Munyaga is a unique family with a fascinating story, dwelling within the Bukima sector of Virunga National Park. The Munyaga family came into existence in 1998 following a coup on the Buhanga group by silverback Munyaga.
Silverback Munyaga lived a solitary life in the jungles of Virunga National Park before interacting with the Buhanga gorilla family in February 1998. Buhanga was then headed by an adult female, Nsekuye, which prompted Silverback Munyaga to take advantage and impose himself on the group to become the dominant silverback.
In 1998, the group was taken over by Silverback Munyaga and its name was changed to the Munyaga gorilla family. The group lived a hostile life, attacking and fighting with other families until it interacted with the Kabirizi family, who took all its adult females.
Following this incident, Silverback Munyaga was disappointed and later abandoned the group from 2007 to 2008. During this time, the young Mawazo used the opportunity to take over leadership as the dominant silverback of the Munyaga family.
Silverback Mawazo was later overpowered by Gisore, who is the current dominant silverback of the Munyaga family. This group is famous for the bold-headed silverback, Kadogo, as well as mother Bilali, who came from the Rugendo family in 2004 and produced twins, who unfortunately died in infancy.
The family is home to nine members, including three silverbacks, two adult females, two babies, and two juveniles. Tracking the Munyaga group is regarded as the most fascinating gorilla experience in Virunga National Park, as it is a calm, peaceful, and one of the safest treks in the park.
Trekking the Munyaga family costs $400 per permit per person, just like any other gorilla group in Virunga National Park. Booking gorilla permits for the Munyaga family can be done directly through Virunga National Park or through a trusted tour operator.
