18 of the roughly 700-odd Mountain Gorillas left in the world, keep us captivated and enthralled at Nkuringo, situated a 40km drive up a winding mountain road north from Kisoro. The Nkuringo family was opened for Tourism in 2004 after a lengthy habituation process. Since then their popularity has grown and today they continue to allow us a glimpse into their daily routine… The group is currently made up of 18 individuals:

Silver Backs 2 (Over 15 years)
Males (Black Backs) 5 (8-12 years)
Sub-Adults 2 (5-8 years)
Juveniles 1 (3-5years)
Infants 4 (0-3years)
Adult Females 4 (9-above years)
Mountain gorillas have a lifespan of 40-50years and are completely herbivorous. The Nkuringo Groups’ home range stretches over an area of 10km and lies between 1600m and 200m above sea level.

Males can grow as tall as 6 feet at standing height and weigh 350 pounds, and if anyone has cowered next to Safari, the Dominant Silverback, there can be no doubt that they deserve their impressive billing! Safari is relatively new to the job as he took over leadership of the group earlier on this year after the old-age induced demise of the aptly named Nkuringo who had led the group for a large part of his roughly 50 year life. His death was met in the area with the sadness usually reserved for a close old friend. The somber mood however was somewhat broken by the discovery of a new baby by the Rangers who had been looking for Nkuringo. Being the new Dominant Male, Safari gets to decide where the group eats, sleeps and wanders, as well as acting as chief mediator in any family disputes, and all family members defer to him.

Meeting up with a Mammal that shares 98% of its DNA with us is something truly moving and we must ensure we continue to all contribute to their survival – they have almost no other predators other than their close cousins – us! Forest degradation and clearing in the ever expanding competition for space continues to provide the biggest threat to the Mountain Gorillas existence.

There have been many great success stories, but still a few stunningly unsuccessful and sad stories, with the Mountain Gorilla being on the losing side. Having personally been involved in a project to manage Human / Gorilla conflict, I have come across some people who work tirelessly to ensure Safari and his Family are protected and live harmoniously with the surrounding Communities.

Three major voices in Conservation around the world, the World Wildlife Fund for Nature, the African Wildlife Fund and Flora and Fauna International together established the International Gorilla Conservation Project (www.mountaingorillas.org) in 1991. The heroes at IGCP have worked tirelessly and that fact that since their inception, the Gorilla population has increased by over 10% speaks volumes about their dedication and involvement. They need all of our support to continue their work!

Mountain Gorilla trekking is overseen and operated by The Rwanda Wildlife Authority, www.uwa.or.ug through whom Permits to visit Safari and his family at Nkuringo can be obtained.