Kabirizi mountain gorilla family was at first called Ndugutse when it was dominated by a silverback Ndugutse that was caught in a cross fire between Rwanda rebels and Congo army. Kabirizi was a wild lone gorilla until 1998 when he came to head the family.
Kabirizi the dominating silverback is Avery ambitious gorilla renowned for protecting his family from danger in that he even lost his upper and lower canine teeth during a fight with another gorilla. The group inhabits Bukima sector of Virunga national park.
The group’s name changed from Ndugutse to Kabirizi named after a ICCN director who died in a traffic accident in 1990s. Kabirizi is facing challenges from another silverback in the group known as Masibo. Kabirizi mountain gorilla family was composed of 32 individuals at the time of habituation.
Numbers in mountain gorilla groups keep changing so the given number in a particular year can change due to various reasons. Tourists must always follow gorilla trekking rules and regulations especially while in the presence of mountain gorillas.
Gorilla permits in Congo
Gorilla trekking permits in Democratic republic of Congo cost $400 during the dry season and $200 during the low season. Congo offers the cheapest gorilla permits though the security conditions in the country are unpredictable, therefore before buying a gorilla permit in Congo you must first check if its safe to visit the park at that time. Permits must be bought in advance of at least three months especially during the peak season.
What to carry
Mountain gorilla habitat in Congo is composed of rainforests and thick vegetation compared to Rwanda, apart from being physically fit one should be prepared to hike so thru must come with water proof hiking boots, garden gloves, insect repellents, long sleeved and warm clothes, plenty of drinking water, energy giving snacks and so much more.
Best time to visit
Congo can be visited all year round but the best time of the year to visit is in the dry season from June to September when the roads leading to the park are accessible and the trekking trails are in good condition.
