If you are planning a gorilla trekking tour in Africa, Volcanoes National park is the best place to visit. Located in Musanze, the northwestern part of Rwanda, this park is home to the rare and endangered mountain gorillas. Seeing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is one of the most powerful wildlife experiences in Africa.
In this guide, you will learn about the different gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park, what to expect during trekking, and how to plan your visit.
About Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park is part of the Virunga Mountains, a chain of beautiful volcanoes shared by Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo. The park protects lush rainforest, bamboo forests, and high-altitude ecosystems where mountain gorillas live.
Rwanda is one of only three countries in the world where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild. Gorilla tourism plays a very important role in conservation and community development.
What Are Gorilla Families?
Mountain gorillas live in groups called gorilla families. Each family is led by a dominant male called a silverback. The silverback protects the group and makes decisions for the family.
A gorilla family usually includes:
• One or more silverbacks
• Adult females
• Young gorillas
• Playful babies
In Volcanoes National Park, several gorilla families are habituated. This means they are used to human presence, allowing visitors to safely observe them during gorilla trekking tours.
Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park
Here are some of the most known gorilla families you may visit during your Rwanda gorilla trekking experience:
Susa Family
One of the oldest and most famous groups, once studied by Dian Fossey. This family is known for its history and large size.
Amahoro Family
The name means “peace.” This group is known for its calm behavior and peaceful silverback.
Sabinyo Family
One of the easier groups to trek because it often stays closer to the park boundary.
Agashya Family
Previously called Group 13, this family is known for its strong and protective silverback leader.
Hirwa Family
“Hirwa” means lucky. This group was formed from members of different families.
Bwenge Family
Located around the slopes between volcanoes, this family is a favorite among trekkers.
Karisimbi Family
Named after Mount Karisimbi, this group sometimes requires a longer hike.
Umubano Family
Meaning “togetherness,” this family split from Amahoro and is known for social interaction.
Each gorilla family has its own personality and story. Rangers assign visitors to groups based on fitness level and trekking difficulty.
What to Expect During Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Your gorilla trekking adventure starts early in the morning at the park headquarters in Kinigi.
Step-by-Step Experience:
1. Morning briefing by park rangers
2. Assignment to a gorilla family
3. Drive to the starting point
4. Guided hike through the forest
5. One magical hour with the gorillas
The trekking time can take between 1 to 5 hours depending on where the gorillas are located that day.
When you meet the gorillas, you will spend one hour observing them as they eat, play, and relax in their natural environment. It is a quiet and emotional experience.
Gorilla Trekking Permit in Rwanda
To visit the gorillas, you need a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda.
• Permit price: $1,500 per person
• Minimum age: 15 years
• Maximum 8 visitors per gorilla family per day
It is recommended to book your permit in advance, especially during the high season.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
You can visit gorillas all year round. However, the best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons:
• June to September
• December to February
During these months, the trails are less muddy and hiking is easier.
Why Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Is Special
Rwanda is known as one of the safest and most organized destinations for gorilla trekking in Africa. The country offers:
• Professional park rangers
• Well-managed tourism
• Beautiful landscapes
• Easy access from Kigali (only about 2.5 hours drive)
Gorilla tourism also supports conservation and local communities around Volcanoes National Park.
Tips for Gorilla Trekking Tour
Here are some important tips:
• Wear strong hiking boots
• Bring a rain jacket
• Carry water and snacks
• Hire a porter to help during the hike
• Follow ranger instructions at all times
Being physically prepared will help you enjoy the experience even more.
Plan Your Gorilla Safari in Rwanda
A Rwanda gorilla safari can be combined with other attractions like:
• Golden monkey trekking
• Mount Bisoke hiking
• Dian Fossey tomb hike
• Lake Kivu relaxation
• Nyungwe National Park
• Akagera National Park safari
This makes Rwanda a complete African safari destination.
Visiting the gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Standing just a few meters away from a mountain gorilla in the wild is something you will never forget.
If you are looking for an unforgettable gorilla trekking tour in Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park should be at the top of your travel list.
