Mubare Gorilla Group—Meet the First Family of Bwindi
The Mubare Gorilla Group holds a special place in Uganda’s conservation history. This is the oldest habituated gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and, indeed, in all of Uganda. For anyone with an interest in primate conservation, tracking this group is like walking through the pages of African wildlife history.
Located in the Buhoma Sector, Mubare offers trekkers a close, manageable route into the forest and a deeply rewarding experience with mountain gorillas.
The First to Welcome Tourists.
The Mubare Group was the first gorilla family to be habituated for tourism in Uganda. This process began in 1991, and by 1993, they were ready to receive the first group of visitors. Since then, they’ve become one of the most reliable groups to trek in the northern part of Bwindi.
The group’s name originates from the Mubare Hills, where the gorillas were first spotted and observed by researchers. It was also the original base for ranger patrols during early conservation efforts.
A Story of Change and Resilience
Over the decades, the Mubare family has experienced shifts in leadership, internal group splits, and the natural challenges of life in the wild. For many years, the group was led by a dominant silverback named Ruhondeza, a wise and protective leader known for his calm demeanor.
Ruhondeza’s death in 2012 marked the end of an era. The group temporarily declined in number but recovered through natural births and incorporation of new members. Today, it remains stable, cohesive, and well-adjusted to human visitors.
This history makes the Mubare group especially symbolic for Uganda’s gorilla conservation success.
Where to Find the Mubare Group
Mubare lives in the Buhoma Sector, a popular starting point for many visitors to Bwindi. The group is often found within close range of the park headquarters, making this trek one of the least physically demanding in the park.
Depending on their location, you might reach them in as little as 1–2 hours of hiking. The terrain is relatively gentle compared to other sectors like Rushaga or Nkuringo.
This accessibility makes Mubare ideal for older travelers, beginners, or those who prefer shorter forest walks.
Group Composition and Traits
The Mubare Group consists of a modest-sized family, usually ranging between 6 to 9 members, including:
- One dominant silverback
- Several adult females
- Juveniles and infants
The group may be small, but what it lacks in numbers, it makes up for in intimacy. Visitors often report calm, quiet interactions with this family, where you can observe the intricate behaviors of gorillas at a close distance.
The group’s consistency in behavior makes them a favorite for wildlife photographers, as they often settle in open clearings with fewer obstructions.
The Trekking Experience
Your day begins with a briefing at the Buhoma visitor center. From there, trained guides and rangers lead you through marked forest trails. With the Mubare Group’s known range, the trek typically avoids steep ascents or long distances.
Once located, you’re allowed to spend one magical hour in their presence. The experience is silent, immersive, and unforgettable. Watch young gorillas tumble in play, observe mothers cradling their babies, or lock eyes with a silverback in a moment that stays with you forever.
Despite the group’s accessibility, trekking still takes you deep into Bwindi’s rich, ancient forest—a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with biodiversity.
Who Should Choose Mubare?
This group is particularly well-suited for:
- Senior travelers
- First-time gorilla trekkers
- Families with teens or beginners
- Anyone preferring a shorter, easier hike
- Those seeking a historical connection to Uganda’s gorilla tourism journey
Because Mubare is one of the most approachable groups, permits often sell out quickly. Booking early is essential.
Best Time to Visit
The Mubare Group can be visited year-round. However, the dry seasons—from June to September and December to February—offer the best hiking conditions, with clearer trails and lower chances of rain.
That said, gorilla sightings are guaranteed in all seasons. Experienced trackers monitor the group’s location daily to ensure your success.
Accommodation and Community Experiences
The Buhoma Sector has a wide range of accommodation options just minutes from the starting point:
- Buhoma Lodge
- Mahogany Springs
- Engagi Lodge
- Ride 4 a Woman Guesthouse
In addition to gorilla trekking, visitors can explore Batwa cultural trails, local crafts markets, and Bwindi Community Hospital, which supports the health of the surrounding communities.
Permit Cost and Booking Tips
Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda cost $800 per person for foreign non-residents (2025 rate). Mubare is among the most requested families in Buhoma, so early reservations are crucial. You can book through a licensed tour operator or the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable, so confirm your travel dates and plan accommodations accordingly.
Plan Your Trek to Mubare
Walking with the Mubare Gorilla Group connects you to the roots of Uganda’s ecotourism legacy. From historic milestones to present-day encounters, Mubare offers a meaningful and personal gorilla trekking experience that you won’t forget.
As you stand just meters away from a wild silverback, you’ll understand why so many visitors return from Mubare forever changed.
