Apparently the mountain gorillas of the Rwanda Virunga Mountains (a mountain border region where Rwanda, Uganda and Congo meet), are the only great ape species to have increased in number in recent decades. But that’s not saying much, since their numbers are so few that they remain endangered.

Dian Fossey believed they would be extinct by the end of the 20^th century and I still wonder if the next generation and the one after that will still be able to witness this cousin of ours.  I’ve been lucky enough to do so on a couple of occasions (in Uganda), and it’s got to be a high bucket list contender for any wildlife enthusiast. Read about my Uganda adventure on this site.

I you want to visit Fossey’s Karisoke Research Foundation on the edge of the park, I suggest you check in at Volcanoes Safaris’ Virunga Lodge. From here you hike into the wilderness and pay homage to this esteemed primatologist at her final resting place.

You’ve seen the film…right? Gorillas in the Mist tells the true story of how Diane Fossey did whatever it took to save the gorillas from poachers and warring soldiers, losing her life in the process. She was one of the three Louis Leakey’s ladies, sent by him to save primates in the wild. The others being Birutė Galdikas saving the Borneo orang utans and Jane Goodall, with the Gombe Stream chimps of Tanzania. I have travelled the world searching for primates in the wild, including to Birute’s research station in Kalimantan, I’ve seen wild chimps in Africa and lemurs Madagascar. I would have liked to be a Louis Leakey lady!

4-Day Virunga Safari

From Virunga Lodge, perched high on a ridge with soaring views of the volcanoes and lakes, you can hike into the montagne forest and engage with the mountain gorillas in their habitat. This 4-day itinerary includes:

–       Gorilla Tracking in the Volcanoes National Park

–       Dian Fossey’s Grave and Karisoke Research Centre

–       Golden Monkey Tracking in the Volcanoes National Park

–       Intore Dance Performances at the Lodge

–       Mwiko Primary School Community Support Project

 Bookings: salesrw@volcanoessafaris.com, +44 3333 239 740

Volcanoes Safaris contributes $100 from the each guest’s safari price to the non-profit Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust for conservation activities and community initiatives.

I have set my intention to visit Rwanda and Virunga Lodge.  What’s your next travel intention?

Silverback Gorilla in Rwanda photo Volcanoes Safaris

Have you seen gorillas in the wild? What was your experience.  Please add a comment..I’d love to hear from  you.