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To take on a gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park, you must secure a gorilla permit. This permit grants you the incredible opportunity to spend at least an hour with a fully habituated gorilla family. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is responsible for selling and regulating these permits, ensuring a well-organized and sustainable tourism experience.

Each day, a limited number of gorilla permits are available to the public, with a maximum of 8 visitors allowed per gorilla family. Currently, there are 12 habituated gorilla families open for trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Some of these families include Susa, Igisha, Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Agashya, Kwitonda, Umubano, Hirwa, Bwenge, Ugyenda, and Muhoza.

Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its stable and secure environment, making it a prime destination for gorilla trekking. The Park is located in the Virunga Mountains, a region known for its lush landscapes and rich biodiversity. Unlike some other regions, Volcanoes National Park benefits from strong conservation efforts and a supportive local community, which helps protect the mountain gorillas and their habitat.

The experience of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is truly unique. With expert guides leading the way, trekkers can navigate the park’s bamboo-covered slopes and dense forests to find the gorilla families. Each trek offers a chance to witness the daily lives of these gentle giants, from playful juveniles to the powerful silverbacks that lead the groups. It’s an adventure that promises unforgettable memories and a deep connection with nature.

For now, some of these families in Volcanoes National Park available for the public include Susa, Igisha, Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Agashya, Kwitonda, Umubano, Hirwa, Bwenge, Ugyenda, and Muhoza.

Susa Gorilla Trekking Family

The Susa family is one of the most famous gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park. Dominated by the silverback Kurira, this family is known for its large size, often boasting over 30 members. The Susa family gained international fame due to the presence of twins Byishimo and Impano, a rare occurrence among mountain gorillas. These twins have captivated the hearts of many visitors and researchers alike.

The Susa family is typically found in the higher altitudes of the park, making the trek to see them a bit more challenging but incredibly rewarding. The family is known for its playful juveniles and the strong bond between its members. Kurira, the dominant silverback, is a powerful and protective leader, ensuring the safety and cohesion of his group.

Visitors to Volcanoes National Park often prioritize seeing the Susa family due to their size and the unique dynamics within the group. The family’s interactions provide a fascinating glimpse into the social structure and behavior of mountain gorillas. Whether it’s watching the twins play or observing Kurira’s leadership, a visit to the Susa family is an unforgettable experience.

Igisha Gorilla Trekking Family

The Igisha family, led by the silverback Igisha, is a splinter group that originally broke away from the Susa family. This group is known for its strong and cohesive unit, with Igisha providing firm leadership. The family is relatively smaller compared to the Susa family, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in unity and strength.

Igisha, the dominant silverback, is known for his calm yet assertive demeanour. He ensures that the family stays together and maintains a peaceful environment. The Igisha family is often found in the lower altitudes of the park, making them more accessible to trekkers. This accessibility, combined with the family’s intriguing dynamics, makes them a popular choice for visitors.

The Igisha family offers a unique opportunity to observe the social interactions and behaviours of mountain gorillas. From grooming sessions to the playful antics of the younger members, each visit provides new insights into the lives of these incredible creatures. Igisha’s leadership and the family’s close-knit nature make them a fascinating group to observe.

Karisimbi Gorilla Trekking Family

The Karisimbi family, named after the Karisimbi volcano, is known for its high-altitude dwelling. Led by the silverback Nyagakangaga, this family is often found in the upper reaches of the park, near the slopes of Mount Karisimbi. The trek to see the Karisimbi family can be challenging due to the altitude, but the experience is well worth the effort.

Nyagakangaga, the dominant silverback, is a formidable leader known for his strength and protective nature. The family is relatively large and includes several females and juveniles. The Karisimbi family’s high-altitude habitat provides a unique environment for observing mountain gorillas, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Visitors who trek to see the Karisimbi family are often rewarded with sightings of the gorillas in their natural, undisturbed habitat. The family’s interactions, from feeding to socializing, offer a captivating glimpse into the daily lives of mountain gorillas. Nyagakangaga’s leadership and the family’s high-altitude home make them a must-see for adventurous trekkers.

