Gorilla Families in Rwanda

Gorilla Families in Rwanda: Meet the Mountain Gorillas of Volcanoes National Park

Nestled in the misty Virunga Mountains of northwestern Rwanda lies Volcanoes National Park, one of the most biologically rich and ecologically significant destinations in Africa. This 160 km² stretch of dense rainforest is not only a sanctuary for endangered species, but it is also home to one of the world’s most iconic wildlife attractions: the mountain gorilla.

What makes gorilla trekking in Rwanda particularly special is the opportunity to visit habituated gorilla families, groups of wild gorillas that have been gradually accustomed to the presence of humans. Rwanda boasts more than a dozen such families, each with its own unique structure, story, and personality. Understanding these gorilla families enhances the trekking experience, giving depth and context to your hour spent with these magnificent creatures.

Overview of Gorilla Conservation in Rwanda

Rwanda has played a central role in mountain gorilla conservation since the days of Dian Fossey, whose pioneering research brought international attention to the plight of gorillas. The country’s conservation strategy involves:

  • Habituation of gorilla families for tourism and research

  • Strict trekking regulations to minimize stress and disease transmission

  • Revenue-sharing programs that benefit local communities

  • A gorilla permit system that limits daily visitor numbers

Thanks to these efforts, Rwanda has seen a gradual increase in its mountain gorilla population, now estimated to be over 300 individuals within Volcanoes National Park alone.

Gorilla Families Available for Trekking in Rwanda

As of 2025, there are around 12 habituated gorilla families available for trekking in Rwanda. These groups vary in size, composition, terrain location, and trekking difficulty. Here’s a closer look at the most prominent ones:

1. Susa Family (Susa A)

  • Size: ~33 members (historically the largest)

  • Famous For: Twin gorillas and Dian Fossey’s research

  • Trekking Difficulty: Hard (high elevation)

The Susa group was originally studied by Dian Fossey and remains one of the most famous gorilla families in Rwanda. It inhabits the higher slopes of Mount Karisimbi, making it a challenging but rewarding trek. Notably, the group once had twins—Byishimo and Impano—a rare occurrence among gorillas.

2. Karisimbi Family (Susa B)

  • Size: ~15 members

  • Formed From: A split from the Susa group

  • Trekking Difficulty: Very difficult (highest altitudes)

This group split from the original Susa family and settled even further up Mount Karisimbi. It’s ideal for seasoned hikers or those wanting a full-day trek experience.

3. Sabinyo Family

  • Size: ~13 members

  • Famous For: Dominant silverback “Guhonda,” once the largest in Volcanoes NP

  • Trekking Difficulty: Easy to moderate

The Sabinyo group lives near the park’s edge, making it one of the most accessible families to visit. The late Guhonda, a legendary silverback, was well-known for his imposing size and protective nature.

4. Amahoro Family

  • Size: ~17 members

  • Name Meaning: “Peaceful” in Kinyarwanda

  • Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (steep terrain)

This calm and gentle group is led by Ubumwe, a peaceful silverback. Trekkers should be prepared for a steep climb, but the serenity of the group makes the effort worthwhile.

5. Umubano Family

  • Size: ~11 members

  • Formed From: A split from the Amahoro family

  • Trekking Difficulty: Moderate

Charles, the dominant silverback of the Umubano family, broke off from Amahoro with a few females to form his own group. They often occupy similar terrain to their parent group.

6. Hirwa Family (status may vary)

  • Size: Variable

  • Unique Feature: Known for giving birth to twins

  • Trekking Difficulty: Moderate

Originally from Rwanda, the Hirwa group has crossed over into Uganda’s Mgahinga National Park in the past. Its status occasionally changes based on its location.

7. Agashya Family (Group 13)

  • Size: ~25 members

  • Famous For: Dramatic leadership takeover by Agashya

  • Trekking Difficulty: Moderate

Group 13 was once led by Nyakarima until Agashya challenged and took over leadership—bringing several females into the fold. The group is known for moving frequently and living in varied terrain.

8. Kwitonda Family

  • Size: ~18 members

  • Migrated From: DRC

  • Trekking Difficulty: Hard (base of Mount Muhabura)

Named after its former dominant silverback, Kwitonda (meaning “humble”), this group is known for its calm nature and migration story from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

9. Bwenge Family

  • Size: ~11 members

  • Famous For: Featured in the film Gorillas in the Mist

  • Trekking Difficulty: Difficult (steep slopes of Mount Bisoke)

Led by silverback Bwenge, this group experienced hardships with infant mortality but has rebounded over the years.

