Group Name: Mubare Gorilla Family (Mubare Gorilla group)
Leader of the group: Kanyonyi Silverback
Group Number: 11 (June 2016)
Location of the group: Buhoma Sector in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Neighbours: Rushegura, Habimanya Groups, Katwe grop, Muyambi gorilla family.
In Uganda, Mubare Gorilla group was the first gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable national park to be habituated in 1991. Originally there were 12 family member and when the leader, the silverback Ruhondeza died it left only 5 family members.
In 2013 four other gorillas have joined the Mubare gorilla family, now making 9 family members. It is noted that some members of other groups have joined to become part of the Mubare group.
Further more, the ease of trekking with the Mubare group varies. They used to be closer to the Buhoma Park Headquarters but more and more it now takes an over 5 hour round-trip to track this group.
In addition, when the Mubare group was six and then became five in number after the death of their lead silverback Ruhondeza. Since then, tour operators and visitors avoided using the group for visitation but that has changed in recent times. This is because their number has risen to 9 due to new strong leadership from the new Silverback who has taken charge of the group.
What does Mubale mean? The word Mubare refers to the area where the group was first discovered in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
However, the advantage with the Mubare Gorilla family is that it can easily be tracked from Buhoma area of Bwindi impenetrable Forest.
Is Mubale gorilla group good for treking? Yes, the Mubale gorilla group, also known as Mubare group, is a popular choice for trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Here is what you need to know about Mubale gorilla group;
Location: Buhoma tourism sector of Bwindi Impenetrable national park
Difficulty level: The trek can vary in difficulty, but its generally considered manageable. It’s noted that the group’s location can change affecting the expected trekking duration.
Trek Duration: The time to spend tracking the gorillas can range from a 3 hours to over 5 hours, depending on the group’s location and movement.
Age Limit: Vistors must be 15 years old minimum.
Visitor Group size: Limited to 8 visitors per day.
Why choose Mubale gorilla group?
- Habituation: The Mubale group was one of the first gorilla families to be habituated, starting in 1991, also this make them comfortable with human presense.
- Accessibility: The group is located in Buhoma sector, which is easily accessible and offers various accommodation options.
- Experience: Trekking the Mubale group provides a unique opportunity to observe these magnificient creatures in their natural habitat.
Booking Tips and Recommendation.
Book in advance: Secure your permit well in advance to ensure availability, book permits atleast 3-6 months in advance, depending on the season.
Physical condition: Be prepared for a portantially challanging hike and consider you physical condition before booking.
Guided Tour: Join a guided tour to ensure a safe and successful trekking experience.
Overall, the Mubale gorilla group offers a rewarding trekking experience for those willing to put in effort.
How to book a gorilla permit? You can book through a registered tour operator in Uganda who will liase with Uganda Wildlife Authority reservation office to get you a permit.
Early booking are advised, especially during peak season (June to August and December to February)
What to Expect:
- A gorilla hike through the dense forest to track the gorillas.
- Observation and learning about gorilla behavior and social structures.
- Great opportunities for close photography and interaction with the guide.
- A certificate will be awarded upon completion of the trekking experience.
Lastly, If you are interested in combining this experience with other tour activities, consider 10 Days Uganda Safari adventure or just take a 3 Days Uganda gorilla Safari to Bwindi forest.
