The Habituated Gorilla Families of Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Kahuzi-Biega national park is one of the largest and most protected area in Democratic Republic of Congo. Situated in the South Kivu province and lies west of Bukavu town near the western bank of Lake Kivu and the Rwandan border. It’s a UNESCO world heritage site with an area cover of 6,000 square kilometers. The park has both mountainous and lowland terrains. Kahuzi-Biega National park is dominated by lowland gorillas.
Named after two dormant volcanoes which are Kahuzi and Biega which are 3308 and 2790 meters high respectively. Popularly known as home to eastern lowland gorillas which are a part of the various animal species found in the park. According to the 2004 research study report, there are 4 gorilla sub species and the Eastern lowland gorillas are the largest of these four with a male being 1.85 meters tall and weighing about 210 kilograms while females are 1.6 meters tall and weigh about 100 kilograms.
Eastern lowland gorillas are very social and they peacefully live in groups of 2-30 and individually too. These groups also known as families are headed by a silverback which are dominant in nature. The families consist of many females and their offsprings. Just like the ancient polygamous families in Africa. Silverbacks are like fathers, they are the alphas of the family and are stronger than the other gorillas hence are in charge of protecting their families against harm and danger.
When the infants mature into silverbacks, they leave the family and form their own, this prevents conflicts within the family as they can’t have two silverbacks. Females usually give birth to only 1 infant after a gestation period of 8 months, twins are rare among gorillas and once this happens, it is highly celebrated.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Kahuzi-Biega is recognized as the home to 9 distinct gorilla families. Notably, only 5 of these groups have been successfully habituated. Habituation is defined as the process where animals are trained. Specifically, they become familiar with the presence of humans.
Consequently, only five families can be trekked within the park. These families offer unique insights into lowland gorilla behavior. Indeed, each group possesses a different history and social structure.
Meet the Habituated Lowland Gorilla Families
1. Bonnani Gorilla Family
The Bonnani family is identified as the smallest within the park. Specifically, it currently consists of only 5 family members. This is because the group has just been recently habituated. Furthermore, it is part of the newer families in the region.
2. Chimanuka Gorilla Family
Chimanuka is described as the second largest habituated group. Notably, many testimonies suggest it is the most interesting family. The group consists of 19 members led by a silverback. Indeed, the family name was derived from this specific leader.
3. Mpungwe Gorilla Family
Mpungwe is known as the largest lowland gorilla family. Specifically, it boasts a total of 21 family members. It is highly recommended for those who dislike steep trekking. Consequently, it is most loved by lowland gorilla enthusiasts.
4. Mugahuka Gorilla Family
Disputes were experienced by this interesting family in the past. Specifically, a battle occurred with the Chimanuka gorilla family. Chimanuka won and took most of Mugahuka’s family members. Therefore, the silverback Mugahuka currently lives entirely alone.
Since it is a one-member family, it is easier to trek. Furthermore, it is found much closer to the park headquarters. This is advantageous for less energetic trekkers and the elderly. Consider this when reviewing gorilla trekking prices.
5. Nganwa Gorilla Family
The Nganwa family is not yet fully habituated. Specifically, training sessions are still being undergone by the group. It consists of 10 members but is not yet open. Consequently, it cannot be included in current trekking itineraries.
How to Get to Kahuzi-Biega National Park
The park is located in the Eastern region of the DRC. Specifically, it is found 30 kilometers away from Bukavu town. The journey takes approximately one hour and a half the park is accessible by both air and road.
The road is observed to be not very well maintained. However, it is considered easy to navigate with a 4×4. Chartered flights are also landed at Kavuma and Miti airports. Furthermore, vehicles are used to reach the park gate from there.
Best Time to Visit
Visiting Kahuzi-Biega can be carried out all year round. Indeed, no major hindrances to weather are typically experienced. This makes it a perfect addition to group tours in Uganda and Congo. You can also learn who Dian Fossey was to understand her legacy. Consider a visit to Mgahinga National Park for a complete experience.
