How Many Gorilla Families Are in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

Deep within the lush, mist-covered highlands of southwestern Uganda lies Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — one of the world’s most extraordinary natural treasures. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, often described as “Africa’s most ancient rainforest,” is home to an incredible array of biodiversity, but it is most famous for one thing — the mountain gorillas.

Bwindi is not just a national park; it’s a sanctuary that shelters more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it the ultimate destination for gorilla trekking enthusiasts. For travelers planning a visit, one of the most common questions is: How many gorilla families are in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

As of 2025, Bwindi is home to over 22 habituated gorilla families that are open for tourism, along with several others that are being habituated for future trekking experiences. Each family is unique, with its own hierarchy, personalities, and intriguing social dynamics.

In this in-depth article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Bwindi’s gorilla families — how they are structured, where they live, and what makes each one special. We’ll also break down the park’s four trekking sectors and highlight why traveling with Muhiga Safaris ensures an unforgettable, expertly guided experience.

Understanding Gorilla Families

Before diving into the details, it’s helpful to understand what a gorilla family actually is.

A gorilla family — also called a group or troop — is a cohesive social unit usually led by a dominant silverback male. A typical family consists of:

• One or more silverbacks (adult males)

• Several adult females

• Juveniles and infants

The silverback serves as the protector and decision-maker of the family, determining where the group feeds, rests, and sleeps. Females care for their young, and juveniles spend their days playing, learning, and exploring the forest.

In Bwindi, these families inhabit different parts of the forest and are carefully habituated — meaning they have undergone a years-long process of getting used to human presence under the supervision of trained researchers and rangers. This habituation process ensures that gorillas are comfortable with limited human interaction during treks, minimizing stress and maintaining natural behavior.

The Four Gorilla Trekking Sectors in Bwindi

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park covers 331 square kilometers of dense rainforest, stretching across steep valleys, ridges, and rivers. To manage tourism sustainably, the park is divided into four main trekking regions, each home to distinct gorilla families.

These sectors are:

1. Buhoma (North)

2. Ruhija (East)

3. Rushaga (South)

4. Nkuringo (Southwest)

Each sector offers a unique gorilla trekking experience, with varying terrain, accommodation options, and accessibility.

1. Buhoma Sector – The Birthplace of Gorilla Trekking

Located in the northern part of Bwindi, Buhoma is the most famous and historically significant sector — it’s where gorilla trekking in Uganda began in 1993.

Gorilla Families in Buhoma:

a) Mubare Family

• The Oldest Group in Uganda — first habituated in 1993.

• Named after the Mubare Hills where they were first spotted.

• Initially led by the powerful silverback Ruhondeza, who ruled for decades before passing away.

• Currently consists of several members, including one silverback and multiple females and juveniles.

b) Rushegura Family

• A calm and friendly group that occasionally visits nearby lodges and villages.

• Split from the Habinyanja group in 2002.

• Known for its accessibility and short trekking distance.

c) Habinyanja Family

• One of Bwindi’s most famous groups, known for its complex social structure.

• The name “Habinyanja” means “place of water,” referring to the swampy area where the group was first observed.

• The group is moderately challenging to trek due to their wide-ranging movements.

d) Katwe Family

• One of the newer families in Buhoma.

• Offers shorter treks suitable for visitors seeking less strenuous routes.

Buhoma is ideal for first-time trekkers, as the terrain is relatively gentle and the area has a wide selection of high-end lodges and eco-luxury accommodations.

2. Ruhija Sector – The Scenic Eastern Highlands

The Ruhija sector lies in the eastern part of Bwindi, at an altitude of over 2,300 meters. It’s known for its breathtaking views, cool climate, and tranquil atmosphere.

Gorilla Families in Ruhija:

a) Bitukura Family

• Named after the Bitukura River where they were first encountered.

• This peaceful and playful family has multiple silverbacks who coexist harmoniously — a rare phenomenon in gorilla society.

• Known for being one of the most well-behaved groups to visit.

b) Oruzogo Family

• A lively group known for its energetic youngsters and entertaining behavior.

• Great for photographers seeking active, playful interactions.

c) Kyaguriro Family

• Previously reserved for research and scientific studies, but occasionally open for trekking.

• Provides insights into gorilla social behavior and ecology.

Ruhija’s combination of scenic views and manageable hiking trails makes it a favorite among travelers who want both adventure and serenity.

3. Rushaga Sector – The Largest and Most Diverse

Located in the southern part of Bwindi, Rushaga boasts the highest concentration of gorilla families in the park — making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking variety and flexibility. It is also the only sector where the Gorilla Habituation Experience takes place.

Gorilla Families in Rushaga:

a) Bweza Family

• Split from the Nshongi family, one of the park’s largest original groups.

• Known for its calm and photogenic nature.

b) Nshongi Family

• Once the biggest gorilla family in Bwindi with over 30 members.

