DIAN FOSSEY HIKE—WHERE WAS DIAN FOSSEY BURIED?

The Dian Fossey hike in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, is a poignant tribute to the renowned primatologist who dedicated her life to studying endangered mountain gorillas.

The hike takes you through lush forest to her grave, near her favorite gorilla Digit’s tomb.

Buried alongside Digit and other beloved gorillas, Fossey’s final resting place offers stunning mountain views with opportunities to see several highlights in Parc National des Volcans.

This hike honors her legacy and conservation work, allowing visitors to pay respects to the legendary researcher who fought tirelessly to protect the gorillas and the gorilla groups.

During Rwanda tours, the Dian Fossey hike is a must-do experience in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.

Let us interest you in what the Dian Fossey Hike encompasses!

Who Is Dian Fossey?

Dian Fossey was a renowned American primatologist and conservationist who dedicated her life to studying and protecting gorillas in Rwanda.

Born in 1932, Fossey spent 18 years researching these endangered apes, becoming a leading authority on their behavior and physiology.

Before her groundbreaking work with gorillas, Fossey began her career as an occupational therapist in California.

In 1955, she relocated to Louisville, Kentucky, where she worked at Kosair Crippled Children’s Hospital.

Inspired by Louis Leakey, Fossey’s passion shifted to studying wild gorillas. She established the Karisoke Centre in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park in 1967.

Dian was affectionately known as “Nyiramachabelli”—the woman who lives alone in the forest—in the local Kinyarwanda language, which is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her research and gorilla conservation work in Parc National des Volcans.

Fossey’s story was immortalized in the 1988 film “Gorillas in the Mist,” starring Sigourney Weaver, and her tireless anti-poaching efforts resulted in numerous arrests and convictions, with some poachers still serving their sentences.

Dian Fossey Achievements 

Fossey’s achievements include:

• Establishing the Karisoke Research Centre in the Virunga Mountains
• Pioneering groundbreaking research methods that greatly improved the world’s understanding of gorilla behavior and physiology
• Advocating for mountain gorilla protection against poaching, leading to a significant reduction in gorilla poaching
• Founding the Digit Fund, a charitable organization dedicated to supporting her efforts to end poaching and protect mountain gorilla habitats
• Writing the seminal book “Gorillas in the Mist,” which cemented her legacy as a leading gorilla expert

Dian Fossey Death

Fossey’s life was tragically cut short when she was found murdered in 1985 by suspected poachers, likely due to her strong anti-poaching convictions.

She was found dead in her living quarters, and the circumstances surrounding her death remain a mystery.

Fossey was buried near her loving gorillas, including Digit, at the Karisoke Research Centre.

Her legacy continues through the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, which works toward gorilla conservation and protection!

Volcanoes National Park – Where Was Dian Fossey Buried?

Fossey is buried at the Research Station (Karisoke), located between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke/Visoke in Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda, which offers stunning views of the Virunga ranges and is home to mountain gorillas.

These can all be seen on Rwanda safaris, including gorilla trekking safaris, golden monkey tracking, etc.

The Dian Fossey Grave Site

It is located in Parc National des Volcans near the Karisoke Centre and is a poignant tribute to her legacy.

Her tombstone bears a heartfelt inscription, “No one loved gorillas more…,” and she is buried alongside her beloved gorilla Digit and other gorillas killed by poachers.

The site has become a pilgrimage for those inspired by Fossey’s conservation work and is maintained by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, which continues her vital efforts to protect gorillas and their habitats.

The grave stands as a testament to Fossey’s dedication and lasting impact on gorilla conservation!

The Dian Fossey Grave Hike – How Best to See the Dian Fossey Grave in Volcanoes National Park?

Hiking to Mount Karisimbi is the only way to see Dian Fossey’s burial site when on Rwanda tours.

You can experience the unique hike to Dian’s grave a day before gorilla trekking in Parc National des Volcans.

Preparation for a Dian Fossey Trek Safari

To embark on a hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb, several preparations are necessary:

1)      Obtain a permit from the Parc National des Volcans office or Rwanda Tourism Board offices in Kigali ($75), and it is worth noting that a portion of the permit fee supports gorilla conservation projects.

2)      Choose from various accommodation options around Parc National des Volcans, depending on budget and preference, to stay on arrival at the park.

3)      To prepare for the hike, wear sturdy hiking shoes or waterproof boots with grip, protective clothing such as trousers, long socks, hand gloves, and a long-sleeved shirt, and bring packed snacks and drinking water.

4)      The Dian Fossey trek begins with an early morning start at Parc National des Volcans headquarters, where you show the permit and travel documents during a briefing before the hike.

