The Kahungye gorilla family is found in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, in the districts of Kabale, Kanungu, and Kisoro.
The Kahungye gorilla family was opened for trekking in 2011, and at the time of habituation, it had 27 members.
The family derives its name from the Kahungye Hills in Rushaga, where it was first sighted.
Currently, the Kahungye gorilla family comprises 17 members, which include 3 silverbacks, 3 adult females, 3 juveniles, and 2 infants, under the leadership of Gwigi.
The number of members in this family changes due to deaths, new births, and group splits. This family split to form a new group called the Busingye gorilla group.
Best Time to Trek
The Kahungye gorilla family can be trekked any time of the year; however, the dry season is the best. The dry months are from June to August and December to February.
Trekking Tips
- Maintain a distance of 7 meters from the gorillas.
- Children below the age of 15 are not allowed to trek.
- Flashlight cameras are prohibited, as they may threaten the gorillas.
- Eating in the presence of gorillas is prohibited.
- Physical fitness is highly encouraged for better trekking.
- Tourists are advised to carry lunch boxes and water.
Trekking the Kahungye Gorilla Family
Trekking begins early in the morning when the gorillas are most active. Tourists first head to the park headquarters for a briefing on the rules and regulations, then proceed to the lush forests with a well-trained park ranger.
Only eight tourists are allowed to visit this family per day, and they can spend only one hour with the gorillas once they are located.
What to Carry
- Drinking water
- Energy snacks
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Insect repellent
- Hiking shoes
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Long trousers
Accommodation
- Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
- Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
- Gorilla Valley Lodge
- Gorilla Safari Lodge
- Nshongi Camp
- Rushaga Gorilla Camp
By and large, the Kahungye gorilla family is one of those with the highest number of individuals, making it a fun and rewarding group to trek.