The Habituated Gorilla Family Groups in Rwanda

Habituated Gorilla Families in Rwanda

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to some of the world’s most magnificent creatures—the mountain gorillas. With over 10 habituated gorilla family groups, this park offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Each gorilla family has its own structure, personality, and dynamics, making every trekking experience truly unique.

At Volcanoes Nation Park (Parc Des Volcans) is home to 10 habituated gorilla family groups with 1 set aside for research purpose IKwita Izina ceremony family group. To ensure conservation and regulation, only 8 individuals can visit each gorilla family group. As a result, Volcanoes National Park issues 80 gorilla trekking permits daily, providing limited but exclusive access to these incredible experiences.

Gorilla Family Groups in Volcanoes National Park

1. Susa Family (Susa A)

The Susa Family, named after the Susa River, is one of the largest and most popular groups. With around 33 members, it includes playful juveniles, nurturing mothers, and dominant silverbacks. This family gained fame through Dian Fossey’s research 1967 – 1985. This was a very large group of about 42 members but later slipt into 2 groups; forming the SUSA B or Karisimbi group; settling at the slopes of Mt Karisimbi. Susa A currently consist of 33 members and can be trekked any time of the year.

• Highlights: Known for twins Byishimo and Impano.
• Trekking Difficulty: Challenging due to the family’s high-altitude range.

2. Igisha Family (Formerly Susa B/Karisimbi Group)

The Igisha Family split from the Susa Family and now thrives with over 20 members. This group is led by the dominant silverback Igisha, known for his strength and leadership. It’s settled at the higher altitude of Mt Karisimbi slopes, the highest Volcanoe at Parc Des Volcans in Rwanda.

• Highlights: Observing the silverback’s protective behaviour.
• Trekking Difficulty: Tough Hike

3. Amahoro Family

The Amahoro Family, meaning “peace” in Kinyarwanda, lives up to its name. This group is peaceful, with around 17 members led by the calm and gentle silverback Ubumwe. It’s settled around the slopes of Mt Bisoke. Due to its calmness, Ubumwe lsot some family members to Umubano family group.

• Highlights: It’s best Known for its serene interactions.
• Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.

4. Umubano Family

The Umubano Family, which means “cooperation,” split from the Amahoro group. This group is led by Charles, a silverback who took charge after a rivalry with Ubumwe. Charles constantly attacked Ubumwe until he Charles broke away with some members forming the Umubano family group. It’s made of 13 members and with 2 silverbacks.

• Highlights: Engaging dynamics between Charles and his members.
• Trekking Difficulty: Offers Moderate/ Medium Hike

5. Sabyinyo Family

The Sabyinyo Family is one of the easiest groups to track. Led by the powerful and charismatic silverback Guhonda, this group has 12 members. This group resides at the lower slopes of Mt Sabyinyo and Mt Gahinga and was named after Mt Sabyinyo – the Old man’s teeth. It’s leader Guhonda, weighs over 220kg and the largest silverback in the Volcanoes National Park.

• Highlights: Great for beginner trekkers due to their proximity to park headquarters.
• Trekking Difficulty: Offers Easy Hikes

6. Agashya Family

The Agashya Family, also known as Group 13, began with just 13 members and has grown significantly under the leadership of Agashya, a silverback known for his strategic moves into 27 members. It’s settled at the slopes of Mt Sabyinyo and Mt Gahinga but some times moves deeper into the forest for protection.

• Highlights: Unique behaviours of the silverback Agashya.
• Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to Easy Hike

7. Kwitonda Family

The Kwitonda Family, named after its late silverback Kwitonda, is a migratory group that migrated from The Democratic Republic of Congo. They are usually found at the lower slopes of Mount Muhabura though sometimes moves to higher altitudes. This family group is made of 23 gorillas with 4 silverbacks under the leadership of Kwitonda.

• Highlights: Frequent movement and active dynamics.
• Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.

8. Hirwa Family

The Hirwa Family, meaning “lucky,” split from the Sabyinyo Family and formed a unique bond, making it one of the most cohesive gorilla groups. This smaller group of around 10 members emerged in 2006 when some members broke away from the Sabyinyo group and others left Group 13 (Agashya).

Notably, in 2011, the group truly lived up to its name, “the lucky one,” by welcoming twins—a rare and joyous event. The Hirwa Family has since settled on the scenic slopes of Mount Sabyinyo and Mount Gahinga, offering trekkers a rewarding experience.

• Highlights: Excellent for observing group harmony.
• Trekking Difficulty: Easy to moderate.

9. Titus Family

The Titus Family, named after its famous late leader Titus, showcases remarkable resilience and strong bonds. Dian Fossey extensively studied this group, highlighting their unique dynamics. Additionally, their compelling history makes them a must-see for trekkers seeking a deeper connection to conservation efforts..

• Highlights: Rich history connected to conservation efforts.
• Trekking Difficulty: Moderate.

10. The Ugenda group

Ugenda gorilla family gets its name from the Kinyarwanda word “Ugenda,” meaning “on the move.” This name reflects the group’s habit of frequently moving from one location to another. With 11 members, including two silverbacks, the family resides around the slopes of Mount Karisimbi. However, their constant movement makes them challenging to track. Despite the trekking difficulty, encountering this dynamic group is a rewarding experience for those seeking adventure.

• Highlights: It’s always moving from one place to another/never settles down
• Trekking Difficulty: Challenging

11. Bwenge group

The Bwenge family group, featured in the movie Gorillas in the Mist, is the largest gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park. Its name comes from the Kinyarwanda word “Bwenge,” meaning wisdom.

This remarkable group came to prominence in 2007, led by the silverback Bwenge. You can find them on the slopes between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi. The family consists of 11 members and is accessible for trekking throughout the year. With its rich history and accessible location, the Bwenge family offers an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.

• Highlights: Observing large family dynamics.
• Trekking Difficulty: Challenging.

FAQs About Gorilla Families in Rwanda

How many gorilla families are there in Volcanoes National Park?

The park is home to over 10 habituated gorilla families, offering plenty of options for trekking.

How long does a gorilla trek take?

A trek can last between 1 to 4 hours, depending on the family’s location.

Are gorilla families aggressive?

No, habituated gorilla families are accustomed to human presence. They are peaceful if visitors follow park guidelines.

What should I pack for gorilla trekking?

Pack sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, gloves, long-sleeved clothes, sunscreen, and a waterproof backpack.

What is the best time to visit?

The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) offer the best trekking conditions.

Discovering the habituated gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park is a truly enriching experience. Each family offers a unique glimpse into the lives of these endangered creatures, making Rwanda a top destination for nature lovers.