In the South of Bwindi impenetrable National Park, there lies a stunning gorilla sector called Nkuringo that is home to 10 families of gorillas including the famous Nkuringo. This family stands out from the rest due to its historical significance in the sector and it’s calm demeanor further makes it a favorite among the many. Nkuringo is a “Rukiga” word translating to Rolling Stones in English which is a perfect description of the captivating scenery of the sector.  The gorilla family was first seen in the hills and was therefore named after them.

Uniqueness of the Nkuringo gorilla family.

This family is unique mainly because it had the privilege to give birth to twins unlike most of the other families. The twins were Muhoozi and Katungi although unfortunately Katungi died. The family further stands out due to its cooperation in the forest.  This was showcased especially during the time it had two silverbacks – Rafiki and Safari leading the whole family.

Family history

The Nkuringo gorilla family used to reside in the rolling hills of Bwindi and for long feasted on people’s plantations in the vicinity of the park.  Some of the farmers retaliated by killing some of the members of the family but it was seen as an act of no good to the country by the government and conservationists.  This prompted the authorities to habituate the gorillas and gazette them an area where to feed and stay. Bwindi National park was established and the animals stayed in Nkuringo in the South where they have lived up to today.

Nkuringo family was led by a dominant silverback called Nkuringo who died in 2008. After his demise, 2 silverbacks Rafiki and Safari took over leadership. Safari later remained as the sovereign leader after a period of seven months. His leadership was a great success in the family, it was in his reign that Kwitonda – A female gorilla give birth to twins – Muhoozi and Katungi though Katungi did not live to celebrate his second birthday as he succumbed to severe illnesses. 

Behavior of the Nkuringo gorilla family.

This family is characterized by a calm demeanor that has been passed on from the ancestors to the current generations.  They are a beautiful family to trek and showcase a shared responsibility among all the family members.  The elder members of the family have the responsibility of grooming the young ones into strong and responsible adults. Nkuringo is also known for its strength and protective nature.  They are strong because they hike in the hills of Nkuringo on a daily.

The membership of Nkuringo gorilla family.

The exhilarating Nkuringo gorilla family is a fairly large family comprising of 1 silverback, 1 blackback, 2 adult females, 2 sub adults, three juveniles and two infants. Rwamutwe is currently the lead silver back of the family who took over leadership after Safari’s reign.

The beauty of trekking Nkuringo gorilla family.

Accessing Nkuringo gorilla family takes you through the deep ends of Bwindi impenetrable National Park  all the way to the southern ends. The trackers move through the thick rainforests as they enjoy the observation of various plants, birds and animals. Nkuringo sector is made-up of captivating rolling hills which the tourists enjoy for sightseeing and photography as they continue to access the family.  Making your way through the thick rainforests and  hiking through the mountainous regions  makes the moment you encounter the gorilla family more valuable not only for tourism purposes but also benefit health wise. 

Nkuringo gorilla family has beautiful infants with a playful character that travelers enjoy observing and spending time with, taking photographs and learning about the gorillas.

Gorilla tracking permits to Nkuringo gorilla family. For one to trek the Nkuringo gorilla family, they ought to have a gorilla tracking permit which is obtained through the registered tour operators.  Gorilla tracking permits vary in prices basing on the nationality of the tracker.  The foreign non residents in Uganda buy the permits at a non negotiable fee of $700, foreign residents pay $600 and the East African citizens pay Uganda shillings 250,000.

The gorilla tracking permits are presented to the authorities on the day of tracking just before the guest is allowed into the jungle to go and meet the gentle giants.