Group Name: Rushegura Gorilla Family
Leader of the group: Makara Silverback
Number of memebrs: 19 (June 2024)
Group Location: Buhoma Sector in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Neighbours: Habinyanja, Mubare Gorilla Groups, Katwe group and Myambia gorilla family
The Rushegura Gorilla Group is one of the larger groups of 19 members in Bwindi Impenetrable National park and in Buhoma area of the park. Gorilla Trekking time for this group tends to be shorter in recent times, since they have stayed around the park headquarters in Buhoma.
Further more, this group at times ventures out of the park and we had a group on safari who had this family outside of their tent. Gorillas spent their night close to the lodge until morning hours when they started feeding and moving around the cottages. They were simply amazed to say the least.
Two different recent clients insisted on staying three nights at Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp. This was because they were both hoping that the visit with the American photographer they saw on YouTube just might be replicated. Their thought would see the gorilla group there.
Therefore, Rushegura group is the best for visitors wanting a shorter trek and with a large gorilla family. It’s often trekked in a shorter time than 5 hours. There is however no guarantee to that as the gorillas may choose to venture off and it will take a longer time to track them.
Like many groups in the Park – the Rushegura Gorilla Group is another spliter group, this one from the Habinyanja Group.
Buhoma is an exciting place with three great gorilla groups of which the Rushegura Group is one.
Here is what you need to know about Rushegura Gorilla Group;
Location: Buhoma 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: The time to spend tracking gorillas can range from 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 Rushegura gorilla group?
- Habituation: The Rushegura group members was one of the first gorillas to be habituated, started in 1991, also this make them more comfortable with human presense.
- Accessibility: The group is located in Buhoma sector, which is easily accessible and offers various accommodation options.
- Experience: Trekking the Rushegura 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 Rushegura 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 6 Days Uganda gorilla trekking and Wildlife Safari or just take a 3 Days Uganda gorilla Safari to Bwindi forest.
