Facts About the Bwenge Gorilla Family

The Bwenge Gorilla Family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was formed in 2007 when Bwenge, the leading silverback, left his natal group. Shortly after, a female from another group joined him. The family inhabits the slopes of the Karisoke Volcano, between the Karisimbi and Bisoke mountains. Over the years, the group has faced hardships, including the loss of six young gorillas. Despite these challenges, the family persevered, and today it consists of 11 members, including a single silverback.

Interestingly, the name Bwenge means “wisdom” in Kinyarwanda. True to its name, the group was featured in the famous movie “Gorillas in the Mist.”

Bwenge: The Caring Silverback

Bwenge, the dominant silverback, was widely admired for his caring and protective nature. He notably took care of two orphaned infants after their mothers died, demonstrating the gentle side of gorilla behavior. Sadly, Bwenge was later found dead. Gorillas doctors noted lacerations, possibly from a confrontation with a lone male gorilla, and there were suspicions of cardiac disease due to changes observed in his heart and lungs.

After Bwenge’s death, leadership of the group shifted. Maggie, a mature female, assumed a guiding role, while Turatsinze, a solitary male from Pablo’s group, followed the family for several days.. Despite these challenges, the Bwenge family remains adventurous, offering gorilla trackers panoramic forest views and a memorable wildlife experience.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is more than just observing mountain gorillas. While following the Bwenge family, visitors often encounter a variety of other primates, including:

• Black-and-white colobus monkeys
• Blue monkeys
• Olive baboons
• Sykes monkeys
• Red-tailed monkeys

Additionally, tourists may occasionally spot forest elephants, bushbucks, warthogs, and giant forest hogs.

Birding Opportunities

Bwindi is home to approximately 360 bird species, some of which are endemic to the region. Birdwatchers can hope to see species such as:

• Dusky crimsonwing
• Bar-tailed trogon
• Honey guide
• Rusty-faced woodland warbler
• Rush warbler
• Yellow-eyed black flycatcher

The combination of gorilla trekking and birding offers an enriching experience, blending adventure with the beauty of nature.

Accommodation and Access

Tourists can choose from a variety of lodges and camps near Bwindi, including:

• Chameleon Hill Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Wagtail Eco Safari Camp
• Gift of Nature Lodge
• Cuckoo Land Tented Lodge
• Ruhijja Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Nshongi Camp

Bwindi is accessible by road in 8–9 hours from Kampala, or via chartered domestic flights from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi Airfield.

Visiting the Bwenge Gorilla Family is not only a chance to observe endangered mountain gorillas up close but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity and scenic beauty of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.