The Rushegura gorilla family was formed when silverback Mwirima split from his original group after the death of his father, Mukurisi. Leadership was left to Mwirima and his brother Rwansigazi, but the two had differences. Mwirima preferred a small home range, while Rwansigazi liked to explore a larger area. The split was peaceful, and even today, the two families sometimes meet.
The name Rushegura comes from the place where the split happened in February 2002. By 2010, Mwirima had increased his family from 8 to 19 members, with many of them being his offspring. After Mwirima’s death, Kabukojo, who was then a blackback, took over leadership. Rushegura is one of the easiest groups to trek in Bwindi and is often seen near the park headquarters, which shortens trekking time.
Trekking the Rushegura Gorilla Group
Rushegura gorilla family can be trekked from the Buhoma sector of Bwindi. The activity starts early in the morning, and only 8 people are allowed to visit the family each day. The trek may take between 30 minutes and 5 hours depending on the family’s location and the pace of the hikers. Once found, visitors are allowed one hour to observe and take photos.
What to Carry
Gorilla trekking requires physical fitness, but preparation is also important. Gorillas live in tropical rainforests where it can rain at any time, even in the dry season. You should carry:
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Garden gloves
- Rain jacket or coat
- Warm clothing
- Drinking water
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Energy snacks
Best Time to Visit
The best time to trek mountain gorillas in Uganda is from June to August and December to February. During these months, the roads leading to the parks are in good condition, and the trekking trails are less muddy and slippery.
Uganda is home to half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking in Uganda can be done in Mgahinga National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Mountain gorillas can only survive in the wild and not in zoos, which is why you must visit Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” to encounter these close relatives of humans.
Uganda is also the only country in the world where visitors can join rangers and researchers in the daily work of gorilla habituation. This process helps gorillas get used to human presence and normally takes 2–3 years before a family can be opened for trekking.
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