Sabyinyo Gorilla Trekking Family

The Sabyinyo family is one of the most accessible gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park. Led by the silverback Guhonda, the oldest silverback in the park, this family is known for its stability and peaceful nature. Guhonda’s leadership has ensured the family’s cohesion and safety over the years.

The Sabyinyo family is often found in the lower altitudes of the park, making them an ideal choice for trekkers looking for a less strenuous hike. The family’s interactions are a delight to observe, with Guhonda’s calm and protective presence providing a sense of security for the group. The family includes several females and juveniles, each contributing to the group’s dynamics.

Visitors to the Sabyinyo family can expect to see a range of behaviours, from grooming and feeding to playful interactions among the younger members. Guhonda’s leadership and the family’s accessibility make them a popular choice for those looking to experience the magic of gorilla trekking without the challenge of a high-altitude trek.

Amahoro Gorilla Trekking Family

The Amahoro family, whose name means “peace” in Kinyarwanda, is known for its tranquil nature. Led by the silverback Ubumwe, this family embodies the essence of peace and harmony. Ubumwe’s calm and gentle leadership has created a serene environment for the family, making them a favourite among visitors.

The Amahoro family is often found in the mid-latitudes of the park, providing a moderate trek for visitors. The family’s interactions are characterized by their peaceful and cooperative nature, with Ubumwe ensuring that conflicts are minimal. The family includes several females and juveniles, each contributing to the group’s dynamics.

Visitors to the Amahoro family can expect to see a range of behaviours, from grooming and feeding to playful interactions among the younger members. Ubumwe’s leadership and the family’s peaceful nature make them a fascinating group to observe. The Amahoro family’s serene environment offers a unique and calming experience for trekkers.

Agashya Gorilla Trekking Family

The Agashya family, led by the silverback Agashya, is known for its frequent movements and dynamic nature. The name Agashya means “the news” in Kinyarwanda, reflecting the family’s ever-changing dynamics. Agashya’s leadership is characterized by his adventurous spirit and ability to adapt to new environments.

The Agashya family is often found in various locations within the park, making each trek to see them a unique experience. The family’s interactions are lively and energetic, with Agashya ensuring that the group stays together and explores new areas. The family includes several females and juveniles, each contributing to the group’s dynamics.

Visitors to the Agashya family can expect to see a range of behaviors, from grooming and feeding to playful interactions among the younger members. Agashya’s leadership and the family’s dynamic nature make them a fascinating group to observe. The Agashya family’s adventurous spirit offers a unique and exciting experience for trekkers.

Kwitonda Gorilla Trekking Family

The Kwitonda family, led by the silverback Akarevuro, is known for its humble and gentle nature. The name Kwitonda means “humble one” in Kinyarwanda, reflecting the family’s peaceful and cooperative dynamics. Akarevuro’s leadership is characterized by his calm and protective demeanor, ensuring the family’s safety and cohesion.

The Kwitonda family is often found in the mid-latitudes of the park, providing a moderate trek for visitors. The family’s interactions are characterized by their peaceful and cooperative nature, with Akarevuro ensuring that conflicts are minimal. The family includes several females and juveniles, each contributing to the group’s dynamics.

Visitors to the Kwitonda family can expect to see a range of behaviours, from grooming and feeding to playful interactions among the younger members. Akarevuro’s leadership and the family’s humble nature make them a fascinating group to observe. The Kwitonda family’s serene environment offers a unique and calming experience for trekkers.

Umubano Gorilla Trekking Family

The Umubano family, led by the silverback Charles, is a splinter group that originally broke away from the Amahoro family. The name is Umubano means “neighbourliness” in Kinyarwanda, reflecting the family’s cooperative and friendly dynamics. Charles’ leadership is characterized by his calm and protective demeanour, ensuring the family’s safety and cohesion.

The Umubano family is often found in the mid-latitudes of the park, providing a moderate trek for visitors. The family’s interactions are characterized by their peaceful and cooperative nature, with Charles ensuring that conflicts are minimal. The family includes several females and juveniles, each contributing to the group’s dynamics.

Visitors to the Umubano family can expect to see a range of behaviours, from grooming and feeding to playful interactions among the younger members. Charles’ leadership and the family’s cooperative nature make them a fascinating group to observe. The Umubano family’s serene environment offers a unique and calming experience for trekkers.

