The Oruzogo gorilla group lives in the Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of Bwindi’s more recently habituated families. Ruhija sits in the eastern part of the park and is one of the more accessible sectors, reachable via the Kabale-Kisoro highway or from Buhoma in the north.
Habituation and Naming
Habituation of the Oruzogo family began in December 2009 and was completed in 2011, when the group was officially opened for tourism. Its name comes from “Oruzogoto,” a local plant found in the area where the family was first spotted. Oruzogo’s habituation brought Ruhija’s total gorilla family count to four, alongside Bitukura and Kyaguriro, the latter later split into Kyaguriro A and Kyaguriro B.
Family Structure
Oruzogo is the largest family in Ruhija, with 22 members led by dominant silverback Bakwate, whose name reflects his intelligence and quick learning, alongside second silverback Tibirikwata. Notable members include adult female Mutesi, known for her calm temperament; blackback Busungu, known for a hot temper; adult female Kakobe, whose long nose resembles a baboon’s; adult female Kashundwe, identifiable by a mole on her nose; adult female Nyakiina, who has a distinctive dip on the bridge of her nose; and adult female Birungi.
Other blackbacks in the group include Kaganga, nicknamed for his prominent head crest, Bwoba, known for his more cautious nature, and Otaka, a smaller and generally calm member. Juveniles include Karimi, Kashura, and Kiromba, while infants include Katoto, the smallest of the group, Buchura, the most recently born, and Kanywani, known for being especially friendly.
A Family That Keeps Growing
Oruzogo has expanded steadily over the years, helped along by several births, including two adult females giving birth within months of each other in 2011. The family’s fortunes continued in 2012, when Kakobe gave birth to twins, adding to what’s already one of the more lively and entertaining families to trek in Bwindi, thanks to its many playful juveniles and infants.
With 22 members full of distinct personalities and a reputation for playful, entertaining behavior, Oruzogo offers one of Ruhija’s more engaging gorilla treks. Book your gorilla trekking permit with our team today, and we’ll help you plan the trek alongside the rest of your Bwindi itinerary.
