Best Gorilla Families to Visit in Rwanda
The Best Gorilla Families to Visit in Rwanda ‘s Volcanoes National Park such as Kwitonda, Agashya and Susa draw visitors from all over the world. Other families like Amahoro, Hirwa, Bwenge, Umubano, and Ugenda also present exciting opportunities to see these magnificent creatures. Whether you’re looking for a larger group or a more intimate experience, there’s a gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park that suits your preferences. However, it’s important to consider factors like terrain, group size, and availability when planning your gorilla trek. This guide highlights the best gorilla families to visit in Rwanda and gives you all the details you need for a successful trek.
Kwitonda Gorilla Family – Rwanda’s Largest Group
The Kwitonda family is the biggest group in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. It includes over 20 individuals. Kwitonda means “humble one” in the local Kinyarwanda language. The family used to live in the Democratic Republic of Congo before moving to Rwanda. The group settled in the lower slopes of Mount Muhabura. This area has thick vegetation, which gives the gorillas lots of food and shelter. Trekkers need a good fitness level to reach this group. The hike is long and steep in most parts. The family includes silverbacks, mothers, juveniles, and playful babies. Many people choose this group for its size and active members. A large family like this shows many gorilla behaviors in one visit.
Agashya Gorilla Family – Led by a Bold Silverback
Agashya is the name of the silverback leading this interesting family. He took control after challenging Nyakarima, the previous leader. Agashya means “news” in Kinyarwanda, a name earned after surprising everyone with the takeover. The family often moves to higher slopes of Mount Sabyinyo. This area includes steep climbs and thick forest trails. Trekkers who visit Agashya should expect a longer and harder walk. The family has more than 15 individuals including females, young ones, and blackbacks. Visitors enjoy watching Agashya protect his group and lead them through the forest. His leadership shows clear behavior patterns among gorillas.
Susa Gorilla Family – Made Famous by Dian Fossey
The Susa group is one of the oldest and most famous in Volcanoes National Park. Dian Fossey studied this group for many years. She helped bring attention to the need for gorilla conservation. The Susa family lives near the slopes of Mount Karisimbi. Trekkers often prepare for long hikes to reach them. The terrain is rough and often wet. The family once had over 40 members but later split into smaller groups. Susa A and Susa B came from this original group. Trekkers enjoy seeing twins in this group, which are rare among gorillas. This family suits people with strong hiking skills and a deep interest in gorilla history.
Amahoro Gorilla Family – A Peaceful Group in the Hills
Amahoro means “peace” in the local language. This group lives on the slopes of Mount Visoke. The family includes a calm silverback named Ubumwe who treats all members gently. Trekkers enjoy watching the group move slowly through the bamboo forests. This group is a great choice for people who want a more peaceful visit. The terrain is moderate, but the walk still takes several hours. The family includes females, infants, and a few playful juveniles. This group suits visitors who want to avoid aggressive displays from silverbacks. Amahoro gives a gentle view into gorilla life.
Hirwa Gorilla Family – A Small Group with Big Energy
The Hirwa group formed when some members left Susa and other families. Hirwa means “the lucky one.” This family stays near the foothills of Mount Sabyinyo. Trekkers often enjoy shorter hikes to reach them, depending on the season. The group is smaller in size but very active and fun to watch. Visitors enjoy the playful interactions among younger members. This group suits people who want easier access and lots of movement among gorillas. The group once moved to Uganda but later returned to Rwanda. Today, the Hirwa family is again available for trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Bwenge Gorilla Family – A Strong and Steady Group
Bwenge means “wisdom” in Kinyarwanda. This family formed after some individuals left other groups. They now live around the slopes of Mount Bisoke. The group includes one leading silverback and several females. Visitors often face steep climbs when visiting Bwenge. However, the group is known to stay in one area for days. This makes it easier for guides to locate them. The group offers quiet moments with the gorillas and fewer sudden movements. Many trekkers enjoy this group for its calm setting and structured behavior. Bwenge offers a clear view of gorilla bonding and feeding habits.
Umubano Gorilla Family – Built Around Unity and Trust
Umubano means “togetherness” or “unity.” This family started when the silverback Charles left the Amahoro group. He took some members and formed a new group. The family now lives near Mount Visoke, not far from Amahoro’s range. Charles is a strong but respectful leader. He avoids fights and keeps the group together. The family includes younger males learning leadership skills. Trekkers enjoy this group for its calm nature and close-knit members. Hikes to Umubano are moderate and not very steep. This group suits families or older visitors who want a steady and peaceful walk.
Ugenda Gorilla Family – Always on the Move
Ugenda means “mobile” or “one that moves.” As the name shows, this group often changes location. They move across the lower slopes of Mount Karisimbi and surrounding areas. Trekkers face a harder time locating this group due to its roaming nature. However, the guides use fresh signs like dung and broken plants to track them. The group is medium-sized with a few young ones. People who enjoy adventure and surprises often choose Ugenda. Every visit to this group feels different because of their movement. This group is best for fit hikers ready for a long trek.
Other Gorilla Groups in Rwanda Worth Noting
Besides the main families listed above, several others live within Volcanoes National Park. The Karisimbi group is large and lives far up Mount Karisimbi. This makes the trek very long and tiring. Only very fit people should try to visit this group. The Titus group is named after a silverback that Dian Fossey studied. Titus died, but the group still carries his name. This family gives visitors a deeper look into gorilla history. Susa B is another group that split from the original Susa family. All these groups are available depending on the day and season.
Factors to Think About Before Choosing a Gorilla Group
First, think about your fitness level. Some gorilla families live far in the forest. Reaching them means climbing steep hills. People who walk often and stay active will enjoy the harder hikes. Those with less fitness should choose groups closer to park entry points.
Next, think about group size. Some visitors enjoy seeing large families like Kwitonda. Others like smaller groups such as Umubano for more quiet time. Bigger groups show more activity. Smaller groups allow better views of each member.
Also, think about availability. Gorilla permits are few, and some groups get booked early. Tour operators like Iconic Africa Safaris help you book in advance. Early booking helps you get the group you prefer.
Permits and Bookings for Gorilla Visits in Rwanda
To visit mountain gorillas in Rwanda, every person must hold a trekking permit. These permits are given out by the Rwanda Development Board. Each permit costs around $1,500. This price helps fund gorilla protection and park maintenance.
Tour companies such as Iconic Africa Safaris help you secure permits. They also arrange transport, guides, and lodging. It’s smart to book your permit several months before your trip. The park allows only a few people per group per day. This rule protects the gorillas and gives visitors a better experience.