Muyambi Gorilla Family – A Unique Gorilla Trekking Experience in Buhoma Sector of Bwindi
Muyambi Gorilla Family is one of the most fascinating gorilla groups found in the Buhoma Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda. This family is among the newest gorilla groups open for trekking in the park, officially recognized in 2019. It was formed after splitting from the historic Mubare Gorilla Family, which holds the distinction of being the very first habituated gorilla group in Bwindi.
Background and Formation of Muyambi Gorilla Family
The formation of the Muyambi Family marked an exciting addition to Uganda’s gorilla trekking experiences. The group was established when a dominant silverback named Muyambi broke away from the Mubare family to form his own troop. Muyambi is now the proud leader and protector of his family, which currently consists of about seven members, including adult females, juveniles, and infants.
In May 2020, the family welcomed its first baby, symbolizing growth and stability for this new group. Like other mountain gorillas in Bwindi, the Muyambi Family is fully habituated, meaning they are comfortable in the presence of humans, allowing trekkers to observe them closely during their daily routines.
Gorilla Behavior and Trekking Experience with Muyambi Gorilla Group
Trekking the Muyambi Gorilla Family offers an intimate and rewarding encounter with these gentle giants. Visitors can witness the gorillas’ fascinating behaviors, such as foraging for food, grooming one another, resting, and playful interactions among the young ones. The group is known for its calm nature and frequent movement between the forest floor and trees, giving trekkers a chance to observe a range of natural activities.
The Buhoma Sector is famous for its dense vegetation, scenic hills, and ancient forest trails that make every trek both challenging and memorable. Gorilla trekking in this area not only offers a close encounter with endangered mountain gorillas but also provides opportunities to experience Bwindi’s incredible biodiversity, including birds, butterflies, and unique plant species.
Access to Buhoma Sector to Visit Muyambi and other Gorilla Families
By Road
Travelers can reach Buhoma by road from Kampala or Entebbe International Airport. The journey takes approximately 9 hours, with en-route stops for sightseeing and refreshments. Common stopovers include the Uganda Equator in Mpigi and Mpambire Drum Makers, where travelers can enjoy cultural experiences and local crafts.
The typical route follows Kampala – Masaka – Mbarara – Rukungiri – Buhoma.
By Air
For those seeking a faster and more comfortable option, there are daily scheduled flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kihihi Airstrip, which is the nearest airfield to Buhoma. From Kihihi, it takes about 1.5 hours by road to reach the park headquarters.
Most travelers using this option are gorilla tourists heading to Bwindi for their trekking adventures.
While gorilla trekking from Kigali, Rwanda, is a convenient route for reaching the southern sectors of Bwindi, it is less practical for Buhoma, as this sector lies farther north compared to other trekking zones like Rushaga or Nkuringo.
Gorilla Trekking Permits and Tours
To visit the Muyambi Gorilla Family, tourists are required to obtain a gorilla trekking permit, which is issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Permits should be booked well in advance, especially during the high season, as daily numbers are limited to protect the gorillas and preserve the ecosystem.
At Animal View Safaris, we help travelers plan and book their Uganda gorilla trekking tours with ease. Our packages include transportation, accommodation, permits, and guided treks to ensure a seamless and memorable experience. Visiting the Muyambi Gorilla Family in the Buhoma Sector offers an unmatched opportunity to connect with nature and witness one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on Earth.
The Muyambi Gorilla Family is a must-visit for anyone exploring Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Its remarkable story, led by the strong and charismatic silverback Muyambi, adds to the rich heritage of gorilla conservation in Uganda. Trekking this family in the lush Buhoma forests is not only a thrilling adventure but also a contribution to the ongoing protection of these endangered mountain gorillas for future generations.