Mountain Gorilla Families in Ruhija Sector

Mountain Gorilla Families in Ruhija Sector – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Discover the incredible mountain gorilla families in the Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—a serene, less-crowded region nestled in the eastern part of the park. Tucked between Kabale town and the famous Buhoma sector, Ruhija is home to four unique and fascinating habituated gorilla families: Bitukura, Kyaguriro, Oruzogo, and Mukiza (also known as Kyaguriro B).

Planning a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking safari? Ruhija sector offers intimate, unforgettable encounters with some of the last remaining mountain gorillas on Earth. Let’s explore the amazing gorilla families of Ruhija and how you can be part of this life-changing adventure.

Meet the Mountain Gorilla Families in Ruhija Sector

Bitukura Gorilla Family – The Peaceful Giants of Ruhija

The Bitukura gorilla family is one of the most established mountain gorilla families in the Ruhija sector, named after the river where they were first spotted. What makes Bitukura unique is that it was fully habituated in just one year (2007–2008)—a rare accomplishment compared to the typical 2–3-year process.

This friendly family is known for its calm demeanor and strong social bonds. It currently consists of 13 members, including four silverbacks: Ndahura (the dominant leader), Rukumu, Rukara, and the retired elder Karamuzi. You’ll also encounter adult females, blackbacks, juveniles, and playful infants during your trek.

👉 Book your Ruhija gorilla trekking permit today to experience the warmth and grace of the Bitukura family.

Kyaguriro Gorilla Family – Ruhija’s Research Legends

Kyaguriro was the first mountain gorilla family in the Ruhija sector to be habituated (in 1999), initially for research purposes. Over time, its compelling story has attracted trekkers from around the world.

Led first by Zeus and later by Rukina (after a dramatic leadership takeover), the group eventually split into two: Kyaguriro A, now led by silverback Rukara, and Kyaguriro B (Mukiza), led by the assertive Mukiza.

• Kyaguriro A: 10 members, including 1 silverback and a mix of females, blackbacks, juveniles, and infants.

• Kyaguriro B (Mukiza family): 10 members, with a strong female presence and several infants.

💡 Want to track a group with a deep history and unique family dynamics? Choose the Kyaguriro families for your Ruhija experience.

Oruzogo Gorilla Family – Ruhija’s Energetic Adventurers

Among the most popular mountain gorilla families in the Ruhija sector is the lively Oruzogo family. Named after a local plant species where they were first discovered, Oruzogo is revered for its energy and boldness, especially among tourists.

Habituated in 2011, the Oruzogo family boasts 17 members, including Bakwata (the leading silverback), adult females, blackbacks, sub-adults, and a charming bunch of infants.

📸 Capture unforgettable moments as you witness this charismatic family interact, feed, and play in the dense forests of Bwindi.

Gorilla Trekking Experience with Mountain Gorilla Families in Ruhija Sector

Trekking to see the mountain gorilla families in Ruhija sector begins early with a detailed briefing by experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. Visitors are grouped into teams of 8 and assigned a specific gorilla family based on fitness levels and trekking preferences.

The trek can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views, encounter birds and other primates, and immerse yourself in the forest’s magical ambiance.

Once you reach your designated gorilla family, you’ll spend one awe-inspiring hour in their presence, watching them groom, feed, nap, and care for their young.

🎟 Gorilla trekking permits in Ruhija sector:

• $800 – Foreign non-residents

• $700 – Foreign residents

• UGX 250,000 – East African citizens

🔗 Book your Ruhija gorilla permit now with Outback Adventure Safaris for a hassle-free, expertly guided safari.

Best Time to Visit the Mountain Gorilla Families in Ruhija Sector

The mountain gorilla families in Ruhija sector can be visited year-round, but the best experience is during the dry seasons—from June to September and December to February. Trails are drier and easier to navigate, and visibility in the forest is higher, allowing for better photography and viewing opportunities.

🌿 Pro tip: Booking early for dry-season dates is highly recommended due to high demand.

Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija Sector

From budget to mid-range lodges, Ruhija offers a range of comfortable accommodation options close to the park entrance. Top recommendations include:

• Bakiga Lodge

• Gift of Nature Lodge

• Trekkers Tavern Cottages

• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge

• Broadbill Forest Camp

• Ruhija Gorilla Friends Resort

🏕️ Let us help you select the best lodge for your comfort and budget.

How to Get to Ruhija Sector – Gateway to the Mountain Gorilla Families

By Road:

• From Entebbe/Kampala: About 8 hours via Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale.

• From Kigali (Rwanda): 3–4 hours via the Katuna border.

By Air:

• Fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kihihi Airstrip, then drive 2–3 hours to Ruhija. Flights are available via Aerolink Uganda.

🚐 Outback Adventure Safaris provides both air and road transfers, ensuring a smooth, scenic journey to the Ruhija sector.

Why Choose Ruhija Sector for Gorilla Trekking?

Ruhija offers a quieter, more intimate gorilla trekking experience than other sectors of Bwindi. With fewer tourists and richly forested terrain, the chance to deeply connect with the mountain gorilla families in the Ruhija sector is unmatched.

🌟 Ready to meet the mountain gorillas of Ruhija?
Start planning your trek today with Outback Adventure Safaris. We handle everything—from permits to transport, accommodation, and guiding—so all you need to do is enjoy the experience of a lifetime.

📞 Contact us now to customize your gorilla safari in the Ruhija sector.