Mucunguzi gorilla group is located in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This group is a new addition to the sector.
Rushaga sector is in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda. It is well-known as the sector with the highest number of mountain gorillas in Bwindi.
According to recent statistics, the sector has over 200 mountain gorillas. This sector is also open for the gorilla habituation experience, where tourists spend more than an hour with the gorillas.
When Mucunguzi gorilla group was habituated, it was led by the dominant silverback, Mucunguzi, hence the name of the family.
Mucunguzi silverback was chased from the Bweza family and lived alone for some time. Later, he attacked the Bikingi gorilla family and stole some of its members to form the Mucunguzi gorilla family.
The Mucunguzi gorilla group has grown due to new births, and some members from other groups have joined.
Currently, the group consists of 12 members under the leadership of the silverback Mucunguzi.
Trekking Mucunguzi Gorilla Group
Gorilla trekking is an outdoor activity where tourists search for mountain gorillas in the jungle.
Trekking the Mucunguzi family begins early in the morning at the Rushaga Park headquarters.
It starts with a briefing about the park rules and regulations, and later tourists are grouped into teams of 8 people.
These groups are led by a park ranger to trek the family.
Once the Mucunguzi group is located, the park ranger allows tourists to observe the group for one hour.
Cost of Mucunguzi Gorilla Permits
- USD 800 for foreign non-residents
- USD 700 for foreign residents
- UGX 300,000 for East African residents
Gorilla permits can be secured through the Uganda Wildlife Authority website or offices. Alternatively, a trusted tour operator can assist tourists in booking their permits.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, although the family can still be visited year-round. The dry months are June to September and December to February.
The Mucunguzi gorilla group consists of gentle and peaceful primates, offering tourists a unique opportunity to explore them up close.
Also Read about Mukiza Gorilla Group.