Hirwa Gorilla Trekking Family

The Hirwa family, led by the silverback Munyinya, is known for its high birth rate and dynamic nature. The name Hirwa means “lucky one” in Kinyarwanda, reflecting the family’s fortunate and thriving dynamics. Munyinya’s leadership is characterized by his adventurous spirit and ability to adapt to new environments.

The Hirwa family is often found in various locations within the park, making each trek to see them a unique experience. The family’s interactions are lively and energetic, with Munyinya ensuring that the group stays together and explores new areas. The family includes several females and juveniles, each contributing to the group’s dynamics.

Visitors to the Hirwa family can expect to see a range of behaviours, from grooming and feeding to playful interactions among the younger members. Munyinya’s leadership and the family’s dynamic nature make them a fascinating group to observe

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an all-year-round activity, but the best time to visit is during the drier seasons, from December to early March and June to September. The long dry season, from December to March, sees temperatures reaching up to 29°C on some days. In contrast, the months from March to mid-May and July to September are considered the rainy seasons.

Rwanda generally enjoys good weather throughout the year, but the dry season is particularly favourable for wildlife viewing. This period is ideal for gorilla tours as there is a minimal chance of rain, making the hiking terrain in the rainforest more manageable. However, it’s still advisable to bring waterproof clothing, as the Equatorial climate can be unpredictable. The dry season is also the peak tourist season, so prices for accommodation and car hire may be higher.

Conversely, budget travelers might prefer to visit during the wet season. During this time, hotels often have lower occupancy rates and offer discounts on food and lodging. Additionally, there is less competition for gorilla permits, ensuring a more relaxed experience with these magnificent creatures.

A Rwanda gorilla permit grants you the incredible opportunity to visit the endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Priced at $1,500 per person per trek for foreign non-residents, $500 for foreign residents and $200 for East African Citizens, this permit allows you to spend one unforgettable hour with these majestic creatures.

Typically, gorilla permits are secured through local tour agents who handle the booking process and finalize the purchase as your trekking date approaches. Given the high demand and stringent conservation efforts in Rwanda, which limit the number of daily permits, it is advisable to book your permit at least six months in advance.

Volcanoes National Park offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every traveller’s needs, from luxurious lodges to midrange and budget-friendly facilities. Whether you’re seeking opulence or a more economical stay, you’ll find something that fits your preferences. Here are some of the notable hotels and lodges in the area. Read more on our best Rwanda Honeymoon Resorts.

Packing for a gorilla trekking safari to Uganda requires some careful planning. Here are some essentials to bring:

• Pack some warm clothes like sweaters for when the weather drastically changes.
• A raincoat is necessary whether you are travelling in the dry or wet season.
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers protect your skin from insect bites, keep you warm, and protect your skin from tree scratches. The clothes packed should be neutral or in brown, khaki, and green colours. Avoid blue, any other brightly coloured clothes, and black. Also, make sure to avoid jeans.
• First aid kit fully packed with all the medicines prescribed by your doctor, bandages, spirit, iodine, cotton, tummy ache medicines, pain killers, and other things needed to treat scratches during the trek.
• Gaiters, socks, and garden gloves are needed. The socks are used to keep you warm, and during the trek, trousers are tucked into the socks to prevent insects from crawling up your pants. The garden gloves and non-surgical gloves protect your hands from tree scratches during the trek, and the adjustable gaiters are mainly used during the wet season.
• Strong ankle-length boots are necessary to keep your feet steady on the trek, especially during the wet season. They should be well-fitting to avoid blisters and waterproof if you can get them.

Other items that you need to pack include a refillable water bottle, flashlight, extra batteries, camera and extra lenses, binoculars, wet wipes, biodegradable toilet paper, scarf, sandals, sunscreen, insect repellent, a sun hat, and toiletries, among others.

A significant portion of the revenue generated from tourism in this park 20% is allocated to the local communities surrounding the park. The remaining funds are dedicated to maintaining and improving the infrastructure within and around the national park.

For detailed information on gorilla permits in Rwanda, how to book a gorilla trekking permit for Volcanoes National Park, guidelines for Rwanda gorilla safaris, and the recommended dress code for a gorilla tracking trip, please contact our team Today.