Kwitonda Gorilla Family – This family is found between Mount Sabyinyo and Mount Gahinga. It is one of the most popular families to visit due to their friendly gestures towards fellow gorillas and humans.
Most interestingly, Kwitonda’s relaxed behavior attracted more tourists.
The Kwitonda gorilla family was founded by a dominant silverback in this group that crossed from the DRC to Rwanda in 2003, probably due to pressure from other gorilla families in the area.
The group was named Kwitonda after him. It consists of over 28 individuals with a strong bond and sense of belonging due to Kwitonda’s great leadership.
Unlike most dominant silverbacks, Kwitonda allowed other male gorillas to mate with the females, which helped keep the group intact even after his natural death at 40.
Currently, Akarevuro took over leadership from Kwitonda, facing a challenge from two other potential silverbacks in the group, Kigoma and Magumu, who submitted to his leadership.
Costs of Gorilla Trekking
Ranges between 1,500 to 1,700 USD per person per trek
Child Policy:
Children below the age of 15 years are not allowed to trek.
Accommodation:
- Bisate Lodge
- One and Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge
- Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
- And others
Other Activities:
- Mountain hiking
- Golden monkey trekking
- Nature walks
- Cultural tours
- Birding
- Visit to Dian Fossey’s grave
Requirements:
- Hiking gear
- Insect repellents
- Cameras
- Caps/hats
- Walking sticks
- Boots
Best Time to Visit
All year round is good, but the best time is during the dry season in the months of June to August and December to February.
By and large, the Kwitonda gorilla family is friendly and hence good for tourists to visit.
