The Mishaya gorilla family is found in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda.
The park spans the districts of Kabale, Kisoro, and Kanungu, covering an area of 321 square kilometers.
Bwindi was established as a national park in 1991 to protect the endangered mountain gorillas, and it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
The park is home to over 350 bird species, 220 butterfly species, and more than 120 mammal species, including approximately 459 individual gorillas.
The Mishaya gorilla family was habituated in 2011 after it separated from the Nshongi gorilla family.
A dominant silverback, Mishaya, defeated the silverback of Nshongi and led 12 members away to form the Mishaya gorilla family.
The size of the family has fluctuated due to new births, deaths, and splits.
In 2014, Mishaya was found dead by park rangers, though the cause of his death remains unknown.
Currently, the Mishaya gorilla family has 8 members, consisting of 1 silverback, 5 adult females, 1 juvenile, and 1 infant.
The group is now led by a dominant silverback named Tinfayo.
Trekking Mishaya Gorilla Family
Gorilla trekking starts early in the morning at 7 a.m. with a briefing at the park headquarters.
Tourists are then grouped into a group of 8 people, as only this number is allowed per family, according to the rules and regulations.
Trekking this family can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours.
However, once the gorillas are located, tourists spend only one hour with them.
Tourists are advised to carry food, water, and other essential items.
Cost of Mishaya Gorilla Permits
- USD 800 for foreign non-residents
- USD 700 for foreign residents
- UGX 300,000 for East African citizens
Best Time to Trek Mishaya Gorilla Group
The best time to trek the Mishaya gorilla family is during the dry season, from June to August and December to February. During these months, the trails are dry and easier to navigate.
The Mishaya gorilla family has incredible members, providing tourists with a memorable experience as they explore.
