The Best Places to See Primates in Africa and their Gorilla Families

Africa is home to some of the most extraordinary primate species, with gorilla families being a highlight for many wildlife enthusiasts making it the best place to see these humble creatures.

From the lush forests of Bwindi to the volcanic slopes of Virunga and Volcanoes National Park, these iconic destinations offer unforgettable opportunities to observe gorillas in their natural habitat.

Africa’s primate destinations offer unparalleled opportunities to observe some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.

In this article, we’ll explore the best places to see primates in Africa and discover the unique gorilla families that call these regions home.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into several sectors, each hosting different primates and gorilla families.

Here’s a closer look at the specific trekking areas and their notable gorilla families;

Ruhija Sector

• Gorilla Families:
  • Bitukura Family

This family is known for its dynamic social structure and strong group bonds.

The Bitukura family is often found in the more accessible areas of Ruhija which offer breathtaking views all around Africa.

• • Oruzogo Family

Known for their playful and curious nature, the Oruzogo family inhabits the dense forests of Ruhija which can be challenging but rewarding to trek.

• • Mukiza Family

A relatively new addition to the park’s habituated gorilla families, the Mukiza family is known for its adventurous young members and active social interactions.

Buhoma Sector

• Gorilla Families:
  • Mubare Family

One of the original habituated groups, the Mubare family is renowned for its long history and stable group dynamics.

They are relatively accessible, making this sector popular among visitors.

• • Habinyanja Family

This family is known for its diverse members and relatively easy-to-reach location.

They are often observed in a more relaxed setting compared to other families.

 Nkuringo Sector

• Gorilla Families:
  • Nkuringo Family

The Nkuringo family is famous for its rugged terrain and challenging treks.

The family includes several large silverbacks and is known for its strong social bonds and impressive group structure.

• • Nshongi Family

The Nshongi family is one of the largest and most dynamic groups in Bwindi.

The trek to see this family can be strenuous but offers a chance to observe a large group of gorillas in their natural habitat.

Rushaga Sector

• Gorilla Families:
  • Bweza Family

Known for their large size and dynamic behavior, the Bweza family is one of the more frequently visited groups in the Rushaga sector.

• • Busingye Family

This family is known for its territorial behavior and is often seen in the lush forests of Rushaga.

They are a popular choice for visitors due to their fascinating interactions.

• • Kahungye Family

The Kahungye family is known for its playful nature and large group size.

They are often observed in the dense, hilly terrain of Rushaga, making for an exciting trek.

Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo

Virunga National Park features both mountain and eastern lowland gorillas with several notable trekking areas:

Sabyinyo Sector

• Gorilla Families:
  • Sabyinyo Family

This family is known for its diverse members and strong social structure.

They are often found in the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains, offering a moderately challenging trek.

Hoyo Sector

• Gorilla Families:
  • Hoyo Family

This group is known for its large size and complex social interactions.

The trek to see the Hoyo family can be strenuous, but the rewards include observing a large and active gorilla group.

Mikeno Sector

• Gorilla Families:
  • Mikeno Family

The Mikeno family is one of the most iconic groups of eastern lowland gorillas in Virunga.

They are known for their gentle nature and large size, offering an exceptional wildlife experience.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its mountain gorilla families offering some of the best experiences in primates trekking Africa:

Sabyinyo Sector

• Gorilla Families:
  • Sabyinyo Family

This family is famous for its impressive silverbacks and diverse group dynamics.

They are located in the lush forests of the Sabyinyo sector offering a moderately challenging trek.

Karisimbi Sector

• Gorilla Families:
  • Karisimbi Family

Known for their higher altitude habitat and challenging trek, the Karisimbi family is one of the most sought-after groups.

The trek offers stunning views of the volcanoes and the surrounding landscapes.

Bisoke Sector

• Gorilla Families:
  • Bisoke Family

This family is known for its dynamic interactions and the opportunity to observe gorillas in a relatively accessible part of the park.

The trek is moderate and provides beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Plan Your Unforgettable Gorilla Trekking Adventure with Gecko Safaris.

Each sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Virunga National Park and Volcanoes National Park offers a truly unique primate viewing experience.

Whether you’re trekking to see the Bitukura family in Ruhija or the Sabyinyo family in Virunga.

Every journey provides a rare opportunity to witness the fascinating behaviors and social structures of these magnificent animals.

To ensure you have a seamless and unforgettable primate adventure, book your tour with Gecko Safaris, the best tour operator in the region.

Our experienced guides and tailored itineraries will ensure that your gorilla trekking experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

Let us help you plan the trip of a lifetime in experiencing the unique primates in Africa.