Mountain Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Mountain Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, Rwanda stands out as a premier travel destination, largely due to its remarkable population of mountain gorillas. Located in the northwestern region of the country, Volcanoes National Park is home to approximately 12 habituated gorilla families.
These families have become accustomed to human presence, making gorilla trekking a popular activity for visitors. Given the number of habituated gorillas, up to 96 permits are available daily for those looking to gorilla trekking and observe these mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Each gorilla family in Rwanda has unique traits and characteristics, and tourists are assigned to specific groups during their visit. If you’re planning a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda, here are the families you might encounter:
Sabinyo gorilla family has eight members
Sabinyo Gorilla Family
The Sabinyo gorilla family consists of eight members, led by the dominant silverback Guhonda, who weighs over 210 kilograms. Guhonda is the largest silverback in Rwanda. This family resides near the Sabinyo volcano, which is also the origin of their name. In Kinyarwanda, “Sabinyo” translates to “old man’s teeth.” The dominant silverback ensures unity within the group. Visitors have the opportunity to hike Sabinyo and Mt. Gahinga, as the gorillas often frequent these areas.
Umubano Gorilla Family
Originally part of the Amahoro gorilla family, the Umubano group was formed when Charles, one of the males, decided to split from Umubwe. Now, the Umubano family has thirteen members, including two dominant male silverbacks. The name “Umubano” means “living together.”
Amahoro Gorilla Family
The Amahoro gorilla family is known for its peaceful nature, with 18 members and two silverbacks. “Amahoro” means “peaceful” in Kinyarwanda. This tranquility might explain why some members left to form the Umubano family. Trekking to see the Amahoro family requires physical fitness, as you’ll need to hike Mt. Bisoke. They are considered one of the most serene gorilla families in Rwanda.
Hirwa gorilla family has 16 members
Hirwa Gorilla Family
Formed in 2006 from members of the Sabinyo and Agashyas families, the Hirwa gorilla family now has 16 members, led by a dominant silverback. “Hirwa” means “lucky one,” a fitting name since the family was blessed with twins. To see the Hirwa family, visitors must trek to the foothills of Mount Sabinyo.
Bwenge Gorilla Family
Established in 2007 by Bwenge, who was later joined by other gorillas, the Bwenge family was named after its leader. “Bwenge” means “wisdom” in Kinyarwanda. The group resides on the slopes of Karisoke, between Bisoke and Karisimbi mountains. Despite losing six members, the family now has eleven, with one dominant silverback. Tracking this wise gorilla family promises memorable experiences.
Ugenda Gorilla Family
The Ugenda family, named for its mobile nature (“Ugenda” means “on the move”), inhabits the Karisimbi Mountains. With eleven members and two dominant silverbacks, this family is known for traveling long distances, requiring visitors to trek considerable distances to observe them.
Kwitonda Gorilla Family
The Kwitonda gorilla family, believed to have originated from the Democratic Republic of Congo, is known for its occasional crossings into Congolese territory. Named after the dominant silverback Kwitonda, the family is often seen on the lower slopes of Mt. Muhavura and Karisimbi. The group comprises 23 individuals, including four silverbacks.
Agashya Gorilla Family (Group 13)
Led by the silverback Agashya, this family, also known as Group 13, was formed after Agashya took over from Nyakarima. The group has twenty-seven members and shares its habitat with the Sabinyo family. When sensing danger, they retreat deeper into the mountains.
Karisimbi Gorilla Family
Residing on the slopes of Mount Karisimbi Volcano, the Karisimbi Gorilla Family, originally part of Susa A, split in 2008 to form their own group. Known as Susa B, this family has sixteen members and two silverbacks. Tracking them can be challenging due to their long-distance movements, sometimes leading to canceled treks. Physical fitness is essential for this adventure, offering stunning views of Mount Karisimbi.
Susa Gorilla Family (Susa A)
Made famous by Dian Fossey during her research, the Susa Gorilla Family is renowned for its twins and playful behavior. Named after a nearby river, the group has 33 members, including two silverbacks, and can be found in the jungles on the lower slopes of Mt. Karisimbi. The Susa family is also the origin of the Karisimbi gorilla family, known as Susa B.
Titus Gorilla Family
Named after the silverback Titus, who lived during Dian Fossey’s research at the Karisoke Research Center, the Titus family faced hardships due to poachers. Despite losing members, including neighbors, Titus was raised by unrelated males. Fossey described young Titus as underdeveloped and spindly, but he overcame these challenges.
gorilla trekking & habituation experiences
Rwanda offers a unique opportunity to observe and learn about various mountain gorilla families, each with its own story and characteristics. Even if you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time visitor, the experience of encountering these mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is unforgettable.