The gorilla family allocation process refers to the method of assigning gorilla groups to tourists in the national park. This process is carried out in the four sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija, and Nkuringo.
Mountain gorillas live in different areas of Bwindi. Some live in higher altitudes, while others live in lower areas. The locations of these gorillas are an important factor, as some families are easier to allocate while others are harder to reach.
The gorilla allocation process depends on factors such as the tourists’ interests, age, and physical fitness. Mountain gorillas need to be allocated because they keep moving throughout the day, searching for food and safe places to rest.
Before the allocation, tourists are required to secure a gorilla permit with the Uganda Wildlife Authority, which is an essential requirement for trekking mountain gorillas. Early in the morning, trackers are sent into the forest to locate the gorilla families. They then send feedback to the park rangers, who assign groups of eight tourists to a particular gorilla family for trekking.
Tourists are allowed to choose the sector from which they wish to trek the gorillas. However, children below the age of 15 are not allowed to trek gorillas. This rule is set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, as younger children are more prone to diseases and may not follow trekking rules and regulations.
Some of the gorilla families in the four sectors of bwindi include:
Buhoma
- Mubare Family
- Habinyanja Family
- Rushegura Family
- Katwe Family
- Muyambi Family
Rushaga
- Nshongi Family
- Mishaya Family
- Kahungye Family
- Bweza Family
- Bikingi Family
- Rwigi Family
- Mucunguzi Family
Nkuringo
- Nkuringo Family
- Bushaho Family
- Christmas Family
Ruhija
- Oruzogo Family
- Bitukura Family
- Kyaguriro Family A and B
The gorilla trekking allocation process is an important step for tourists to trek mountain gorillas based on their interests and physical fitness.
