Posho Gorilla Family in Bwindi, Uganda

Everything you need to know about Bwindi’s newest mountain gorilla group in the Nkuringo Sector.

Hidden deep in the emerald mountains of southwestern Uganda, the Posho Gorilla Family is one of the most intriguing and recently habituated mountain gorilla groups within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. As interest in gorilla trekking continues to grow globally, the Posho Family has emerged as an exciting new group that offers travelers a fresh, authentic, and less crowded trekking experience.

Bwindi is home to almost half of the world’s population of Gorilla beringei beringei — the critically endangered mountain gorilla. The emergence of a newly habituated gorilla group like the Posho Family represents not just a tourism milestone, but a triumph in conservation, science, and community involvement.

Best Gorilla Trekking Uganda dives deep into everything you need to know about this new gorilla family in Nkuringo Sector— from trekking difficulty and gorilla behavior to permit planning, conservation insights, and insider tips that only experts or trackers typically know.

Who Are the Posho Gorilla Family?

A detailed look at Uganda’s newly habituated group

The Posho Gorilla Family resides in the Nkuringo Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of the park’s most scenic and physically challenging regions. As of the latest conservation assessments, the group is estimated to include 17 members, although gorilla family sizes naturally fluctuate due to births, adolescent dispersal, and occasional inter-group exchanges.

Current Composition (Approximate)

• 1 dominant silverback called Magara.

• 8 adult females

• 1 sub-adult female

• 1 sub-adult male

• 2 juveniles

• 4 infants

Origin of the Name “Posho”

The Posho Gorilla Family is currently undergoing the habituation process (as of 2025) and is expected to be fully open for gorilla trekking tours soon. This newly formed family takes its name from its founding silverback, Posh, who established the group after breaking away from the well-known Nkuringo Gorilla Family previously led by the late silverback Rafiki.

Mountain gorillas are among the world’s most impressive primates—large, powerful, and easily recognized by their dense black fur, expressive faces, and remarkably gentle, social nature. The creation of the Posho Family adds to Bwindi’s rich tapestry of gorilla groups and plays an important role in ongoing conservation and tourism efforts.

Other sources however disagree with the origin of the group name. Locals say the group’s name originates from the maize-based staple posho, famously used by trackers and rangers during early habituation efforts to gently encourage the gorillas to remain calm around humans. It symbolizes the patience, trust-building, and daily fieldwork that habituation requires.

Leadership

The family is led by Silverback Magara, known for his calm temperament, exceptional spatial awareness, and protective behavior during early visitor interactions. After a period of time working with rangers and researchers, the Posho Family is now available for Gorilla Habituation Experience adding Nkuringo sector to the Rushaga sector as the only places in the world this unique experience can be undertaken.

Understanding Gorilla Habituation: Why the Posho Family Is Special

The Posho family stands out because they are newly habituated, meaning they are still undergoing a carefully supervised process that prepares them for controlled tourist visits. This means that the family still offers the freshest experience as it has not fully overcome its instinctive natural lifestyle.

What Is Gorilla Habituation?

Gorilla habituation is a 2–3 year process where trackers, rangers, conservationists, and researchers repeatedly approach a gorilla group until the animals learn to tolerate the presence of humans without stress.

Why Habituation Matters

• It reduces risk of gorilla aggression

• Supports long-term conservation monitoring

• Enables tourism revenue that funds ranger salaries

• Spreads visitor pressure across multiple gorilla groups

• Allows scientists to track genetic health and social dynamics

Visiting a newly habituated group like Posho offers a “raw” experience — more unpredictable, more thrilling, and more connected to the gorillas’ natural behavior.

Trekking the Posho Gorilla Family in the Nkuringo Sector

What makes this one of the most rewarding treks in Africa?

The Nkuringo Sector is famous for its steep hills, terraced farms, deep valleys, and high-altitude forest trails. It offers stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and dense, mist-covered vegetation.

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard

Of all sectors in Bwindi, Nkuringo is one of the most challenging. Trekkers should expect:

• Steep climbs

• Uneven forest floors

• Dense vegetation

• Treks lasting 3–6 hours

However, the reward is incredible — fewer crowds, breathtaking scenery, and a chance to meet a gorilla family still developing its relationship with visitors.

Why Trek the Posho Gorilla Family?

