Titus gorilla family in Rwanda

What’s so special about Titus’ gorilla family in Rwanda?

Speaking of the oldest habituated gorilla family in Rwanda, the Titus gorilla family is one of them, located in the Volcanoes National Park. The family name originated from the dominant silverback, Titus, who lived sometime during the time of Dian Fossey, the primatologist at the Karisoke Research Centre in the Virunga Conservation Area. The Titus family was killed by unknown poachers, and it had to forcefully join another family that had its own leader. After a while, the leader chased all the male gorillas. Fortunately, Titus was left in the group.  Later, this family was taken over by Titus, who became the founder of the Titus gorilla family after the death of Beestme (the family’s leader by then). Kuryama, Titus Silverback’s son, took over the family till to date. Titus was found dead in his nest, and doctors confirmed that he had died of natural death. The great, interesting history of the Titus gorilla family attracts many visitors to Volcanoes National Park.

Trekking Titus Gorilla Family

Trekking with this interesting gorilla family is thrilling, especially when you travel with the best tour operator. The important requirement is the gorilla permit purchased from the Rwanda Development Board.  Each trekker is allowed to trek once with their gorilla permit in Rwanda, and it costs $ 1,500 per traveler. It’s always better to book a gorilla permit 6 months before the trek date to avoid last-minute inconveniences.

Does the season of trekking Titus Gorilla Family matter?
Yes, the season matters because during dry seasons, movement through the thick forest is easier than when it rains, when the soil seems softer. The best months for trekking are June, July, August, September, October, December, and January to February, when the great family, the Titus gorilla family, is active. Note that during this period, the number of travelers is really high; therefore, book earlier for a gorilla permit.

How much is a gorilla permit to trek the Titus gorilla family?

A valid gorilla permit is required to visit the Titus gorilla family. Each Rwanda gorilla permit costs $ 1,500 and can be purchased directly from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or a registered tour operator. Due to the high demand to trek Titus family, it’s recommended to do booking at least 5 months in advance due to the high demand for gorilla permits. Among the essentials in your portable backup, a gorilla permit should come first, and always endeavor to cross-check it during the morning briefing at the headquarters. Immediately after the briefing, all travelers are requested to present the gorilla trekking permit.

What if I miss Titus’ gorilla family?

Some of our travelers fear spending their payments for a permit to trek with their family, and in the end, they don’t see it. But you don’t have to worry about it, because if the family has moved far, you are given another chance to trek the next day without paying again. However, they are other reasons that might fail you see them (failing to hike) note that no refund and no chance given to you to trek again. Travelers are advised to be physically fit for this activity.

What to pack for trekking the Titus gorilla family in Rwanda?

Trekking with this family is like any other gorilla safari; therefore, the requirements are essentially the same. The right dressing code and a well-packed backpack imply a comfortable, memorable trek experience and make it more interesting. Among the essentials are;
1. Hiking rubber boots for easy movement through the jungle.
2. Gardening gloves to protect your hands
3. Sunglasses for your eyes in case of too much brightness from the sun’s rays
4. Long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect your body from scratches
5. Rain jackets for the unpredictable forest weather, and also a scarf
7. Bottled drinking water due to too much hiking, which drains your body.
8. Snacks in case you have taken time off to rest

Rwanda does not only have the Titus gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park, but a number of them. Depending on your budget, you may decide to trek another gorilla family on another day of the tour. other groups include;

1. Amahoro Gorilla Family. It’s a peaceful family and aims to be a witness on your day of the tour. The Amahoro family resides on the Bisoke slopes; however, during the day, they move up the mountain, making it hard to trek.
2. Agashya gorilla group
3. Umubano Gorilla family
4. Kwitonda gorilla group
5. Sabyinyo gorilla family
6. Amahoro gorilla family
7. Susa A gorilla Family
8. Karisimbi Gorilla Group
9. Hirwa Gorilla Family is currently living in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda.

Dos and don’ts of while trekking Titus family in Rwanda

Your safety is our priority, and we also aim to protect our species so that future generations can see these loving creatures. Therefore, rules and regulations are to be followed, which may include;
• Do not trek when not feeling right
• Avoid direct eye contact with gorillas
• Keep a distance of seven meters from gorillas
• Do not use flashlight cameras
• Keep your voices low
• Do not litter in the park