The Nyakagezi Gorilla Family

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda hosts only one habituated mountain gorilla group: the Nyakagezi family. As one of the most fascinating gorilla families in the Virunga region, this group offers visitors a rare and intimate wildlife encounter.

Currently, the family consists of about nine to ten individuals, including a dominant silverback, other silverbacks, adult females, juveniles, adolescents, and newborns. Thanks to their relatively small home range, the Nyakagezi gorillas are easier to track compared to many other gorilla families in the region.

Why Is the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family Called Nyakagezi?

The family takes its name from the Nyakagezi area of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where they were first sighted during the early stages of habituation. This area is rich in vegetation and fruit-bearing plants, which naturally attract gorillas.

As a result, the Nyakagezi region became a favored feeding and resting ground, making it a logical and fitting name for the group.

Why Is Nyakagezi the Only Gorilla Family in Mgahinga?

Unlike Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park lies within the Virunga Massif, a transboundary ecosystem shared by Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Because of this unique location, many gorilla groups frequently cross borders in search of food, new territories, or mates. While several families may temporarily pass through Mgahinga, the Nyakagezi family established a permanent presence and gradually adapted to human observers.

Consequently, Nyakagezi became the only gorilla family habituated for tourism in the park, making them the sole group accessible to visitors.

How Much Does It Cost to See the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family?

Gorilla trekking permits for the Nyakagezi gorilla family are priced as follows:

• USD 800 per person for non-resident foreigners
• USD 700 per person for foreign residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African citizens

Each permit allows visitors to spend one unforgettable hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat.

How to Book a Permit for the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family

Visitors can book a gorilla trekking permit through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or via a licensed tour operator. Permits are issued from UWA headquarters in Kampala or directly at the Mgahinga park offices.

Since there are only eight permits available per day, we strongly recommend booking early—especially during peak travel seasons—as permits often sell out well in advance.

Interesting Facts About the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family

Only Habituated Family in Mgahinga

As the only habituated group in Mgahinga, the Nyakagezi family allows tourists to track and observe them more easily than unhabituated groups.

Transboundary Movement

The family roams freely across the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, showcasing the true transboundary nature of the Virunga Massif.

Family Structure

The group typically includes four silverbacks, two adult females, one adolescent, and two newborns, making their social dynamics especially intriguing.

Leadership Dynamics

Although Mark, a younger silverback, currently leads the family, Bugingo, the older and former dominant silverback, still remains within the group. This is unusual, as older silverbacks are often forced out when leadership changes.

Rich Nyakagezi Habitat

The Nyakagezi area is rich in fruits and vegetation, which continues to attract the family and supports their long-term settlement in Mgahinga.

Popular Trekking Experience

Many trekkers describe visits to the Nyakagezi family as one of the most rewarding gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda, partly due to the open terrain and scenic volcanic backdrop.

Why Is the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family Important?

The Nyakagezi gorilla family plays a vital role in Uganda’s conservation and tourism efforts. As the only habituated family in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, they offer visitors a rare opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in a less crowded, more pristine environment.

Additionally, their history of cross-border movement and unique leadership structure provides valuable insights for scientific research and long-term conservation planning.

Conclusion: The Significance of the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family

In conclusion, the Nyakagezi gorilla family stands as a cornerstone of gorilla tourism in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Their presence not only enhances Uganda’s appeal as a premier gorilla trekking destination but also supports vital conservation initiatives.

By visiting the Nyakagezi gorilla family, travelers contribute directly to the protection of mountain gorillas while experiencing one of Africa’s most profound and unforgettable wildlife encounters.