Gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park

Discovering the Distinctive Gorilla Families of Volcanoes National Park – Unique Habituated Groups in Rwanda

Unraveling the mysteries of the gorilla families within Volcanoes National Park is a journey into the heart of Rwanda’s wildlife diversity. Each family is a distinctive entity, offering a unique encounter shaped by factors such as location, trekking challenges, leadership dynamics, and vegetation cover.

Amahoro Gorilla Family

Comprising 18 members and 2 silverbacks, the Amahoro Gorilla Family derives its name from the Kinyarwanda word for ‘peace.’ Nestled on the slopes of Mount Bisoke, the family’s calm demeanor contrasts with the challenges of tracking them, demanding physical fitness to navigate the steep terrain.

Sabinyo Gorilla Family

Formed after the death of the dominant silverback, the Sabinyo Gorilla Family consists of 13 members and 2 silverbacks. Originating from the remnants of another group, it roams around Volcanoes National Park and is relatively easier to track.

Umubano Gorilla Family

Initially consisting of 13 members, including 2 silverbacks, Umubano Family was formed by a silverback named Charles, breaking away from the Amahoro family. Despite the separation, both groups share the same location.

Hirwa Gorilla Family

Comprising 16 members, including 1 silverback, the Hirwa Gorilla Family emerged from the amalgamation of members from groups 13 (Agashya) and Sabinyo. The name ‘Hirwa’ translates to ‘lucky one,’ and in 2011, the family was blessed with twins.

Igisha Gorilla Family – Susa B

Comprising 24 members led by the silverback Igisha, this family originated from the Susa B group in 2014, establishing its own identity. Known for the challenging trek, physical fitness is essential to explore this group in Volcanoes National Park.

Kurira Gorilla Family

Initially starting with 7 members, the Kurira Gorilla Family has grown to 42 members. Created by Dian Fossey in 1974, it is the oldest family, headed by the silverback Kurira Alpha. This family eventually split into two, giving rise to the Igisha family, also known as ‘Susa B.’

Agashya Gorilla Family

Named after the silverback Agashya, this group grew from 13 initial members to 27, occupying the same territory as the Sabinyo group. Known for occasionally venturing deeper into the mountains, the family is vigilant against potential threats.

Kwitonda Gorilla Family

Originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Kwitonda Gorilla Family migrated to the slopes of Mount Muhabura. With 23 members and 4 silverbacks, tracking them can be challenging due to their movements between lower and upper slopes.

Ugenda Gorilla Family

With 11 members, including two silverbacks, the Ugenda Gorilla Family earned its name, meaning ‘mobile,’ due to its nomadic nature. Roaming around Mt. Bisoke, this group is easily located by trekkers, offering a manageable hike.

Bwenge Gorilla Family

Comprising 11 members, including one silverback, the Bwenge Gorilla Family, named after the silverback Mwenge, was formed in 2007. The group strolls around the slopes of Mt. Bisoke, providing an accessible trek for those not accustomed to long-distance hikes.

Titus Gorilla Family

Named after the iconic silverback Titus, this family’s history dates back to Dian Fossey’s research at Karisoke. Titus, having lost his family to poachers, emerged as a resilient silverback, and the group now resides on the slopes of Mount Karisimbi.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Trek Africa Expeditions to trek these remarkable gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.