Nkuringo Sector
Nkuringo Sector one of the gorilla trekking sectors in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in southwestern Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its population of mountain gorillas, about 600 individuals. This makes it home to the World’s remaining population of Mountain Gorillas. In Uganda, Gorillas can only be found in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both in the south western region of Uganda.
The Nkuringo sector was named after the dominant silverback gorilla in the area. This sector is known for its challenging. But rewarding gorilla trekking experiences, it offers visitors a great opportunity to track. And observe the habituated mountain gorilla groups in their natural habitat.
For one to participate in gorilla trekking in Nkuringo sector, visitors need to obtain permits in advance from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Or through authorized tour operators like Paradise Adventure Vacations. These permits allow a limited number of people each day to visit a specific gorilla family. Hence ensuring the conservation and protection of these endangered animals.
Nkuringo sector in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is a captivating destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts. This is because it offers a unique opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat through gorilla trekking experiences.
The sector renowned for its challenging but rewarding mountain gorilla trekking adventures. Apart from gorilla trekking, the Nkuringo sector provides a range of adventure activities. Visitors can engage in guided nature walks, hiking and also trekking to explore the diverse ecosystem and enjoy breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Cultural encounters with the local communities including; the Batwa people offer insights into their traditions, dances, and ancient knowledge.
Nkuringo sector known for its beautiful sceneries, these include; stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the surrounding lush forests. In addition to gorilla trekking, visitors can engage in other activities in the area, such as nature walks, bird watching, cultural encounters with local communities, and hiking.
A gorilla in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park
Gorilla Trekking Groups in Nkuringo Sector
Nkuringo gorilla family
The family mediates between being nuclear and extended as it has 11 members, including one silverback, one black back, two adult females, 2 sub-adults, three juveniles and two infants.
This is the very first gorilla family to be habituated in Nkuringo sector. It spends 98% of its time foraging beyond the park areas, therefore a buffer zone was created to prevent their interference from neighboring communities.
A trek to this gorilla family is quite challenging and offers an amazing physical exercise for the day as the Nkuringo sector is situated in the steep valley areas of the southern part of Bwindi.
Posho Group
The background of this family is not as rich as it is a newly established group. That got its name from the founding Silverback called Posh. He broke off from Rafiki leadership – head of Nkuringo family to start his own family that later came to be flourishing and growing with a total of 14 members.
Silverback Magara commands these 14 members and he is responsible for the well-being of all individuals.
Christmas Group
The name of this group was adopted from the dominant silverback called Christmas. The glorious season of love and melodies didn’t just remind people about the birth of Jesus Christ but also overwhelmed both humans and gorillas with joy that grew up into a magnificent ape.
Christmas shares a birthday with Jesus as he was born on 25th December. He broke away from Rafiki to form his family and they didn’t go through any habituation process as all of the members that left with him were fully habituated from Nkuringo.
Christmas gorilla group is quite small in number, made of just 8 members that include one dominant silverback, 2 adult females, one sub-adult called Guma, two juveniles and two infants. Members in this group are fully habituated but a single mother recently joined with her juvenile son whose shyness always keeps him in the bushes or behind his mother’s back
Bushaho Group
All the members of the Bushaho family trace their origin from Nkuringo group and so does the lead silverback. The group’s name means there is nothing which was given after the place they usually forage from. The death of Rafiki caused various disappearances for some of the silverbacks that were in the group, therefore, this also gave a thought for Bahati to take his leave from Nkuringo.
Since Bahati is fun and entertaining, there were many gorillas. That followed him and the family went on expanding until it settled. Bahati then became the family’s lead silverback. And he was in charge of one black back, 5 adult females, 1 sub-female, 2 juveniles and 2 infants.
Bahati usually displays off his dominancy in case he notices an audience by pounding his chest. While making a powerful hoot, throwing tree branches and so much more.
In addition to gorilla trekking, Nkuringo sector in Bwindi impenetrable forest offers a range of adventure activities for visitors to enjoy.
The following are some of the activities you can experience in the sector;
Nature Walks
Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystem of Bwindi on guided nature walks. Professional guides will lead you through the impenetrable forest, pointing out various plant and animal species including; birds, monkeys as well as butterflies. This is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Hiking and Trekking
The Nkuringo sector offers several hiking and trekking trails that take you through the stunning landscapes of Bwindi impenetrable forest national park. Embark on guided hikes to viewpoints where you can get to enjoy panoramic vistas of the Virunga Volcanoes, forests and valleys.
Cultural Encounters
Engage with the local communities surrounding Nkuringo and learn about their culture and way of life. You can visit nearby villages, interact with the people, participate in traditional dances and music performances, and even try your hand at traditional crafts.
Bird Watching
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a bird watcher’s paradise and it is good for bird enthusiasts. This is because it is home to over 350 species of birds. Join experienced birding guides who can help you spot and identify a wide variety of colorful and unique bird species.
Batwa Cultural Experience
The Batwa, also known as the pygmies are the original forest dwellers of the impenetrable forest. Before established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can participate in the Batwa cultural experience where they will share their ancient knowledge. Demonstrate hunting techniques and also showcase their traditional dances and music.
Community Visits
Visitors to the Nkuringo sector also get involved in community development initiatives by visiting the local projects. Or volunteering your skills to support the local communities around Nkuringo. This includes; helping with education programs, conservation efforts or community empowerment initiatives.
It is important to note that the availability and specific offerings of these adventure activities may vary. Therefore, it is right to check with your local tour operator or accommodations in Nkuringo sector for the most up-to- date information and to arrange your preferred activities.
Accommodations in Nkuringo Sector
There are several accommodations available in and around the Nkuringo sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.