Rwanda gorilla groups offer remarkably thrilling mountain gorilla trekking experiences. The 12 habituated gorilla families in Rwanda reside in the Volcanoes National Park (Parc Nationale des Volcans). One gorilla family is visited by maximum of 8 (eight) members and Rwanda features as one of the leading destinations for gorilla trekking in Africa. Here is a comprehensive list of Rwanda gorilla groups to visit on gorilla safari in Volcanoes National Park.
Susa A
The Susa A family is remarkably one of the interesting Rwanda gorilla groups. It is from this group where the late Dian Fossey begin her studies in 1967 till 1985 when she mysteriously died. Originally, the group had over 42 individuals but kept splitting creating the Susa B group. The group is named after the Susa River, a scenic river that flows via its territory. Currently, Susa A group composition stands at 28 individuals and includes adults. This family roams around the Karisimbi Volcano’s lower base area.
Susa B (Karisimbi family)
Created after break off from the original Susa A family in 2008, Susa B has a composition of 14 individuals that include one silverback gorilla. This group ranges on the higher slopes of Mt. Karisimbi; also the highest volcano out of the 8 Virunga Volcanoes and this is at an elevation of 4507m.
Sabyinyo group
The Sabyinyo group is comprised of 13 individuals and the group was originally from Group 13. Its members left the group following the death of dominant silverback thus forming the present Sabyinyo gorilla family.
Amahoro group
This gorilla group is notably the most peaceful family in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. It is under the leadership of Ubumwe silverback, a Kinyarwanda word that is translated as peace/serenity. Amahoro group ranges around the Bisoke volcano slopes and consists of 12 members including adults, females, black backs, juveniles, and baby.
Umubano group
Umubano gorilla group originally was part of the Amahoro. It was formed after the leadership of the Amahoro family –Ubumwe was challenged by Charles silverback. The group derives its name from the local word Umubano, which is translated as living together/togetherness/neighborliness. This family also features black backs, juveniles, females and a baby.
Group 13
Agashya (Group 13) has its unique history and originally, it comprised of 13 individuals hence the name –Group 13. This gorilla family was originally headed by Nyakarima silverback but he was challenged by Agashya whose name denotes to ‘News.’
Hirwa gorilla family
Taking its name from local word –Hirwa meaning the lucky one, Hirwa gorilla family is an interesting family of mountain gorillas. The group was created in June 2006 when some of its members split off from Sabyinyo and Agashya family.
Kwitonda group
Kwitonda group in Rwanda ranges in the lower area of Mt. Muhabura. They can roam even to the higher altitudes and exploring this group needs you to be prepared for altitude challenge. The group takes its name from Kwitonda silverback whose name means the humble one.
Ugenda gorilla family
Ugenda gorilla family derives its name from the word Ugenda meaning on the move/mobile. This interesting group is composed of 11 individuals and includes silverbacks. It ranges around the slopes of Mt. Bisoke ad is one of the groups where you may experience challenging treks.
Bwenge
Bwenge is a unique group and some of its members have connection to the Gorillas in the Mist movie. The group takes the name from Bwenge silverback gorilla group. Its name is translated as wisdom in Kinyarwanda local language.
Titus group
Titus group is named after the Titus silverback and this is one of the gorillas that were born during the Dian Fossey era. It is also one of the groups whose members were killed by poachers and Titus remained as the only survivor. The renowned silverback went through challenges growing up but managed to overcome the numerous obstacles. The gorilla members can be spotted around the slopes of Bisoke and Karisimbi Mountains.
Pablo gorilla family
Pablo group is among the numerous Rwanda gorilla groups worth visiting on gorilla trekking tour in Volcanoes National Park. The group was originally spotted by Dian Fossey and was led by Cantsbee silverback. This gorilla group is known for its unique history, best explored while on Rwanda gorilla trekking safari.
In conclusion, when you think of gorilla trekking in Rwanda, there are plenty of opportunities for you to interact with the family of the rare mountain gorillas. This is possible by visiting any of the above gorilla families, each having a distinct history, composition and story to share with the world.
Gorilla permits for gorilla safaris to Volcanoes NP Rwanda
Rwanda is a luxury/high-end gorilla destination with a valid gorilla permit obtainable at USD 1500 per person. The permits must be secured at least 2 to 6 or even a year before the actual visit to see Rwanda gorillas.
Best time to go interact with Rwanda gorillas
The dry season is characterized by favorable weather conditions making it ideal for trekking through the rainforest in search of Eastern lowland gorillas. On your travel calendar, the dry months to mark are June, July, August to September & December, January to February.
Regardless of the season, also consider packing right and should include waterproof hiking boots, a good camera that is free of the flashlight, tin of insect repellent, daypack, long-sleeved shirts, waterproof rain jacket, a pair of socks, long trousers, and more.