• Named after the Nshongi River.

• Still among the most engaging groups for visitors.

c) Kahungye Family

• A vibrant group with multiple silverbacks and playful infants.

• Trekking this family often involves moderate hiking and scenic trails.

d) Busingye Family

• Known for the assertive and dominant silverback Busingye, whose name means “peace” in the local Rukiga language — ironically, he’s known for his spirited and occasionally aggressive nature.

e) Mishaya Family

• Formed after a split from the Nshongi group.

• Led by the adventurous silverback Mishaya, who was known for his encounters with other groups.

f) Mucunguzi Family

• One of the newer families, its name means “Savior.”

• Known for friendly and stable interactions.

g) Kutu Family (Habituation Group)

• Currently undergoing the Gorilla Habituation Experience, allowing visitors to spend four hours with them instead of the usual one hour.

The Rushaga sector offers a wide selection of lodges and is perfect for those looking for flexibility in permit availability or those interested in the extended habituation adventure.

4. Nkuringo Sector – The Challenging and Scenic Frontier

Nkuringo, located in the southwestern part of Bwindi, is famous for its steep terrain, rewarding views, and a sense of untouched wilderness. It’s also home to one of Bwindi’s most iconic gorilla families.

Gorilla Families in Nkuringo:

a) Nkuringo Family

• The first group habituated in this sector.

• Known for its strength and resilience — the name “Nkuringo” means “round hill,” describing the group’s home range.

• Trekking this group is physically demanding but highly rewarding due to panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes and Lake Bunyonyi.

b) Bushaho Family

• Formed after a split from the Nkuringo group.

• Led by a silverback named Bahati, this family is known for its playful juveniles and calm temperament.

c) Christmas Family

• Named after the silverback “Christmas,” born on December 25th.

• A relatively new but well-established group, offering an intimate trekking experience.

Nkuringo is ideal for adventure seekers and experienced trekkers who don’t mind steep climbs in exchange for unmatched scenery and solitude.

In Total: How Many Gorilla Families Are in Bwindi?

As of now, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park hosts over 22 habituated gorilla families available for trekking, plus a few others reserved for research or still undergoing habituation.

Here’s a summary:

Total: 22+ habituated families.

Additionally, Bwindi has several unhabituated groups deep within the forest, which remain undisturbed by human presence, ensuring the continued natural evolution of wild populations.

The Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi

While most visitors spend one hour observing a habituated gorilla family, Bwindi also offers a unique Gorilla Habituation Experience in the Rushaga sector.

This exclusive activity allows visitors to spend up to four hours with a gorilla group still in the process of getting used to humans. Accompanied by researchers and trackers, participants gain deeper insight into gorilla behavior, conservation, and the challenges of protecting these endangered primates.

Permits for this experience cost USD 1,500 per person, but it’s one of the most immersive wildlife encounters in the world.

Why So Many Families?

Bwindi’s diverse topography and vegetation provide an ideal habitat for gorillas to thrive and multiply. Over the years, as gorilla populations have grown and new families have formed due to group splits, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has continued to habituate more groups for tourism.

This controlled expansion allows for sustainable tourism, ensuring that the park can accommodate visitors without putting pressure on any single gorilla family.

Why Travel with Muhiga Safaris

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is not just a safari — it’s a pilgrimage into the heart of nature. However, navigating permits, sectors, logistics, and accommodations can be complex. That’s why partnering with an experienced operator like Muhiga Safaris makes all the difference.

Muhiga Safaris is one of Uganda’s most trusted tour operators, specializing in tailor-made gorilla trekking experiences that cater to all types of travelers. Their expertise ensures you are assigned the right gorilla family based on your fitness level, interests, and preferences.

Here’s what you can expect when you travel with Muhiga Safaris:

• Guaranteed permit booking and hassle-free coordination.

• Knowledgeable local guides passionate about wildlife and conservation.

• Comfortable lodges near each trekking sector.

• Seamless transportation between parks and destinations.

• Customized itineraries combining gorilla trekking with safaris, cultural tours, or lake retreats.

Muhiga Safaris also promotes sustainable tourism, supporting conservation and local communities so that every trek you take leaves a positive impact.

Conclusion

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to over 22 habituated gorilla families, spread across four beautifully diverse sectors. Each family tells a story — of resilience, family bonds, and coexistence in one of Earth’s most pristine ecosystems.

Whether you trek the historic Mubare group in Buhoma, the playful Oruzogo family in Ruhija, or the scenic Nkuringo clan in the highlands, every encounter is deeply moving and unforgettable.

When you’re ready to meet these gentle giants in the wild, let Muhiga Safaris guide your journey. With their expertise, professionalism, and passion for adventure, they’ll ensure your gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi is seamless, safe, and truly extraordinary.