Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund , The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, opened in 2022, is situated near Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, the heartland of mountain gorillas. This state-of-the-art facility represents the culmination of a 20-year vision to honor Dian Fossey’s legacy and advance conservation efforts to protect gorillas from extinction.

The campus welcomes visitors daily and offers a range of activities. Explore cutting-edge exhibits detailing over 55 years of gorilla conservation, visit the gift shop featuring local crafts, enjoy a meal or coffee at the Gorilla Café, and stroll through lush nature trails. Meet the dedicated Fossey Fund staff and learn about their ongoing conservation work.

Dian Fossey’s pioneering work to study and protect wild gorillas in Rwanda has left an enduring impact on conservation efforts worldwide. Her unwavering dedication, courage, and passion for these endangered animals have inspired countless conservationists who have followed in her footsteps. Fossey’s legacy continues to thrive through the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, which carries on her mission of gorilla protection, scientific research, education, and community engagement. The Fund’s programs are committed to ensuring the survival of mountain gorillas while also uplifting the communities surrounding their habitats.

Fossey’s work not only deepened our understanding of gorillas but also highlighted the importance of conservation efforts in preserving the delicate balance of our natural world. Today, her influence remains strong, serving as a beacon of hope and action for those dedicated to protecting the world’s most vulnerable species.

Who is Dr. Dian Fossey

What to Expect When You Visit Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

• Exhibits and Attractions: Discover the history of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and view magnificent mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Highlights include a replica of Dian Fossey’s forest cabin, original artifacts, a 360-degree theater with stunning gorilla footage, and a virtual reality experience.

• Self-Guided Tours: No pre-booking is needed. A suggested donation of $20 per adult for non-Rwandan visitors supports the Fossey Fund’s work. Donations can be made online or upon entry.

• Behind-the-Scenes VIP Tours: Experience a private, 1.5-hour tour led by a senior Fossey Fund staff member. This exclusive tour includes a detailed look at exhibits, real-time research on gorilla physiology, and behind-the-scenes access. Available on weekdays with pre-booking required at least 24 hours in advance. The cost is $800 per group, with a maximum of 20 guests. Tours start at 9 a.m. and the last tour begins at 3 p.m. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

• Silverback Sundowner: Enjoy an enchanting evening event surrounded by the beauty of Volcanoes National Park. Witness breathtaking sunset views and engage with conservation experts. Light refreshments are provided. Silverback Sundowners are available on weekdays with pre-booking required at least 24 hours in advance. Scheduled from 4-5 p.m. or 5-6 p.m., the cost is $100 per person with a minimum fee of $500. The maximum group size is 30 guests. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

How far is Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund from Kigali

The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is situated in the Kinigi region, just outside Volcanoes National Park, about a two-hour drive from Kigali. This location is at the heart of Rwanda’s gorilla habitat, the country’s premier tourist attraction. Most visitors to Rwanda come primarily for the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking. The campus plays a crucial role in supporting gorilla conservation efforts and serves as a gateway for tourists eager to learn about and engage with the incredible work of protecting these endangered animals. Its proximity to Volcanoes National Park allows easy access for visitors, making it an essential stop for those exploring Rwanda’s natural wonders.

Combining Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund with Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Combining a visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund with a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda offers a deeply enriching adventure. Start your journey at the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, located near Volcanoes National Park. Here, you’ll gain insight into over five decades of gorilla conservation work, exploring state-of-the-art exhibits, learning about Fossey’s legacy, and engaging with ongoing research efforts aimed at protecting these magnificent creatures.

Get on our 3 days Dian Fossey visit combined with Gorilla Trekking safaris and enjoy the enriching culture and gorilla adventure.

Our 3-Day Gorilla Trekking and Dian Fossey Hike tour in Rwanda offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Volcanoes National Park. This park, Rwanda’s most visited, is home to the second-largest population of mountain gorillas in the world and was the base for the renowned primatologist Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to studying and protecting these magnificent creatures.

The park boasts 10 habituated gorilla groups available for trekking year-round. Dian Fossey’s pioneering work revealed critical insights into gorilla behavior, including the importance of gaining the dominant silverback’s trust to be accepted by the group. Through her efforts, she not only advanced research but also made significant strides in gorilla conservation, particularly in combating poaching and trafficking.

Combining Rwanda Safari with Uganda Gorilla Trekking

Combining safaris in Uganda and Rwanda has become a popular trend, allowing travelers to explore diverse safari activities across two countries. Mountain gorillas, an endangered species, can only be tracked in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, making these destinations unique for wildlife enthusiasts. Rwanda offers exceptional wildlife viewing, with the government prioritizing tourism and ensuring top-notch safety.

