Agashya Gorilla Family – The Agashya Gorilla Family, also known as Group 13, lives in the Volcanoes National Park. Group 13 got its name from the initial 13 members who started the group at the time of their habituation.
It was initially led by a dominant silverback named Nyakairima before Agashya took over, thus the name changed to “Agashya,” which means “News” in Kinyarwanda.
However, Group 13 remains its alternative name.
The Agashya family comprises about 25 members, including a single silverback, 12 females, 7 babies, and 3 juveniles, enjoying the vegetation of the park, making it easy to identify them by number.
Agashya has a very protective personality and sometimes takes the group up the slopes when he feels insecure or threatened by gorilla trekkers.
Occasionally, the group stays close to the Sabyinyo Gorilla group, with both groups being inhabitants of Mount Sabyinyo.
Limitations
Children below the age of 15 years cannot be given gorilla trekking permits.
Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits
The permits cost 1500 USD per person for a single trek.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking
The best time for trekking is any time of the year, although the dry seasons, from June to September and December to January, are preferable.
Requirements for Trekking
- Boots
- Cameras
- Umbrella
- Hats or caps
- Long-sleeved or light clothes
- Tour guide charts
Other Activities Involved
- Golden monkey trekking
- Volcano hiking
- Birding
In conclusion, the Agashya Gorilla family adds to the diversity of gorilla types, making gorilla trekking in the Volcanoes National Park more interesting.
