Umubano group is found in Volcanoes National Park in the northwestern province of Rwanda. The word Umubano is from the native Kinyarwanda language, meaning “living together,” which truly depicts the togetherness and harmonious living between Umubano and Amahoro groups that continue to meet and live together in peace even after several years of separation.
Under the leadership of Charles, the Umubano family split from the Amahoro group after disagreements between the brothers – Charles and his elder brother Ubumwe following the death of their father.
In a battle-less split, Charles formed his own family with a few members that he managed to take along, plus the two female gorillas which his elder brother Ubumwe gave him. The two brothers separated in peace, but shortly after, they could still be seen feeding together, interacting, and staying together for one or two days.
Due to Charles’ energetic and ambitious nature, he has managed to keep the family intact and gained more members to expand his family in such a short period. Currently, the Umubano family is made up of 13 members, including five silverbacks, two adult females, two blackbacks, one sub-adult male, one juvenile, and two infants.
Located in the heart of the famous Virunga conservation area, Volcanoes National Park boasts a huge number of endangered mountain gorillas, as well as being one of the few places in the world where you can track these magical apes. Others include Mgahinga and Virunga National Parks, all located within the Virunga region, and the famous Bwindi Impenetrable National Park located in southwestern Uganda.
Volcanoes National Park is home to up to 12 habituated gorilla families, all of which can be tracked throughout the year; but the most recommended times are the dry months from June to October and December to February.
Permits to trek the Umubano gorilla family cost $1,500 per trek, and like other groups, permits must be booked in advance, usually three months or even earlier, especially during peak season when permits are in high demand. Permits can be obtained from Volcanoes National Park headquarters, directly from the Rwanda Development Board, or booked through a trusted tour agency.
