (aged over 54), Mark, Mathew, and Mafia. Remarkably, Bugingo was overthrown but allowed to remain in the group, a rare occurrence among gorillas.

Conclusion

Uganda is one of the best destinations in the world for gorilla trekking, offering unforgettable experiences in both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Whether you choose a standard gorilla trek or a special habituation experience, Monumental Expeditions and Safaris can assist in organizing your visit to ensure a memorable and responsible encounter with these majestic primates.