The Kwitonda gorilla family gets its name from the silverback Kwitonda, whose name means “Humble One.” Book a Rwanda trek to see how a Kwitonda visit fits into your safari.
This group migrated from the Democratic Republic of Congo and has never shown any signs of returning.
Kwitonda was known as one of the most humble silverbacks. It is said that he migrated with his family from Virunga National Park to find peace in Volcanoes National Park.
Kwitonda went missing from his group for several days and was later found dead in September 2012, at the age of 40.
Kwitonda’s Unusual Leadership Style
Silverbacks leading gorilla groups usually don’t allow other silverbacks within the group to mate with the females. However, this was not the case with Kwitonda.
He allowed other silverbacks in the group to mate with the females, which helped create a strong bond among the family members.
After Kwitonda’s death, Akarevuro took over as the leader of the group. The Kwitonda gorilla family is one of the harder groups to trek, as they often move into thick forest.
The Kwitonda family became well known in Volcanoes National Park because of Kwitonda’s gentle behavior toward other gorillas and humans. The group grew to have 28 members under his leadership.
Trekking the Kwitonda Gorilla Family
The Kwitonda family can be trekked on the slopes of Mount Muhabura, in Volcanoes National Park’s Northern Province. Because the family tends to move into dense forest cover, trekkers should be prepared for a more physically demanding hike compared to some of the park’s other gorilla families.
Once the group is located, visitors are given an hour to observe the gorillas and take photographs, under the close guidance of park rangers who monitor the family’s movements daily.
Gorilla Trekking Permits and Practical Information
Gorilla permits in Rwanda cost $1,500 per person per trek. Only individuals aged 15 and above who are in good health are permitted to trek mountain gorillas.
Given the high demand for permits, especially during peak season, it’s advisable to book at least 3 to 6 months in advance through a trusted tour operator or the Rwanda Development Board.
Trekkers should come prepared with waterproof hiking boots, warm long-sleeved clothing, garden gloves, a raincoat, plenty of drinking water, and energy snacks, since weather in the park can change quickly.
Best Time to Visit
Volcanoes National Park can be visited throughout the year, but the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, offer the best trekking conditions, with drier trails and easier access to the higher slopes where the Kwitonda family often roams. See our full best time to visit Rwanda guide for more detail.
