Embark on a journey through the captivating landscapes of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, where the magic of gorilla trekking comes to life. Before planning your enchanting mountain gorilla trek safari, dive into the rich history and stories of the remarkable gorilla families within this magnificent park.
Kwitonda Family
Meet Kwitonda, a family of 18 gorillas with the dominant silverback, Karevuro. This family migrated to Rwanda in 2003, seeking refuge from external pressures. After the demise of the original leader, Kwitonda, in 2012, Karevuro emerged as the new leader. Witness the family’s resilience and dynamics as they navigate the rugged terrains between Mount Sabyinyo and Mount Gahinga.
Kwisanga Family
Discover Kwisanga, a newly formed family of 16 gorillas, led by the dominant silverback, Kigoma. Born out of a split from the Kwitonda group in May 2021, Kwisanga presents a fascinating tale of leadership struggles between Kigoma and Lisanga. Keep an eye on this evolving family as they navigate their way through the lush surroundings.
Muhoza Family
Enter the world of Muhoza, a family of 22 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Marambo. With a question lingering about succession due to the young age of other male gorillas, Muhoza’s fate rests on Marambo’s health. Delve into the family’s history, originating from the Kwitonda group, and observe their growth over the past 7-8 years.
Amahoro Family
Experience the wonders of Amahoro, a family of 22 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Gahinga. Uncover the mystery of Berwa, a 15-year-old male gorilla who has not undergone physical transformation. Journey back to the group’s habituation in 1996, interrupted by war, and witness their resilience as they opened for tourism in 2000.
Umubano Family
Explore Umubano, a family of 11 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Charles. Originating from the Amahoro group, Umubano’s separation was marked by a lack of aggression. Witness the unique interactions as the two groups occasionally meet, interact, and feed together before going their separate ways.
Agashya Family
Meet Agashya, a family of 17 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Agashya. Formerly known as Group 13, the family’s history involves the challenges faced after the death of the original leader, Murthi. Experience the transition of leadership as Agashya took over, culminating in the official naming of the group in 2010.
Susa Family
Step into the legacy of Susa, a family of 16 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Mpuzamahanga. Originally the largest gorilla group, Susa’s split in 2009 resulted in the formation of Susa A and Susa B. Discover the family’s significance in gorilla history, including the first set of surviving twins born in 2004.
Igisha Family
Encounter the grandeur of Igisha, the largest gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park, consisting of 35 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Igisha. Trace the family’s split from the original Susa in 2014 and marvel at Igisha’s protective nature, ensuring the safety of the group.
Isimbi Family
Unveil the story of Isimbi, a family of 21 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Muturengere. Formed through a split from the Karisimbi group in 2012, Isimbi faced challenges after the death of Getty. Witness Muturengere’s leadership as he navigates encounters with other groups and secures the well-being of his family.
Sabyinyo Family
Embark on a journey with Sabyinyo, a family of 15 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Gihishamwotsi. Learn about the group’s origin and the strategic moves made after the death of Silverback Murthi, resulting in the formation of the Sabyinyo family.
Hirwa Family
Discover the resilience of Hirwa, a family of 15 gorillas now led by the dominant silverback, Uburanga, following the sudden death of Munyinya. Explore the group’s history, marked by strategic additions from surrounding groups, and witness the anticipation of twin blackbacks turning into silverbacks.
Titus Family
Celebrate the life of Titus, a family of 9 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Pato. Dive into Titus’s remarkable journey from his birth in 1974 to becoming a respected leader, siring numerous offspring. Explore the family’s dynamics and the transition of leadership after Titus’s passing in 2009.
Segasira Family
Uncover the legacy of Segasira, a family of 8 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Segasira. Born from the lineage of the legendary silverback Titus, Segasira seized the opportunity to form his own family in 2022, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of these majestic creatures.
Pablo Family
Witness the endurance of the Pablo family, consisting of 18 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Ubwuzu. Follow the family’s journey, from the leadership transition after Pablo to the challenges of maintaining a large group. Explore the family’s existence for over 25 years and the dynamics of silverbacks vying for dominance.
Mutobo Family
Delve into the story of Mutobo, a family of 9 gorillas led by the only silverback, Mutobo. Follow the young silverback’s journey as he formed his own group at the age of 14, showcasing the determination and independence of these incredible creatures.
Dushishoze Family
Explore the independence of Dushishoze, a family of 9 gorillas led by the only silverback, Dushishoze. Born in 2003 from the famous Cantsbee, Dushishoze decided to leave Pablo and form his own group, highlighting the individual choices and dynamics within gorilla families.
Kureba Family
Witness the formation of Kureba, a family of 9 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Kureba. Created on June 14th, 2017, this family faced initial difficulties during its formation. Experience the unique journey of Kureba as he reunites with separated members, showcasing the resilience of gorilla families.
Ntambara Family
Step into the world of Ntambara, a family of 14 gorillas led by the dominant silverback, Twibuke. Explore the family’s history, marked by the succession challenges after the deaths of Ntambara and Ugutsinda. Witness Twibuke’s growth into the role of dominant silverback and the thriving dynamics within the group.
As you embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, each family offers a unique and enthralling glimpse into the lives of these incredible creatures. From the youngest members to the seasoned silverbacks, the stories of resilience, leadership, and familial bonds create.
