Gorillas are one of the largest primates known to exist. They are the closest relatives of humans, sharing about 95-99% of their DNA with humans, after chimpanzees and bonobos.
Gorillas live in groups called families, and each family is led by a silverback who is responsible for leading and protecting the group. The name “silverback” comes from the silver-colored hair that grows on the back of adult male gorillas.
These animals are very rare and are found in the tropical forests of Uganda in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is blessed with over 11 gorilla families. One of the families found in this park is the Bwenge gorilla group.
The word “Bwenge” is a local Kinyarwanda word that means “wisdom.” Therefore, the Bwenge group is considered one of the wisest groups found in Volcanoes National Park. The group was founded in 2007 by Silverback Bwenge, who broke away from the Titus Gorilla Family.
The group is made up of 11 members and lives on the foothills of Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi. It is one of the most popular gorilla groups because some of its members appeared in the 1988 film “Gorillas in the Mist,” which was based on the work of the late Dian Fossey.
Bwenge, the dominant silverback, was joined by female gorillas from other families, leading to the group’s growth. The group recorded over 20 births but also faced many challenges, especially after losing 6 infants during crossfires, which reduced its number.
Sadly, Silverback Bwenge was later found dead by gorilla doctors during their patrols in the park. It is believed he may have died from injuries after fighting with another silverback, although some sources suggest he could have died from heart and lung problems.
Bwenge was known for his parental love, especially when he cared for two young gorillas whose mothers had been killed. After his death, a mature female gorilla called Maggie took control of the group.
Gorilla trekking is one of the most exciting activities that travelers in Rwanda should not miss, especially in Volcanoes National Park. Trekking is usually done in the morning or evening when gorillas are most active in searching for food. In Rwanda, a gorilla permit costs 1500 US dollars per person.
Only 8 people are allowed to trek a single gorilla group per day, accompanied by a ranger guide who leads the group and provides information about the trek. The trekking experience normally takes between 1 and 8 hours, depending on the movement of the gorillas.
Bwenge Gorilla Family is not the only group in Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to more than 11 gorilla groups, including Agashya Group, Susa A Group, Susa B Group, Amahoro Group, Karisimbi Group, and many more. Each group has its own unique story and character.
Volcanoes National Park is also known for its birdlife, with over 200 bird species, including 10 species that are found only in this area. Some of the most sought-after birds are the Rwenzori Turaco and the beautiful francolins.
Besides gorilla trekking, there are many other activities you can enjoy in Rwanda. You can visit Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, Lake Kivu, Iby’iwacu Cultural Center, Inema Art Center, Akagera National Park to see the Big Five animals, and Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee trekking. You can also visit market places like Kimironko Market or hike the Virunga Volcanoes.
Prepare now and visit this land of a thousand hills for one of the best safari experiences, where you will meet different wildlife species, including the rare mountain gorillas — the most sought-after primates in the world.
