Hirwa Gorilla Family – The Hirwa Gorilla Family is found in Volcanoes National Park. It is one of the groups that live around the Virunga Conservation Area.
Specifically, the Hirwa gorilla family inhabits Mount Sabyinyo, an extinct volcano among the Virunga ranges. The word “Hirwa” means “lucky one” in native Kinyarwanda.
Hirwa is considered one of the lucky groups because of the births that resulted in twins.
The Hirwa family has the second-ever surviving set of twins, Isanga Gakuru and Isango Gata, born to Kabatwa.
The Hirwa Gorilla Family is led by a silverback known as Uburanga, who succeeded Munyinya, the first group leader, after Munyinya was struck by lightning in 2020.
As of 2024, the Hirwa family consists of 17 members, including 1 silverback, 7 adult females, 2 blackbacks, 1 sub-adult female, 2 sub-adult males, and 4 infants.
This group grew significantly in size under its former leader Munyinya, who took members from other families like Kwitonda, Agashya, and Sabyinyo.
Limitations
- Visitors who are sick are not allowed to trek because the gorillas can easily catch diseases like the flu.
- Children below the age of 15 are not allowed to trek.
Other Activities
- Community walks
- Hiking
- Nature walks
- Biking
Requirements
- Hiking boots
- Hiking gloves
- Waterproof jacket
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Hiking pants
Best Time to Go Trekking
The best months to go trekking are from June to September and December to February.
Price for Gorilla Trekking
The gorilla permit costs USD 1500.
In conclusion, the Hirwa group is well known for its status and respect from other groups. You will undoubtedly fall in love while trekking with them.
