The Ultimate Guide to Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Rwanda is recognized as one of the best destinations for anyone interested in gorilla trekking. Specifically, ten gorilla families are found within Volcanoes National Park. These groups are categorized into those for research and those available for daily tours. To clarify, the Shida and Beetsme families are accessed only by scientists and researchers.
Only 8 people are allowed to visit each habituated family every day. Moreover, a valid gorilla trekking permit must be possessed by every visitor. The experience is shaped by the unique personality and location of each troop. In addition, learning who Dian Fossey was adds depth to these volcanic encounters.
The Legendary Susa and Karisimbi Families
Susa Family (Susa A)
The Susa family was once composed of 42 members before it was split. Undoubtedly, it is preferred by visitors due to the presence of playful twins. One of the oldest habituated gorillas, Poppy, is also found within this group. However, the family inhabits high altitudes which makes tracking quite difficult.
Karisimbi Family (Susa B)
This group was split from the original Susa family in 2008. As a result, 16 members are now found on the slopes of Mount Karisimbi. It is identified as one of the hardest families to trek in the park. Indeed, a participant must be in good shape to endure this long journey.
Families of Wisdom and Peace
Bwenge Family
The name “Bwenge” is translated to mean wisdom in the local language. Notably, the family was formed in 2007 by the dominant silverback Bwenge. It is frequently found on the slopes of Mount Karisoke with 11 members. Equally important, this is considered one of the easiest families to trek.
Amahoro Family
The word “Amahoro” is used to signify peace within this gentle troop. Truly, it is headed by Ubumwe and consists of 17 peaceful members. The family lives on the steep slopes of Mount Visoke. Consequently, climbing these slopes makes the trek adventurous and highly loved.
Unique Troops and Territorial Leaders
Sabyinyo Family
Guhonda, the largest silverback in the park, leads this group of 13. In fact, he is known to weigh approximately 220 kilograms. The family is named after Mount Sabyinyo and stays near park headquarters. To be sure, it is often chosen by those seeking a shorter trek.
Agashya Family
This family of 25 is headed by the fierce silverback Agashya. By comparison, it was formerly known as “Group 13” before his takeover. The family is difficult to track because they often flee to the volcano top. Clearly, this behavior is triggered whenever Agashya senses any trouble.
Hirwa Family
The name “Hirwa” is translated as “the lucky one” by the local community. Remarkably, members from Sabyinyo and Group 13 joined this troop voluntarily. This rare occurrence is observed on the slopes of Mount Sabyinyo. Besides this, the family includes twins and is led by a protective leader.
Mobile and International Groups
Ugenda Family
The term “Ugenda” is used to describe a group that is always on the move. In particular, these 11 members are known for never settling in one place. Tracking this family is always hard due to their frequent location changes. Hence, it is habituated around the challenging Karisimbi area.
Kwitonda Family
The “humble one” is the meaning behind the name of this 18-member family. Likely, the troop originated from Congo before moving into Rwanda. They inhabit the slopes of Mount Muhabura over a wide geographical area. As a consequence, tracking them is often described as a difficult task.
Umubano Family
The word “Umubano” is used to describe the act of living together. Specifically, this family was formed by Charles after breaking away from Amahoro. It consists of 11 members and is found near the slopes of Mount Visoke. Indeed, it is visited by many tourists because it is easy to track.
