Hike to the Dian Fossey Tomb in Rwanda

It is worthwhile to walk to the grave of American primatologist Dian Fossey, who gave her life to save the mountain gorillas. Travellers can gain a comprehensive grasp of the history of gorilla tourism in Rwanda and the sacrifice made by an American primatologist to conserve the critically endangered mountain gorillas during the Dian Fossey graveyard hike.

Honouring the extraordinary Dian Fossey is possible with a walk up an active volcano to 3700 metres above sea level. She is buried here with twenty-three of her favourite primates. The extinction of a species is a devastating rip in the fabric of human or natural life, as anyone who has had the opportunity to look into the eyes of a gorilla would know.

Visit this small exhibition ideally prior to tracking gorillas. In just thirty minutes, one can learn a great deal at this highly instructive place. It’s incredible to witness Dian Fossey’s legacy in the Research Centre and in the conservation of such magnificent creatures after a strenuous walk with a first-rate guide who shared insightful information about the life, demise, and achievements of Dian Fossey. The hike takes many hours and included a variety of terrain, including some flat walking, some muddy sections, and at times, dense foliage, including stinging nettles.

The hike is quite demanding; it requires one to be physically fit and energetic due to the steep inclines and the rugged, muddy and soggy routes through the mountain forest. As you continue to enjoy an intriguing stroll through a little village with pleasant, smiling children greeting us along the route, you will eventually reach the trail head.

To shield your hands from the stinging nettles, put on long sleeves, long trousers and trekking or gardening gloves. Since you will probably be bringing a lunch, water, camera, etc., hire a porter to carry your pack. Porters are also quite useful for “pulling” you up steep hills and assisting with your descent. Overall, a reasonable walk, though breathing difficulties may arise from the sudden elevation difference. Guards who walk ahead to ensure that there are no hazardous circumstances with wildlife, such as gorillas, buffalo, or elephants, are informative.