Gorilla Families in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is one of the most magical places on Earth — a misty, mountainous sanctuary where the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas thrive in their natural habitat. Located in the northwestern part of the country, the park forms part of the great Virunga Massif, a chain of volcanoes shared by Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Home to several habituated gorilla families, this park offers one of the most accessible and unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Africa. Each gorilla family tells its own story, with unique personalities, social dynamics, and territories that make every trek a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

Understanding Gorilla Families

A gorilla family, also known as a troop, is typically led by a dominant male known as a silverback, who protects and guides the group. The rest of the family consists of females, juveniles, infants, and sometimes younger blackback males. Every group has its own distinct character — some are playful and curious, others calm and composed. Rwanda currently has around 12 habituated gorilla families open for tourism, while several others remain unhabituated for research or conservation purposes.

Each family can be visited by a small group of up to eight trekkers per day, ensuring minimal disturbance and promoting sustainable tourism.

1. Susa Gorilla Family (Susa A)

The Susa Family is the most famous gorilla group in Rwanda, once studied extensively by the late Dr. Dian Fossey. Originally numbering over 40 members, it later split into smaller subgroups. Known for its size, strength, and history, the Susa Family inhabits the upper slopes of Mount Karisimbi — one of the more challenging treks, but also one of the most rewarding.

Highlights include the playful twins Byishimo and Impano, the first surviving twin gorillas ever recorded in the park. The Susa Family is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking an iconic encounter.

2. Karisimbi Family (Susa B)

A splinter group from the original Susa, the Karisimbi Family settled on the upper slopes of Mount Karisimbi. It’s smaller in size but equally fascinating, often seen in serene, less crowded regions of the park. Trekking to see this group can be quite strenuous due to the high altitude, but the panoramic views and quiet beauty of their territory make the journey worthwhile.

3. Amahoro Family

Named after the Kinyarwanda word for “peace,” the Amahoro Family lives up to its name with calm and gentle behavior. Led by the silverback Ubumbwe, this group of around 17 members resides on the slopes of Mount Visoke. They are known for their playful juveniles and relaxed interactions, making them a favorite among visitors.

4. Umubano Family

The Umubano Family, meaning “living together,” was formed when silverback Charles split from the Amahoro group after maturing and challenging the dominant male. Today, Umubano maintains a strong and stable family unit, often found near the same range as Amahoro. They are relatively easy to trek to and known for their inquisitive nature, often approaching visitors with surprising curiosity.

5. Sabyinyo Family

The Sabyinyo Family is one of the easiest to access, making it perfect for travelers who prefer a shorter trek. Led by the mighty silverback Guhonda, one of the largest in the park, this group inhabits the slopes between Mount Sabyinyo and Mount Gahinga. With its close proximity to the park headquarters, Sabyinyo is ideal for first-time trekkers or those seeking a gentler experience without compromising on excitement.

6. Agashya Family (Group 13)

The Agashya Family, formerly known as Group 13, was renamed after its dominant silverback Agashya, meaning “the new one.” The group originally had 13 members but has since grown to over 25. They are often seen roaming between Mount Sabyinyo and Mount Gahinga. Agashya is known for being protective and occasionally relocating his family when he senses threats, which makes tracking them an adventurous experience.

7. Kwitonda Family

Migrating from the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Kwitonda Family has adapted beautifully to the Rwandan side of the Virungas. The group was named after its late silverback Kwitonda, meaning “humble one,” who was renowned for his calm demeanor. After his passing, leadership transitioned to a younger silverback, maintaining the family’s peaceful legacy. They typically inhabit the slopes of Mount Muhabura and Mount Sabyinyo.

8. Hirwa Family

The Hirwa Family, meaning “lucky one,” was formed when individuals from different groups came together naturally. True to its name, the group was fortunate to have been quickly accepted by the park authorities and opened to visitors. Though it migrated temporarily into Uganda’s Mgahinga National Park, it remains part of Rwanda’s recognized gorilla families. Hirwa is known for its sociable nature and once famously had a pair of twins.

9. Ugenda Family

Ugenda means “on the move,” and the name perfectly fits this highly nomadic group. The Ugenda Family roams the forested slopes of Mount Bisoke and often changes its location, making it a more challenging group to track. However, the trek’s unpredictability adds an element of adventure, and encountering this family often feels like stumbling upon a hidden treasure.

10. Bwenge Family

Named after its dominant silverback Bwenge, which means “wisdom,” this family was formed after a series of challenging leadership transitions. Bwenge’s story was featured in the film Gorillas in the Mist, making this group particularly special for those inspired by Dian Fossey’s work. The Bwenge Family lives on the lower slopes of Mount Bisoke, making it moderately easy to access, and is known for its strong social bonds and gentle interactions.

11. Titus Family

The Titus Family carries one of the park’s most legendary lineages. It was led by the famous silverback Titus, who was born during Dian Fossey’s research era and lived to become one of the most studied gorillas in history. Though Titus passed away in 2009, his descendants continue his legacy in the slopes between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. The family is a living testament to Rwanda’s decades of gorilla conservation success.

12. Pablo Family

The Pablo Family is one of the largest and most dominant groups in Volcanoes National Park, with a rich and dynamic history. Originating from the Susa lineage, Pablo’s leadership made the group strong and stable. It remains one of the most closely monitored families due to its size and territorial range, often offering dramatic insights into gorilla social life.

The Experience of Trekking Rwanda’s Gorilla Families

Each trek through Volcanoes National Park is led by experienced rangers and trackers who locate the gorilla groups based on their previous day’s movements. Treks can last anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, winding through bamboo forests, lush meadows, and volcanic slopes. Once you find your assigned family, you’ll spend a magical hour observing their daily life — feeding, grooming, playing, or simply resting in the mist.

Every visit contributes directly to gorilla conservation. A portion of every permit (currently USD 1,500) funds community projects, anti-poaching efforts, and forest protection, ensuring that the gorillas’ future remains secure.

A Legacy of Conservation and Connection

Meeting a gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park is not just an adventure — it’s a privilege born of decades of conservation work. These families symbolize hope, resilience, and the extraordinary bond between humans and nature. Each trek supports ongoing efforts to preserve this harmony, ensuring that future generations can also walk in the misty footsteps of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.