Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park-Nkuringo Sector
Nkuringo sector, situated in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, stands as one of the world’s four homes for mountain gorillas. Bwindi National Park, home to the largest population of wild mountain gorillas, features over 23 habituated gorilla families divided into four regions: Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija, and Rushaga. The park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, plays a crucial role in the conservation of these magnificent creatures. Additionally, some gorillas can be spotted in the slopes of volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Discovering the Nkuringo Gorilla Family
The Nkuringo Gorilla Family, named after the rolling hills, resides deep within the thick forest of Bwindi. This family was first sighted in 2004 and consists of more than 12 members that have undergone habituation. Originally living in villages surrounding the park and causing harm to crops, these gorillas underwent training to habituate them. Today, they are fully habituated, and tourists can visit them daily on Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Bwindi.
The Nkuringo family, initially led by the silverback Nkuringo, saw a change in leadership when he passed away in 2008. Safari and Rafiki, another silverback, took over leadership. The family expanded in 2008 with the birth of twins, Muhozi and Katungi, from the twin mother, Kwitonda. Unfortunately, Katungi passed away before reaching two years of age.
Gorilla Groups in Nkuringo Sector
Apart from the Nkuringo Gorilla Family, the Nkuringo sector is home to other gorilla groups like Bushaho Gorilla Family, Christmas Gorilla Family, Posho Gorilla Family, and more.
Gorilla Permit and Trekking Experience
To encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, visitors need to purchase a gorilla permit, priced at USD800 per person per day. During the briefing at the sector’s Uganda Wildlife Authority trailhead office, trekkers are assigned to one of the gorilla groups based on their physical abilities. Most trekkers visiting Nkuringo prefer the Bushaho family for its entertainment value and ease of tracking. Gorilla trekking is limited to eight tourists per gorilla family per day, allowing for an intimate experience. Trekkers are allowed up to one hour with the gorillas, maintaining a distance of 8 to 10 meters.
Activities Beyond Gorilla Trekking
Nkuringo sector offers various activities beyond gorilla trekking, including community walks to understand the local people’s daily life. Visitors can taste local meals and hear captivating stories. The Batwa trail provides an opportunity to interact with the first people who lived in the ancient forest caves, learning about their unique way of life and survival. Exploring local community schools allows interaction with the children, gaining insights into their education experiences.
Best Time to Visit Nkuringo – Bwindi National Park
While Nkuringo can be visited throughout the year for gorilla trekking, the best time is during the dry season from June to mid-September and December to February.
Accommodations in Nkuringo Region
Nkuringo region boasts excellent lodges catering to different budgets, including Luxury, Mid-range, and Budget options. Some notable options include Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Heights Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla, Gorilla Safari Lodge, Karungi Camp, Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge, Crested Crane Hotel, and Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge.
Accessibility to Nkuringo Region – Bwindi National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can be easily accessed by both road and air transport. The journey from Kampala or Entebbe to Bwindi takes approximately 8 to 9 hours by road. Alternatively, a domestic flight or charter flight with “Aero link Uganda” from Entebbe International Airstrip to Kihihi or Kisoro Airport reduces travel time to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
