Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park – Meet Each Group

Volcanoes National Park is home to several habituated gorilla groups that travelers can visit during trekking adventures. Many visitors planning a safari with Universal Journeys Rwanda wonder about the different Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park, how many exist, where they live, and what makes each group unique. Understanding the Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park helps trekkers choose the best experience—whether you want an easy hike, a family with playful babies, or a powerful silverback leading a large group.

With this complete guide, you will discover every habituated gorilla group, their sizes, personalities, silverbacks, and trekking difficulty levels. If you are preparing for gorilla trekking in Rwanda in 2025–2027, knowing the Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park makes your adventure even more exciting and meaningful.

Why the Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park Are Important

The Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park are more than wildlife attractions—they represent conservation success, community involvement, and scientific research. Universal Journeys Rwanda supports ethical tourism that protects these endangered animals, funds rangers, and contributes to local livelihoods.

Mountain gorillas live in family units led by a dominant silverback. Each family has its own personality:
Some families are peaceful
Some are playful
Some move long distances and offer exciting trekking
Others are known for babies and mothers

Let’s meet the Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park one by one.

1. Susa A – Famous Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park

Susa A remains one of the most iconic Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park. It once had more than 40 members and became famous through the research of Dian Fossey.

Location: High on Mount Karisimbi
Family Size: About 15–20
Known For: Twin infants and playful juveniles
Trek Difficulty: Hard, for experienced hikers

Universal Journeys Rwanda often assigns fit trekkers to this family because the high-altitude hike rewards travelers with incredible views and unforgettable sightings.

2. Karisimbi Group – High Altitude Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park

The Karisimbi family split from Susa A and lives at even higher elevations.

Location: Upper Karisimbi slopes
Family Size: 10–15 members
Traits: Calm silverback, beautiful alpine scenery
Trek Difficulty: Hard

This Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park is ideal for trekkers who want a challenging mountain adventure.

3. Sabyinyo – Gentle Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park

The Sabyinyo family is easier to reach, making it one of the most recommended groups for short hikes.

Location: Between Sabyinyo and Gahinga
Family Size: Around 12
Known For: One of the largest silverbacks ever—Guhonda
Trek Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Universal Journeys Rwanda often recommends this group for seniors, families, and photographers.

4. Amahoro – Peaceful Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park

“Amahoro” means peace, and this family is known for calm behavior and social harmony.

Location: Slopes of Visoke
Family Size: About 17
Traits: Mother-infant bonding, playful juveniles
Trek Difficulty: Moderate

One of the most emotionally touching Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park.

5. Umubano – Cooperative Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park

Umubano split from Amahoro after a silverback conflict, forming an independent family.

Location: Same region as Amahoro
Family Size: 10–12
Traits: Strong silverback, playful youngsters
Trek Difficulty: Moderate

The name means “living together peacefully.”

6. Agasha – Expanding Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park

Once called Group 13, the Agasha family grew as the dominant silverback added members from other groups.

Location: Low to mid-altitude
Family Size: Up to 25
Traits: Many infants, lively activity
Trek Difficulty: Easy to moderate

A great choice for trekkers who want to see young gorillas.

7. Kwitonda – Wide-Ranging Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park

Kwitonda is a large roaming family with a history of traveling far distances.

Location: Mt. Muhabura
Family Size: 15–20
Traits: Wild scenery and forest views
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

A favorite among trekkers who love adventure.

8. Hirwa – Lucky Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park

“Hirwa” means lucky, and this family became famous for having twins.

Location: Sabyinyo ranges
Family Size: 10–15
Traits: Babies and relaxed mothers
Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Perfect for photographers and families.

9. Bwenge – Historic Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park

Bwenge is linked to Dian Fossey’s legendary research site.

Location: Between Bisoke and Karisimbi
Family Size: Around 11
Traits: Dramatic landscapes, deep forest
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to hard

One of the Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park that inspires emotional storytelling.

10. Ugenda – Mobile Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park

“Ugenda” means mobile, and this family is known for roaming long distances.

Location: Karisimbi and Bisoke slopes
Family Size: Around 11
Traits: Nomadic movement and adventure
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to hard

Ideal for trekkers who want a true wilderness feeling.

How Universal Journeys Rwanda Assigns Gorilla Families

Each morning, trekkers arrive at Kinigi Park Headquarters. Universal Journeys Rwanda works with rangers to assign Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park based on:

Fitness level
Hiking experience
Interest in infants, playful groups, or calm groups
Trail distance and difficulty

No matter which family you receive, the experience is magical and emotional.

Trekking Rules for Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park

To protect the Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park:

Only 8 visitors per family per day
One hour allowed with gorillas
Keep 7 meters distance
No flash photography
Sick visitors cannot trek
Follow ranger instructions

These rules protect gorillas from stress and disease while ensuring safe tourism.

When to Visit the Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking is available all year, but the most popular seasons are:

June–September (dry, easy trails, high demand)
December–February (short dry season, clear views)

Rainy seasons allow quieter trekking but can be muddy.

Where to Stay Near Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park

Universal Journeys Rwanda recommends:

Luxury Lodges:

Bisate Lodge
Singita Kwitonda
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

Mid-Range:

Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Budget:

La Palme Hotel
Garden Place Hotel

All options are close to trekking starting points.

Final Thoughts of Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking is emotional, thrilling, and unforgettable. With more than 10 habituated Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park, every trek offers new stories—mothers caring for babies, silverbacks protecting the group, juveniles tumbling and playing in the trees.

Universal Journeys Rwanda ensures safe transport, professional guiding, lodging, and trekking arrangements, making it easy for travelers to experience the Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park in the most ethical and comfortable way.

Whether you trek Susa A, Sabyinyo, Agasha, or any other group, the moment you make eye contact with a mountain gorilla will stay with you forever.