Nkuringo Gorilla Families – The Nkuringo sector is located in the southern region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The park was established in 1991 to protect the endangered mountain gorillas from poachers and habitat loss.
The park covers an area of 331 square kilometers and is home to about 459 gorilla individuals.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated in southwestern Uganda, within the districts of Kabale, Kisoro, and Kanungu.
The park also borders the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. The Nkuringo sector is nestled in the rolling hills of Bwindi at an altitude of about 6,800 feet above sea level.
The Nkuringo sector was opened in 2004, making it the second sector to be opened for gorilla trekking.
The Nkuringo sector has three gorilla families, which include:
- Nkuringo Gorilla Family: The Nkuringo family was habituated in 1997, making it the first family to exist in this sector. At the time of its formation, the family started with 17 members, headed by Nkuringo, the dominant silverback. After Nkuringo’s death, Radio, Safari, and Christmas took over, with Safari being the main leader. Afterward, Safari disappeared, and Rafiki took over the group. Currently, the group has 13 members, including 2 silverbacks, 5 adult females, 2 blackbacks, 2 juveniles, and 2 infants, under the leadership of Rwamutwe.
- Bushaho Gorilla Family: The Bushaho gorilla family was formed when some members separated from the Nkuringo family. The family comprises 9 members, including 2 silverbacks, 4 adult females, 1 blackback, 1 juvenile, and 1 infant, under the leadership of Bahati.
- Christmas Gorilla Family: Christmas is a newly formed family in Nkuringo, and it derives its name from Christmas, the dominant silverback who was born on Christmas Day. The family currently has 9 members.
Cost of Gorilla Permits in Nkuringo Sector
- USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents
- USD 700 per person for foreign residents
- UGX 300,000 per person for East African citizens
Other Activities in the Nkuringo Sector
- Bird-watching: Bwindi is a haven for bird watchers, with over 350 bird species. After a gorilla trekking experience, tourists can spot birds in the wilderness, which provides relaxation and a mind-blowing experience.
Bird species include the Black Bee-eater, Grauer’s Broadbill, Doherty’s Bush Shrike, and Regal Sunbird. - Nature Walks: Bwindi is a unique place with beautiful scenery and wonderful canopies, making nature walks an amazing activity. During a nature walk, tourists can spot birds, gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, and more.
- Batwa Encounters: Tourists will have the chance to tour the Batwa community, where they are welcomed and entertained in the traditional way. They will learn about the cultures and traditions of the Batwa, which offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Visiting the Nkuringo gorilla families is a worthwhile experience due to the long-lasting memories created.