Ruhija mountain gorillas

Ruhija mountain gorillas in Ruhija sector of Bwindi, this sector is located in the Eastern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the sector is home of Gorilla families Bitukura and Oruzogo family and all are available for tracking.the sector has another group called Kyaguriro family for research use. The region stands at an elevation of over 2350 meters above sea level making it the coldest area in Bwindi. The region offers excellent hiking opportunities and has charming trails for those interested in nature walks like the Rwamunyonyi peak. Other primates in Ruhija include monkeys, and mammals include elephants and antelopes.

About Ruhija mountain gorillas in Ruhija sector Bwindi

Bitukura Gorilla Family.

The family is located in Ruhija which is on the Eastern side of Bwindi, and the group was named after a river in the park because the group was first sighted near the river hence the name. Habituation of the group started in 2007, and the group was later opened up for tracking in October 2008. The rangers had been encountering the group previously during there habituation of the Kyaguriro group, and they were never hostile, and this made it easy for them to habituate the gorillas. They became accustomed to human company faster than other gorilla groups. This group is very peaceful and with little politics as compared to other gorilla families that are characterized with such. The group was made up of 24 members, but due to deaths and flights some members split up, the group is now made up of 14 members with 4 silverbacks, 4 adult females, 3 juveniles and 1 infant. The group is under the leadership of Ndahura know to be a peaceful leader.

Oruzogo family

The family was first opened for tracking in 2011, and after habituation, the group had 25 members with two silverbacks. At the moment the group comprises of 17 members with one silverback Tibirikwata the head of the family, 2 black backs, 7 females, 2 young adults and 5 infants. In the region, it has the highest number of members and it derives its name from a particular plant in the region near its home where it was first spotted. The group became famous in 2013 when its member gave birth to a set of twins a female by name Kankonda and this group is very playful making it a joy to watch to those visiting for Gorilla tracking.

Kyaruguriro Gorilla Family.

The group was habituated in 1999 and was set aside as a research group for those interested in research and habituation. The group was made up of 20 members with Rukina as the head silverback who later died after being struck by lightning. The group was left in the leadership of the immature mukiza in 2016, then fights erupted between Mukiza and Rukara which split the group into two Kyaguriro A and Kyaguriro B with A having 10 members and B having had 10 as well and also known as Mukiza Gorilla Family.

What to wear and take during gorilla trekking in Ruhija

Whichever family group you visit, you may have to walk a long distance in steep, muddy conditions, possibly with rain overhead, before you encounter any gorillas. Put on your sturdiest shoes. Ideally, wear thick trousers ad long sleeved top as to protect against vicious stinging nettles. It’s often cold when you set out, so start out with a sweatshirt or jerseys [which also help protect against nettles].

The gorillas are thoroughly used to people, so it makes little difference whether you wear bright or muted colours. Whatever clothes you wear to go tracking are likely to get very dirty you slip and slither in the mud, so if you have pre- muddied clothes you might as well wear them. When you are grabbing for handholds in thorny vegetation, a pair of old gardening gloves are helpful. 

Carry as little as possible, ideally in a waterproof daypack of some sort. During the rainy season, a poncho or raincoat might be a worthy addition to you daypack, while sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are a good idea at any time of year. You may well feel like a snack during a long hike, and should certainly carry enough drinking water – at least two litres. Bottled water is sold in locally at the accommodation facilities. Especially during the rainy season, make sure your camera gear is well protected – is your bag isn’t waterproof, seal your camera and films in a plastic bag. 

Binoculars are not necessary to see the gorillas. In the theory, bird watchers might like to carry binoculars, though in practice only the most dedicated are likely to make use of them – the trek up to the gorillas is normally much directed, and walking up the steep slopes and the thick vegetation tends to occupy one’s eye and mind.

Best time to trek mountain gorillas of Ruhija region of Bwindi impenetrable National Park

Ruhija is located in Bwindi impenetrable forest is open for trekking all year round but it is also important to note that the forest is a tropical rain forest and can receive rain at any time. The best months to track gorillas include; June to August and December to February since they receive the lowest rainfall and the forest is less slippery. On the other hand, when you happen to travel during March to May and November there are chances of higher rainfall, you will be able to get discounts from some lodges for your accommodation.

Why plan and book gorilla trekking in Ruhija region of Bwindi with Eco Adventure Safaris.

Eco Adventure Safaris is experienced in organizing amazing gorilla trekking safari experiences to Uganda and Rwanda. We are also highly rated and reviewed on trip Advisor. We combine gorilla trekking safaris with eco-friendly and unforgettable high-end adventure and wildlife safaris that help preserve biodiversity, conserve wildlife and uplift local communities, these include chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris and game viewing, Mountain Hiking, Boat cruises excursions and Cultural encounters to give you a memorable and best African Safari experience including popular and great African safari destinations Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana and Namibia. Feel free to contact us about Ruhija mountain gorillas in Ruhija sector of Bwindi.