When planning a combined safari, several factors will influence the cost: transport, accommodation, meals, and the timing of your visit. Road transport between Uganda and Rwanda is a more affordable option, while air travel offers convenience. Accommodation ranges from luxury to budget options, affecting the overall expense. Additionally, the season you choose to travel impacts costs, with peak seasons being more expensive than the off-season. Careful consideration of these elements will help you plan a memorable and budget-friendly combined safari in Uganda and Rwanda.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a premier safari activity, offering unforgettable experiences in two key destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both located in southwestern Uganda. Together, these parks host 20 habituated gorilla families, with one family in Mgahinga and the remaining in Bwindi.

To embark on a gorilla trek, you must secure a permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority or through a reputable local tour operator. Permits should be booked in advance, costing $800 for foreign non-residents, 300,000 UGX for East African citizens, and $700 for foreign residents. Your tour operator can handle the logistics once you provide your details and payment.

For an extended experience, the gorilla habituation process in Bwindi’s Rushaga sector allows you to spend four hours with the gorillas for a $1,500 permit.

There are important rules to follow: trekkers must be at least 15 years old, maintain a 7-meter distance from the gorillas, and keep noise to a minimum. Groups are limited to eight people per session. Flash photography, eating, smoking, and trekking while sick are prohibited to ensure the safety and well-being of both visitors and gorillas.

Wildlife Safaris in Rwanda

Rwanda offers exceptional wildlife safari destinations, with Akagera National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, and Volcanoes National Park as key highlights.

Akagera National Park is the largest and best destination for a classic wildlife safari in Rwanda. After the Rwandan genocide, efforts were made to restore the park’s wildlife, reintroducing species like lions, rhinos, and more. Activities include game drives, where you can spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, and more, including nocturnal species. Bird watching is popular, with over 400 species like the African Fish Eagle and Senegal lapwing. Boat cruises on Lakes Shakani and Ihema offer a unique way to view wildlife like elephants and crocodiles. Cultural experiences, such as visiting the Humure refugee village, and sport fishing on the lakes add depth to your visit.

Nyungwe Forest National Park is rich in biodiversity, hosting 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and baboons. Chimpanzee trekking is the main attraction, with habituated groups in both Nyungwe and Cyamudongo. The park also boasts East Africa’s highest canopy walk, offering stunning views of the forest and wildlife. Primate trekking for species like L’Hoest monkeys and bird watching, with over 310 species, are also popular activities.

Volcanoes National Park is famed for gorilla trekking, home to over 450 mountain gorillas. The park offers 15 habituated gorilla families for trekking, with permits required in advance. Besides gorilla tracking, visitors can trek golden monkeys, another endangered species, and explore the cultural Iby’iwacu Village (Gorilla Guardians Village), where they can engage with local traditions and enjoy performances by reformed poachers.

Planning for Uganda Rwanda Gorilla and Wildlife

When planning a combined safari in Uganda and Rwanda, you have the option to travel by road or air, depending on your preferences. Road transport is a more economical and scenic choice, allowing you to drive from Kigali through the Gatuna or Cyanika border, clear customs, and continue into Uganda. If you prefer air travel, several airlines operate between Uganda and Rwanda. Upon arrival in Uganda, charter flights can be arranged in advance to transport you from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to the nearest airstrips in southwestern Uganda for your gorilla safari.

Accommodation options for the safari range from luxury to mid-range and budget facilities. The overall cost of your safari will largely depend on the type of accommodation you choose. It’s advisable to discuss your preferences with your tour operator to tailor the best options to fit your budget.

The season of travel also significantly impacts the cost of the combined safari. During the peak/dry season (June to September and December to February), prices tend to be higher due to increased demand. In contrast, traveling during the wet/low season (March to May and October to November) often offers discounts on accommodation, reducing the overall cost. Additionally, traveling in a group can lower expenses as costs are shared among the participants.

Packing appropriately for your combined safari is crucial. Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, neutral-colored long-sleeved clothing, garden gloves, a waterproof rain jacket, binoculars, a camera with extra batteries, insect repellent, a first aid kit, a sun hat, sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and snacks. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as both Uganda and Rwanda experience rains even during the dry season.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and wildlife safaris in Rwanda are available year-round. However, the dry season is the ideal time to visit, and planning 6 to 15 months in advance is recommended to secure your spot.