Gorilla Groups in Rwanda: A Guide to the Habituated Families of Volcanoes National Park.
Rwanda, home to the famous Volcanoes National Park, is one of the best destinations for gorilla trekking.
The park is home to several habituated gorilla groups, making it possible for visitors to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. These gorilla families have been carefully studied and protected through conservation efforts, and each group has a unique dynamic and story.
Habituated Gorilla Groups in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park is home to 10 habituated gorilla families, which are available for trekking. These families spread across the park’s mountainous terrain, and the groups vary in size and composition. Here’s a closer look at some of the well-known groups.
1. Susa Group
The Susa group is the largest with over 28 members and one of the most famous gorilla families in Rwanda. It was the first group to be habituated for tourism in the early 1970s. Led by Karisimbi, a dominant silverback, the Susa Gorilla Group resides in the remote Susa Volcano area at a high altitude. Reaching this group is physically demanding, as trekkers must navigate dense vegetation and steep terrain. Known for its social behaviors, the group features many playful young gorillas. Visitors enjoy the chance to observe a large, cohesive family in a rugged, breathtaking environment.
2. Amahoro Group
The Amahoro group, whose name means “peace” in Kinyarwanda, is known for its calm and peaceful nature. Led by the gentle silverback Ubumwe, the group is of 17 members and often considered one of the friendliest. The members interact in a relaxed and harmonious manner. The group lives on the lower slopes of the Virunga Mountains, making it easier to trek to compared to higher-altitude groups. Visitors can enjoy a moderate hike and witness peaceful behaviors, like grooming and quiet social interactions, in a tranquil setting.
3. Hirwa Group
The Hirwa group is known for its dynamic and energetic nature. Ruhengeri, a young but strong silverback, leads the group, which formed from the merging of several smaller groups. The group is very social, with frequent playful interactions, particularly among the young gorillas. The trek to see the Hirwa group is moderate in difficulty, and visitors often witness lively displays of interaction between the family members. The group’s energy and social behaviors make it a captivating experience for trekkers.
4. Titus Group
The Titus group is one of the oldest and most historically significant gorilla families in Rwanda with 13 members in it. Named after the legendary silverback Titus, who led the family for many years, the group is now led by Karisimbi, Titus’ son. The group is known for its mature members and is a symbol of the success of Rwanda’s gorilla conservation efforts. The family resides in the lower parts of the park, making it easier to access. The Titus group offers trekkers the chance to connect with the history of Rwanda’s gorilla protection and witness a family with a deep legacy in conservation.
5. Kwitonda Group
The Kwitonda group is a large and strong family with 18 members led by the silverback Kwitonda, known for his calm and composed leadership style. The group is located in the northern part of Volcanoes National Park, which requires a more strenuous trek to reach. Kwitonda’s group is cohesive, with the family often seen engaging in social behaviors such as grooming and feeding. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and visitors enjoy the experience of observing one of the most impressive families in the park.
6. Sabyinyo Group
The Sabyinyo group is led by Guhonda, one of the largest silverbacks in Rwanda. This group is known for its calm and peaceful nature, with many members often seen resting or foraging in the forest. The group resides on the lower slopes of Volcanoes National Park, making it an easier trek compared to some of the more remote families. The Sabyinyo group is a great choice for trekkers who want a more relaxed experience, with the opportunity to observe Guhonda and other members of the group in a serene setting.
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers a variety of gorilla trekking experiences, each group with its unique characteristics. Whether you’re looking for a physically challenging trek with the Susa group, a historical experience with the Titus group, or a peaceful encounter with the Amahoro group, there is a family for every kind of adventurer. Each trek allows you to witness the remarkable social behaviors of these endangered creatures and connect with Rwanda’s efforts to protect them.
