Who Killed Dian Fossey?

You cannot discuss gorilla trekking in Africa without mentioning Dian Fossey, the American primatologist who played a pivotal role in conserving mountain gorillas in the wild. Born on January 16, 1932, in San Francisco, California, Fossey developed a deep passion for animals early in life. Her fascination with mountain gorillas began after reading the work of George Schaller, a renowned zoologist studying these primates in their natural habitat.

Impressed by her dedication and knowledge, Dr. Louis Leakey, a legendary archaeologist, hired Fossey in 1966 to study gorillas in the Virunga Massif. She began her research in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo, focusing on gorilla behavior and conservation.

Dian Fossey’s Move to Rwanda

Political instability in the Congo forced Fossey to flee after a dangerous encounter with rebels. She relocated to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, where she established the Karisoke Research Center, nestled between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. Here, she conducted groundbreaking work in gorilla habituation and implemented crucial conservation strategies to protect the endangered species.

Conservation Efforts and Challenges

During her research, Fossey observed that gorilla populations faced several threats. Natural challenges, such as diseases like Ebola, were devastating. However, human-induced threats—particularly poaching were within her power to control. Poachers set traps, killed adult gorillas, and smuggled infants for illegal trade. The death of her favorite gorilla, Digit, sparked a personal crusade against poaching.

To combat these threats, Fossey initiated patrols, destroyed traps, and confiscated snares. She even went further, taking action against poachers’ properties, which angered local communities and created powerful enemies.

The Tragic Death of Dian Fossey

On December 26, 1985, Dian Fossey was brutally murdered in her cabin with a machete. Many believe poachers, angered by her relentless fight to protect gorillas, were responsible, while others speculate that it could have been linked to political rebels from Congo. Despite numerous investigations, the exact identity of her killer remains unknown. Her death was a heartbreaking loss for wildlife conservation.

Dian Fossey’s Legacy and Gorilla Trekking Today

Thanks to Fossey’s tireless work, gorilla trekking in Africa has become one of the continent’s most sought-after wildlife experiences. Today, travelers can access mountain gorillas in several countries and national parks:

Uganda

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Trek the gorillas in Buhoma, Nkuringo, Rushaga, and Ruhija sectors.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Explore the slopes of Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Sabinyo.
• Gorilla Habituation Experience – Spend extended time with gorillas in the wild for $1,500 USD, learning to help habituate them to human presence.
• Gorilla Trekking Permit – Costs $800 USD per person.

Rwanda

• Volcanoes National Park – Trek the Virunga mountains, including Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke.
• Gorilla Trekking Permit – Costs $1,500 USD per person, offering a premium encounter with mountain gorillas.

Democratic Republic of Congo

• Virunga National Park – Home to mountain gorillas and the eastern lowland gorillas. Trekking here offers one of the most unique gorilla encounters in Africa.

Dian Fossey’s dedication ensured that future generations could witness these magnificent creatures in the wild, making gorilla trekking in Africa a sustainable and unforgettable adventure.