The Agashya gorilla family, also known as Group 13, originally had 13 members at the time of habituation. The group has since grown to 25 members, including 3 blackbacks, 12 females, 7 infants, 3 juveniles, and 1 silverback. The word “Agashya” means “special” in the local language. Book a Rwanda trek to see how an Agashya visit fits into your safari.
Nyakairima was the dominant silverback before being overthrown by an ambitious silverback, Agashya, who took over leadership of the group. Agashya moved the family to higher mountain ranges to avoid disruptions from other silverbacks. He is also known for taking members from other gorilla families to expand his own group.
Where the Agashya Family Lives
The name “Agashya” comes from a local Kinyarwanda word meaning “News.” The Agashya gorilla family, along with the Sabyinyo gorilla family, lives on the slopes of Mount Sabyinyo, one of the Virunga range volcanoes.
The number of gorillas in a family can change over time, due to deaths, new births, or members moving to other groups.
Sometimes, a silverback will form his own family by taking members from an existing group, as Agashya himself did.
Trekking the Agashya Gorilla Family
If you’re concerned about safety and stability within the group, the Agashya gorilla family is a good option to trek while on a gorilla safari in Rwanda, given how actively its silverback protects and manages the family.
That said, trekking can sometimes be more demanding when Agashya moves the group to higher elevations.
Gorilla Permits
Rwanda gorilla permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board and grant access to mountain gorillas. Permits cost $1,500 per person and are only available to people aged 15 and above. People with communicable illnesses, such as the flu, are not allowed to trek gorillas.
What to Carry
Gorilla trekking requires physical fitness and can take 2 to 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. Pack waterproof hiking boots, garden gloves, insect repellent, plenty of drinking water, energy snacks, warm long-sleeved clothes, and a raincoat.
Best Time to Visit
Volcanoes National Park can be visited all year round, but some months are better than others. The best time to visit is from June to September and December to February, when the weather is more favorable and trekking trails are in better condition. During the wet season, trekking can be more difficult, as trails become muddy and slippery.