Unique reasons this group stands out from other Bwindi families

1. Less Crowded and More Exclusive

Since the Posho family is newly habituated, they are not yet overwhelmed by visitor traffic — meaning quieter trekking groups and a more intimate experience.

2. Rich Behavioral Observations

Newly habituated groups display:

• More natural foraging behavior

• Unique vocalizations

• Dynamic group interactions

• Playful infant behavior

• Strong protective posturing from the silverback

3. A True Adventure Trek

Trekking Posho is perfect for travelers seeking something different from the standard “tourist trail.”

4. Conservation Impact

Trekking newly habituated families helps:

• Distribute tourism benefits to more communities

• Reduce pressure on over-visited families

• Support ranger operations and anti-poaching units

Best Time to Visit the Posho Gorilla Family

All Bwindi Gorilla Trekking sectors are open for trekking year-round, but the best seasons are:

Dry Seasons (Best Conditions)

• June to September

• December to February

During these months:

• Trails are less muddy

• Visibility is better

• Trekking is safer and easier

Wet Seasons (More challenging but beautiful)

• March to May

• October to November

Expect muddy conditions, but also:

• Fewer tourists

• Lush green vegetation

• Excellent photography opportunities

How to Prepare for Trekking the Posho Family

Physical Preparation

• Practice moderate hiking beforehand

• Build leg strength and stamina

• Acclimatize if arriving from low altitude

Recommended Gear

• Waterproof hiking boots

• Long pants + long sleeves

• Garden gloves (for vines and stinging nettles)

• Lightweight rain jacket

• Refillable water bottle

• Packed lunch

Photography Tips

• Use a zoom lens (70–200mm ideal)

• Avoid flash

• Set high shutter speeds due to low light

• Carry spare batteries

Accommodation Near the Nkuringo Sector

Choose lodging close to the trekking start point to avoid long morning drives.

Recommended Types of Lodging

• Eco-lodges

• Mid-range forest lodges

• Community-run guesthouses

• Luxury gorilla lodges with forest views

Staying in Nkuringo offers:

• Early access to the briefing point

• Cultural encounters with local communities

• Spectacular sunrise views

Sample 3-Day Itinerary for Trekking the Posho Gorilla Family

Day 1: Arrival in Nkuringo

• Travel from Kisoro or Kabale

• Check into lodge

• Evening relaxation overlooking the forest

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Day

• 7:00 AM briefing at Nkuringo park office

• Trek into the forest to find the Posho family

• Spend an unforgettable adventure with the gorillas

• Return to lodge for lunch

• Optional nature walk or cultural tour

Day 3: Departure

• Visit local craft markets

• Transfer back to Kampala, Entebbe, or continue safari

Posho Gorilla Family — Quick Facts Box

FAQs About the Posho Gorilla Family

1. Is the Posho Gorilla Family open for tourism?

Yes they are available for a 4 hour habituation Experience. They are undergoing habituation so access may be limited, but this can change seasonally.

2. How hard is trekking in the Nkuringo sector?

It is one of the steepest sectors in Bwindi — ideal for fit and adventurous trekkers.

3. How many people trek the Posho gorillas daily?

Typically 4 people. Only a small number of visitors are allowed, maintaining exclusivity.

4. Are children allowed to trek this family?

Only visitors 15 years and above can trek mountain gorillas.

5. What makes the Posho Family different from other groups?

Their new habituation status, scenic home range, and behavioral richness make them uniquely exciting.

6. Can beginners trek the Posho family?

Yes — but proper fitness preparation is recommended. You may also consider hiring a porter.

Conclusion: Why the Posho Gorilla Family Deserves a Spot on Your Uganda Safari

The Posho Gorilla Family is one of the most fascinating additions to Uganda’s gorilla trekking experience. Their presence in the dramatic Nkuringo sector creates a beautiful blend of challenge, discovery, and authentic wildlife observation.

Challenging as it might be, trekking the Posho Family offers:

• A powerful emotional encounter

• An intimate conservation story

• A rare chance to see a newly habituated group

• Breathtaking scenery

• Deep cultural connections with local communities

If you are seeking a gorilla trekking experience that is off the beaten path, deeply immersive, and genuinely unforgettable, the Posho Gorilla Family is the perfect choice.

To book your Gorilla Habituation Safari, simply contact us by filling out the form below.