Group Name: Oruzogo Gorilla Family
Leader of the Group: Bakwate Silverback
Group Number: 17 (June 2016)
Location: Ruhija Area in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Neighbours: Bitukura, Kyaguliro-Mukiza & Kyaguliro-Rukara Gorilla Groups
Oruzogo Gorilla group is a large family of 17 gorillas and can be trekked from Ruhija area of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda. The Oruzogo group has become popular with visitors not because of the big size of the family, but because of the playful juveniles. Also toddlers in the group keep visitors entertained to say the least.
However, If you want more sleep with less driving, ask your tour operator to book you into a lodge in Ruhija but not in Buhoma. It’s an hour drive time from Buhoma to Ruhija and that would mean leaving your lodge at 6:00 am. This is done in order to reach Ruhija at the right time for gorilla tracking orientation.
In addition, the Oruzogo gorilla family started to receive visitors in year 2011 and those who came to visit gorillas love this group. It is not an extreme trek but you need medium endurance and stamina because of steep terrain.
Ruhija in the last two years has had more lodges become available from budget to up-market. Also, it does make it easier if a visitor to Oruzogo group stays right in Ruhija area a night before the trek.
Here is what you need to know about Oruzogo Gorilla Group;
Location: Ruhija tourism sector of Bwindi Impenetrable national park.
Difficulty level: The trek can vary in difficulty, but its generally considered easy group to trek. It’s noted that the group’s location can change affecting the expected trekking duration.
Trek Duration: Time to spend trekking gorillas can range from 3 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 Oruzogo gorilla group?
- Habituation: Oruzogo group members was one of the earlier gorilla families to be habituated in Ruhija sector, also this make them more comfortable with human presense.
- Accessibility: The group is located in Ruhija sector, which is easily accessible along Kabale buhoma road and offers various accommodation options.
- Experience: Trekking Oruzogo 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 Oruzogo 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 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 8 Days Best Adventure Safari Rwanda Uganda or just take a 2 Days Uganda gorilla tour from Kigali to Bwindi forest.
