Nyakagezi Gorilla Family

Nyakagezi Gorilla Family in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: A Fascinating Encounter with the Rare Mountain Gorillas

Family Dynamics and Composition

The Nyakagezi Gorilla family, residing in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, stands as the sole fully habituated Gorilla group within the park’s boundaries. Comprising a total of 9 members, the family structure includes 4 silverbacks, 2 infants, 2 adult females, and 1 juvenile. Among these, the dominant silverback, known as Mark, assumed leadership from his father, Bugingo.

Unique Characteristics and Behavior

An intriguing aspect of the Nyakagezi Gorilla family is the presence of Bugingo, the former dominant silverback, still living within the family structure. This departure from the typical pattern, where ousted silverbacks often live in isolation or seek refuge in other groups, adds a unique layer to the group’s dynamics. This family exhibits an interesting migratory history, previously traversing the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. However, they have since settled in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, offering tourists a stable and captivating Gorilla trekking experience.

Geographical Location and Tracking Accessibility

Situated in South-Western Uganda, amidst the renowned slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes – Muhabura, Sabinyo, and Gahinga mountains – Nyakagezi Gorilla family enjoys a habitat rich in food resources. Their preference for a narrow home range facilitates tracking, as it encompasses feeding, nesting, relaxation, and recreation areas. While the family remains mobile and occasionally crosses borders into Rwanda and DRC Congo, tracking them in Uganda proves easier due to their lower-altitude locations and limited home range.

Historical Journey and Settlement

Historically known for their migratory behavior, the Nyakagezi Gorilla group has been settled within Mgahinga National Park since 2012. The permanence of their settlement has significantly increased the chances of encountering these magnificent creatures during Gorilla trekking, reaching over 95%. The establishment of a permanent home has made them a focal point for tourists, attracting more visitors to the park.

Tourist Activities Beyond Gorilla Trekking

Beyond the enthralling Gorilla trekking experience with the Nyakagezi family, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a spectrum of activities. Tourists can engage in Golden Monkey tracking, creating a unique intersection of Silver (Gorillas) and Gold (Golden Monkeys). The Batwa trail provides insights into the lives of the “People of the Forest,” who were once hunter-gatherers. Additionally, opportunities for birding and mountain hiking to peaks like Mt Sabyinyo, Mt Muhavura, and Mgahinga further enhance the overall safari experience.

Travel Options and Access to Nyakagezi Gorilla Family

For those eager to embark on a journey to witness the Nyakagezi Gorilla family, travel options include both road and air. Scheduled flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kisoro Airstrip offer a convenient air travel route, followed by a road transfer to the National Park. Alternatively, the road journey follows the Kampala-Mbarara-Kabale-Kisoro route, providing a seamless connection to the park. Trek Africa Expeditions facilitates both road and air-based Gorilla trekking safaris to Mgahinga National Park, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience with the Nyakagezi Gorilla family.