10. Muhoza Family

  • Size: ~15–20 members (varies)

  • Led By: Silverback Muhoza

  • Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

The Muhoza group is one of the relatively newer habituated gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park. It was named after its dominant silverback, Muhoza, who formed the group by breaking away from another family and attracting females to establish his own lineage. Known for its dynamic structure and expanding size, this family often inhabits areas around the lower to mid-slopes of the volcanoes, offering a moderately challenging trek.

Muhoza himself is a confident and active leader, and the group is frequently observed for its lively interactions, making it a great choice for visitors interested in seeing strong social behavior among gorillas.

11. Titus Gorilla Group

  • Size: Varies (not always available for tourism)

  • Famous For: Legendary silverback “Titus,” studied by Dian Fossey

  • Trekking Status: Primarily reserved for research, not always accessible to tourists

The Titus group is arguably the most historically significant gorilla family in Rwanda. Named after the legendary silverback Titus, who was born in 1974 during Dian Fossey’s pioneering studies, this group represents the continuity of gorilla research and conservation in the Virunga Mountains.

Titus rose to leadership after surviving immense adversity—losing his entire family in infancy—and ruled as a dominant silverback for over 20 years. His life was extensively documented by researchers and featured in several films and studies.

While the Titus group is not regularly assigned to trekking tourists, its existence highlights the long-term success of gorilla habituation and monitoring programs. On rare occasions, researchers or VIP eco-tourists may be granted access through special permits.

12. Ugyenda Gorilla Family (newer and less well-known)

This group was recently habituated and may be rotated into trekking access as older groups are rested. Their size and locations vary, and they offer fresh trekking opportunities.

Other Emerging Groups

The Rwanda Development Board occasionally rotates access to newly habituated groups to give older gorilla families time to rest from tourism exposure. These new groups, often offshoots from larger families, are carefully introduced to trekking circuits under ranger supervision.

Updates on Group Availability

It’s important to note that gorilla group availability may change due to:

  • Gorilla migration across park boundaries (especially with transboundary families)

  • Births, deaths, or group fissions

  • Shifts in group behavior or habitat zones

  • Conservation strategies such as limiting visitor exposure

Visitors are advised to confirm family options with their tour operator or the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) during booking and before the trek.

With the addition of groups like Muhoza and the historical importance of the Titus group, Rwanda’s gorilla population continues to reflect a rich legacy of conservation, scientific study, and ecotourism. Every family has a distinct narrative—some defined by strong silverbacks like Muhoza, others by decades of research like Titus.

By learning about these families in advance, you not only enrich your trekking experience but also become part of a global story of wildlife preservation and sustainable tourism in one of the last strongholds of the mountain gorilla.

Trekking Rules and Gorilla Family Assignments

Before the trek begins, visitors attend a mandatory briefing at the Kinigi Park Headquarters. During the briefing, trekkers are divided into groups of 8 and assigned to a gorilla family based on:

  • Physical fitness and age

  • Personal interest in a specific group

  • Availability of families that day

  • Trekking difficulty preference

It’s possible to request a specific gorilla family, although this is not always guaranteed. Rangers aim to balance group numbers, trail difficulty, and gorilla locations from the previous day.

Best Time to Visit Gorilla Families in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking is available year-round, but the best times are:

  • Dry Seasons: June to September & December to February

  • Trails are more accessible, and views tend to be clearer.

Permits cost $1,500 per person as of 2025, with limited slots per day. Advance booking is essential, especially in the high season.

Conservation and Community Impact

Visiting habituated gorilla families directly supports:

  • Anti-poaching patrols

  • Veterinary care and research

  • Community development projects

  • Employment for local guides, porters, and rangers

The habituation process itself takes 2–3 years, during which gorillas gradually get used to human presence in a non-threatening way. Tourism helps fund this process, making your visit an integral part of sustainable conservation.

Each gorilla family in Rwanda tells a story of resilience, evolution, and intricate social bonds. From the majestic Susa group to the peaceful Amahoro family, meeting these gorillas is more than a wildlife encounter—it’s a deeply emotional journey that connects us to our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

Choosing Rwanda for your gorilla trek means supporting a nation that has become a global leader in eco-tourism and primate conservation. With knowledgeable guides, expertly managed trekking protocols, and unforgettable wildlife moments, it’s no wonder Volcanoes National Park remains a top destination for gorilla trekking worldwide.