Susa Group (Susa A Family) – Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is home to several habituated gorilla families that visitors can trek, but none is as famous as the Susa Group, also known as the Susa A Family. This group has a legendary history tied to the pioneering research of Dian Fossey, whose conservation efforts brought the plight of mountain gorillas to the world’s attention. Today, trekking the Susa Group offers one of the most rewarding and challenging gorilla encounters in Rwanda.
The History of the Susa Group
The Susa Group was one of the first gorilla families studied by Dian Fossey during her time in the Virunga Mountains. Named after the nearby Susa River, the group became central to her groundbreaking research that highlighted the intelligence, social structure, and vulnerability of mountain gorillas. Over the years, the family grew to become one of the largest gorilla groups in Volcanoes National Park, at one point numbering over 40 members.
Current Size and Composition
Today, the Susa Group is smaller due to natural splits, with around 28–30 members, including dominant silverbacks, females, juveniles, and playful infants. Visitors often find the group highly entertaining, especially watching the youngsters tumble and climb while the powerful silverbacks maintain order. The group is also known for its rare set of surviving twins, a phenomenon that adds to its unique reputation among gorilla families.
Trekking the Susa Group
Tracking the Susa Group is one of the most adventurous treks in Volcanoes National Park. The group usually inhabits the higher slopes of Mount Karisimbi, Rwanda’s highest volcano, making the trek more physically demanding than those to other families. Hikes can last between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the gorillas’ movements. The reward, however, is extraordinary—encounters with one of the most iconic gorilla groups in history, set against the stunning backdrop of the Virunga Mountains.
The Susa Group Experience
Spending an hour with the Susa Family is unforgettable. Visitors observe the gorillas’ strong social bonds, from the nurturing care of mothers to the authority of the dominant silverback. The playful energy of the young ones is often the highlight, as they swing through trees and interact with visitors under the watchful eyes of adults. The experience is not just about observing wildlife—it is about connecting with a family whose story represents resilience and conservation success.
Conservation and Tourism Impact
The Susa Group’s fame has contributed greatly to Rwanda’s conservation and tourism efforts. Gorilla trekking permits, priced at USD 1,500 per person, provide vital revenue for the protection of these endangered primates and the development of surrounding communities. By trekking the Susa Group, visitors become part of this conservation success story, helping ensure that gorillas thrive in their natural habitat.
Final Thoughts
The Susa Group, or Susa A Family, embodies the spirit of Rwanda’s gorilla conservation legacy. Trekking to see them is challenging but deeply rewarding, offering a chance to witness the descendants of the gorillas once studied by Dian Fossey. For travelers seeking both adventure and meaning, meeting the Susa Family in Volcanoes National Park is an experience that combines history, conservation, and the awe of standing face-to-face with the gentle giants of the forest.