Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is home to several habituated mountain gorilla families, each with unique characteristics, group dynamics, and terrain preferences. As of 2024, there are 12 habituated gorilla families available for trekking, and visitors are typically assigned to a group on the day of the trek based on fitness level, age, interest, and group size.
Here are some of the most well-known gorilla families you might encounter:
1. Susa A Family
- Group Size: Around 28 members (one of the largest)
- Notable For: Twins named Byishimo and Impano – a rare occurrence in gorilla births.
- Trek Difficulty: One of the most challenging, as they often dwell in high-altitude forested areas.
- Best For: Fit and adventurous trekkers seeking a physically demanding trek and a large group interaction.
2. Amahoro Family
- Group Size: About 17 members
- Notable For: Led by a calm and peaceful silverback named Ubumwe (Amahoro means “peace” in Kinyarwanda).
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate to challenging; often located on steep slopes.
- Best For: Those looking for a serene and rewarding gorilla encounter.
3. Umubano Family
- Group Size: Around 13 members
- Notable For: A breakaway group from Amahoro, led by a dominant silverback named Charles.
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate
- Best For: Visitors interested in observing complex social dynamics and inter-family splits.
4. Sabyinyo Family
- Group Size: Roughly 10-12 members
- Notable For: Formerly led by Guhonda, the largest silverback ever recorded in the park.
- Trek Difficulty: One of the easiest, usually close to the park headquarters.
- Best For: Older travelers or those preferring shorter hikes and easier access.
5. Agashya (Group 13)
- Group Size: Over 20 members
- Notable For: Originally had 13 members, now much larger under the leadership of silverback Agashya.
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate to hard; they move frequently.
- Best For: Visitors open to a bit more hiking and looking for an active group.
6. Kwitonda Family
- Group Size: Around 18 members
- Notable For: Migrated from the Democratic Republic of Congo; often found in the lower slopes.
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate
- Best For: Trekkers seeking a mix of accessibility and depth of interaction.
7. Hirwa Family
- Group Size: Varied due to its mobile nature
- Notable For: Known to sometimes move between Rwanda and Uganda’s Mgahinga Park.
- Trek Difficulty: Variable
- Best For: Those lucky enough to catch the group while it’s within Rwanda’s borders.
8. Titus Family
- Group Size: Smaller
- Notable For: Named after the legendary silverback Titus, who was studied by Dian Fossey.
- Trek Difficulty: Medium to difficult
- Best For: Visitors interested in historical and research significance.
Choosing the Right Gorilla Family:
- If you prefer shorter, less strenuous hikes, ask about Sabyinyo or Umubano.
- If you want to see larger families and twins, request Susa A.
- For rich backstories and legendary silverbacks, consider Titus or Agashya.
- If you want a peaceful viewing experience, Amahoro may suit you.
Ultimately, park rangers make the final assignment to ensure balanced group distribution and visitor safety, but you can express a preference based on your fitness level and interests. No matter which group you visit, the experience is sure to be awe-inspiring and unforgettable.