“Gorillas in the Mist” Sites to Visit in Volcanoes NP
“Gorillas in the Mist,” both the book by Dian Fossey and the subsequent 1988 film starring Sigourney Weaver, brought global attention to the plight of mountain gorillas and the dedicated efforts to save them. The story is intrinsically linked to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, where Dian Fossey conducted her groundbreaking research.
While the film “Gorillas in the Mist” itself was partially filmed in Kenya due to security concerns in Rwanda during the 1980s, the narrative and the actual locations of Dian Fossey’s life and work are entirely within Volcanoes National Park.
The primary and most significant site to visit in Volcanoes National Park related to Dian Fossey and “Gorillas in the Mist” is the Dian Fossey Gravesite and Karisoke Research Center hike.
The Dian Fossey Gravesite and Former Karisoke Research Center Hike:
- Location: The hike takes place on the slopes of Mount Bisoke within Volcanoes National Park.
- The Trek: It’s a challenging but rewarding hike that typically takes 3-4 hours round trip (depending on weather and fitness levels). The trail can be steep and muddy, passing through dense bamboo forests and montane vegetation.
- What You Will See:
- The Remains of the Karisoke Research Center: This is the actual site where Dian Fossey established her research base in 1967. While the original cabins were destroyed during periods of civil unrest in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the foundations and some remnants serve as a poignant reminder of her work.
- Dian Fossey’s Grave: Located next to the graves of her beloved gorillas, including Digit, her favorite silverback, who was famously poached. Her grave is a solemn memorial to her dedication and sacrifice.
- Gorilla Graves: Visitors will see numerous graves of gorillas that Fossey studied and mourned, emphasizing the constant threat they faced from poaching.
- Stunning Scenery: The hike itself offers beautiful views of the Virunga volcanoes and the surrounding forest, providing a sense of the rugged terrain where Fossey lived and worked.
- Wildlife Sightings: While the main goal is historical, you might encounter other forest inhabitants like golden monkeys, various bird species, and forest hogs along the trail.
- Significance for Visitors:
- Historical Connection: It’s a direct connection to the legacy of Dian Fossey and her pioneering conservation work.
- Understanding Gorilla Conservation: The visit provides a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs of mountain gorilla conservation and the personal sacrifices made.
- Emotional Impact: For many, visiting the gravesite is an emotional and moving experience, highlighting the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures.
How to Visit:
- Permit: A permit ($75 USD as of my last update) is required for the Dian Fossey hike, purchased through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
- Guide: A professional guide accompanies each group, providing insights into Fossey’s work, the gorillas, and the local ecosystem.
- Preparation: Wear appropriate hiking gear (sturdy boots, rain jacket, gloves), carry water and snacks, and consider hiring a porter to assist with your daypack.
The Dian Fossey Gravesite remains a powerful pilgrimage for conservationists, researchers, and tourists inspired by her unwavering commitment to saving mountain gorillas. It serves as a tangible link to the “Gorillas in the Mist” narrative and the ongoing success story of gorilla conservation in Rwanda.