The Rushegura gorilla family is one of the most accessible and rewarding gorilla groups to trek in Uganda. Based in the Buhoma sector — the oldest and most established trekking area in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest — Rushegura is frequently recommended for first-time gorilla trekkers, older visitors, and anyone who wants a shorter, more manageable hike without sacrificing the quality of the gorilla encounter.
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About the Rushegura Family
The Rushegura family takes its name from the Rushegura valley in the Buhoma area of northern Bwindi. They are one of the longest-habituated gorilla families in Uganda, with a history of human contact stretching back to the early years of gorilla trekking in Bwindi. This long habituation means the family is extremely calm and relaxed around human observers — ideal conditions for an immersive, unhurried hour with the gorillas.
The family has ranged in size between 16 and 20 individuals. The dominant silverback leads a group that typically includes multiple adult females, juveniles, and infants. Rushegura is known for its playful younger members — juveniles in this family are often active and visible during the one-hour visit, which makes for excellent viewing and photography.
One of Rushegura’s most distinctive behaviours is its tendency to forage close to the Buhoma community area at the edge of the park. It is not uncommon for the family to be found very close to the ranger station — sometimes within 20 to 30 minutes’ walk — meaning trek times to Rushegura are among the shortest of any habituated family in Bwindi.
The Trekking Experience
Treks depart from the Buhoma ranger station, which sits at the northern end of Bwindi near the Buhoma community village. This is the most developed starting point in the park — the infrastructure, ranger experience, and surrounding accommodation options are excellent.
Because Rushegura often forages near the park boundary, many trekkers reach the family within 45 minutes to an hour and a half of leaving the ranger station. This makes it one of the most manageable treks in Bwindi and a good choice for anyone concerned about fitness or stamina. That said, the terrain is still tropical forest — there will be roots, mud, and uneven ground — so proper hiking boots and walking poles remain important.
Groups are capped at eight visitors per day. The one-hour visit with the gorillas is the same as for all habituated families in Uganda. The Buhoma sector’s long history of gorilla tourism means the rangers here are among the most experienced in Uganda, and the briefings are thorough and informative.
Getting to Buhoma
Buhoma is the most commonly visited sector of Bwindi and the easiest to access. The drive from Kampala takes approximately seven to eight hours; from Mbarara, about four hours; from Kabale, roughly three hours. Most visitors stay one or two nights in one of the many lodges in and around Buhoma before and after trekking.
Buhoma is typically combined with Queen Elizabeth National Park or other western Uganda destinations as part of a week-long safari itinerary.
Booking Your Trek
Gorilla trekking permits for the Rushegura family cost USD 700 per person. Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and must be booked through a licensed operator. Rushegura’s accessibility and reputation mean permits are particularly popular — book at least four to six months ahead for peak-season dates.
