Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is home to several habituated mountain gorilla families. These groups are open for tourism and research, and each has its own story, personality, and structure. Knowing about the gorilla families makes the trekking experience even more exciting, because visitors can request a group that matches their fitness and interest.
How Many Gorilla Families Are in Volcanoes National Park?
Today, Volcanoes National Park has around 12 habituated gorilla families available for trekking. Some groups live close to the park entrance, while others require longer hikes deep into the forest. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) manages gorilla trekking and assigns families each morning at the park headquarters in Kinigi.
Popular Gorilla Families
- Susa Family: One of the largest and most famous groups. It was studied by Dian Fossey. The family often stays high on the slopes of Mount Karisimbi, making the trek more challenging.
- Karisimbi Family: A split from the original Susa group, also found on the slopes of Mount Karisimbi.
- Amahoro Family: Known for peace and calm. The name “Amahoro” means “peace” in Kinyarwanda.
- Umubano Family: Formed when a silverback split from the Amahoro group. It is smaller but very active.
- Sabyinyo Family: One of the easiest groups to reach, led by one of the largest silverbacks in the park, Guhonda.
- Agashya Family: Also called “Group 13,” it was once made up of only 13 members but has since grown larger.
- Kwitonda Family: Originally moved from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Known for being gentle and calm.
- Hirwa Family: The name means “lucky.” It formed when members joined from different groups.
- Ugenda Family: Its name means “mobile” or “always on the move,” as the group does not have a fixed home range.
- Bwenge Family: Located on the slopes of Karisoke, often linked to Dian Fossey’s research area.
Choosing a Gorilla Family
When booking a gorilla trek, visitors can request the type of trek they prefer. Some families are close to the park headquarters, making them suitable for visitors who want shorter hikes. Other families live far in the mountains, offering tougher treks for those seeking adventure. Rangers at Kinigi match tourists to groups depending on fitness level, age, and interest.
Each gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park is unique. From the calm Amahoro group to the powerful Susa family, the experience of meeting these gorillas is unforgettable. Learning about the families before trekking helps visitors connect more deeply with Rwanda’s most famous wildlife encounter.