The Amahoro gorilla family is composed of 17 members, including 1 silverback, 5 adult females, 2 sub-adult males, 2 blackbacks, 2 juveniles, and 5 babies. The name “Amahoro” comes from the Kinyarwanda word meaning “peace.” Book a Rwanda trek to see how an Amahoro visit fits into your safari.
The group’s name reflects the calm nature of its dominant silverback, Ubumwe. However, his peaceful temperament has led to losing some group members to Charles, the silverback of the Umubano gorilla family. The name “Ubumwe” means “togetherness” in the local language.
Trekking the Amahoro Gorilla Family
The Amahoro gorilla family can be trekked on the slopes of Mount Bisoke. Many travelers enjoy visiting this family because of their peaceful behavior toward humans and other mountain gorillas.
Amahoro is just one of the habituated gorilla families in the park, alongside several other families available for trekking.
It’s worth noting that the number of mountain gorillas in a family can change over time, due to deaths, births, or transfers to other groups.
If you consider yourself a calm and easygoing person, the Amahoro gorilla family can be a fitting group to trek in Volcanoes National Park.
That said, group allocation often depends more on age and physical fitness than personal temperament. Older visitors are usually assigned to the nearest gorilla families, while younger and more energetic travelers are sent to families living at higher elevations.
Gorilla Trekking Permits
Rwanda offers a premium gorilla trekking experience, with permits costing $1,500 per person per trek. Gorilla permits can be obtained from the Rwanda Development Board or through a trusted travel company. Permits are often limited, especially during peak season.
Best Time to Visit
Rwanda is a year round destination, though some months are better suited to trekking than others. The best time to visit is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, when trekking trails are in better condition and the weather is more favorable. See our full best time to visit Rwanda guide for more detail.
What to Bring
Mountain gorillas live at high elevations in rainforests, which require hiking and a reasonable level of physical fitness. Come prepared with waterproof hiking boots, garden gloves, plenty of drinking water, energy snacks, insect repellent, and other essentials.
Where to Sleep
There are various accommodation options in Volcanoes National Park, ranging from budget to mid-range and luxury lodges. Where you choose to stay will depend largely on your budget.
