The hike to Dian Fossey’s grave in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, climbs through farmland and forest to the site of the Karisoke Research Center, which she founded in 1967 between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. Her grave lies in the gorilla cemetery beside Digit and other gorillas. The round trip usually takes four to six hours and costs US$75.
Key takeaways
- Karisoke was founded in 1967.
- Fossey is buried beside her gorillas.
- Round trip of about 4–6 hours.
- US$75 per person.
Dian Fossey studied mountain gorillas in the Virunga volcanoes for nearly two decades. Her research and campaigning helped save the species. She was murdered at Karisoke in December 1985, and her story became famous through the book and film Gorillas in the Mist.
The hike
After a briefing at Kinigi, you drive to the trailhead and walk through farmland to the park boundary. The trail then climbs steeply through bamboo and hagenia forest, often muddy, to the remains of the camp. The climb takes about two to three hours.
At the site
Little remains of the buildings, but signs mark where the cabins stood. The gorilla cemetery holds the graves of Digit and other gorillas, and Fossey’s grave lies beside them. Guides tell the story of her life and work.
Wildlife
You may see forest birds, golden monkeys, buffalo signs and, occasionally, gorillas passing nearby, although this is not a gorilla trek.
When to go
The hike runs year-round. Dry months, June to September and December to February, make the trail easier.
Good to know
- The fee is US$75 per person.
- Wear waterproof boots and long trousers.
- Hire a porter to help on steep sections.
- Visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund campus in Musanze to learn about research today.
Who it suits
The hike suits fit walkers, history lovers and anyone inspired by Dian Fossey’s work. It is an excellent addition to a gorilla trek.
Fossey’s legacy
The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund continues her work today, monitoring gorilla families every day and supporting local communities. Mountain gorilla numbers have increased since her time, a sign that conservation can work. Read about the mountain gorilla.
Who was Dian Fossey?
Dian Fossey was an American primatologist who came to Africa with the encouragement of the paleoanthropologist Louis Leakey. She began studying gorillas in Congo in 1966, then moved to Rwanda, where she founded Karisoke in 1967. Her close observation of gorilla families showed the world their gentle, social nature. She also campaigned fiercely against poaching, which made her enemies.
Karisoke today
The original Karisoke camp was abandoned after Fossey’s death and later destroyed during conflict in the 1990s. Today, the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund runs the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund in Musanze, a modern research and education centre that opened in 2022. Visitors can see exhibits on gorilla research and conservation, and learn about the fund’s work protecting gorillas and supporting communities.
Fossey’s research
Fossey spent nearly 18 years observing gorilla families, naming individuals and recording their behaviour. Her book, Gorillas in the Mist, published in 1983, introduced the world to the gentle, social nature of mountain gorillas. Her campaigns against poaching were controversial but helped raise international awareness.
What to bring
- Waterproof boots and gaiters.
- Gloves for nettles and steep sections.
- A rain jacket and warm layer.
- Water and a packed lunch.
Who it suits
The hike suits fit walkers, history lovers and anyone inspired by Fossey’s story. It is a moving addition to a gorilla safari.
Getting there
The hike starts with the 7:00am briefing at the Kinigi park headquarters, about 30 minutes from Musanze and 2–2.5 hours from Kigali. After the briefing, a short drive takes you to the trailhead at the edge of the farmland. Most visitors stay at lodges near Kinigi or in Musanze the night before. The hike can be combined with gorilla trekking or golden monkey tracking on other days, and with Lake Kivu afterwards for a rest. Because the trail climbs steeply through mud and nettles, gloves and gaiters are very useful.
Plan it
Add the hike to our 3-day Rwanda gorilla and golden monkey safari or 5-day Rwanda gorillas, golden monkeys and Kigali. See gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the hike to Dian Fossey’s grave?
About four to six hours round trip.
How difficult is it?
Moderate to challenging, with steep, muddy sections.
Will I see gorillas?
It is not a gorilla trek, but gorillas are occasionally seen.
How much does it cost?
US$75 per person.
Can I combine it with gorilla trekking?
Yes, on a separate day. Both start from Kinigi.
When did Dian Fossey die?
She was murdered at Karisoke in December 1985.
How many people join the hike?
Groups are small and led by park guides, with porters available at the trailhead.
Can I visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund campus too?
Yes. The Ellen DeGeneres Campus in Musanze has exhibits on gorilla research and is easy to visit before or after the hike.
Written by our Kampala-based planners and guides, who arrange these trips every season. Prices and rules are checked before every quote.