5) This is followed by a 30-minute drive to the starting point and then a 3–4 hour trek starting outside the park boundary and following the same trail used for Mount Bisoke hiking through dense Hagenia-Hypericum forest, where you may spot monkeys.

6) You’ll be accompanied by park rangers or armed rangers, and you can hire porters to help with luggage and navigating difficult terrain on the mountain slopes, especially in the rainy season, and it requires a decent level of physical fitness.

Following these steps will prepare you for an enjoyable hiking trip to the Dian Fossey Grave!

Duration for Hiking to the Dian Fossey Grave | How Long Is the Dian Fossey Hike?

The hike to Dian Fossey’s grave typically takes around 3–4 hours, passing through dense bamboo and hagenia forests with potential sightings of rare plants, birds, and vervet monkeys.

After visiting the grave, descending back to the starting point takes an additional 1–2 hours.

What to Expect on A Fossey Trek

A Dian Fossey tomb hike offers a unique experience, combining stunning natural beauty with insights into the life and work of the famous primatologist. This is what you can expect:

Rules and Regulations for the Fossey Trek

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, follow these rules and regulations:

• A permit is required for the hike, costing $75, and bookings are done on a first-come, first-served basis.
• The minimum age for the Dian Fossey Tomb hike is 15 years.
• The reporting time is 07:00 am at Park Headquarters in Kinigi.
• Good hiking attire and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended for the hike.
• Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid loud noises and sudden movements.
• Visitors must stay on designated paths, follow guide instructions, and not litter or feed wildlife.
• Maintain a respectful attitude at the gravesite and keep noise levels down.
• Be aware of your surroundings and potential encounters with wild animals.
• No flash photography is allowed inside Fossey’s grave itself.

Booking A Dian Fossey Grave Hike Safari

To book a Dian Fossey tomb hike for your Rwanda safari, follow these steps:

• Reach out to reputable tour operators in Rwanda, such as Prime safaris and Tours Ltd., among others, or contact the Parc National des Volcans.
• Obtain a Fossey trekking permit at the Research Center (Karisoke) on the day of your hike (typically $75).
• Consider packages that include gorilla trekking and the Dian Fossey tomb hike, which can be customized to fit your budget and preferences.
• Ensure you have the necessary documents, such as residency status or passports, and pay applicable fees.

Bookings are done on a first-come, first-served basis, so plan accordingly to secure your spot, especially during peak months!

Safari Prices For the Dian Fossey Grave Hike Tours

The cost for a Dian Fossey Grave Hike tour includes a hiking permit and park ranger guide fees, priced at $75 per person according to the Rwanda Development Board. This fee varies depending on your residency status:

• Foreigner: $75
• Foreign Resident in Rwanda: $60 (adult), $45 (student/child)
• Rwandan Citizen: RWF 4,000 (adult), RWF 2,000 (child)
• East African Citizen: $55 (adult), $45 (student/child)
• East African Foreign Resident: $65 (adult), $45 (student/child)

It’s essential to book these permits in advance for a hassle-free Rwanda safari!

Other Tourist Attractions Seen on a Fossey Trek in Parc National des Volcans (E.G., Mountain Gorillas) 

1)      Beautiful Mountain Gorillas: Explore the natural habitat of these gentle giants, characterized by their thick fur and robust bodies, and get a chance to see a gorilla troop led by a dominant silverback.

2)      Karisoke Research Center: Learn about the research and conservation efforts for these great apes at this renowned facility to better understand gorilla behavior and ecology.

3)      Other Fauna (Primates &Wildlife Species): Spot various primates and wildlife, including vervet monkeys, forest hogs, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and forest elephants. And on a lucky day, you can see monkeys foraging for food or forest elephants grazing in the valleys.

4)      Stunning Bird Species: Discover over 200 bird species, including the majestic grey-crowned crane, the rare African broadbill, the Rwenzori Turaco, and the Regal Sunbird, among other birds.

These tourist attractions make a Dian Fossey tomb hike a unique and unforgettable Rwanda safari experience!

ADDITIONAL SAFARI ACTIVITIES TO PARTAKE IN WHEN ON DIAN FOSSEY GRAVE HIKES.

• Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tours
• Golden Monkey Tracking
• Virunga Volcano Hiking
• Big Game Viewing
• Visits to Rwandan Genocide Memorial Centres
• Cultural experiences in cultural villages
• Birding tours
• Karisoke research camp visits

Book with reputable Rwanda tour operators to help customize the best safari package, catering to the best activities there are for an unforgettable Rwanda safari!

How To Get to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park for a Dian Fossey Tomb Hike? 

To visit Dian Fossey’s tomb site in Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda, follow these steps:

Option 1: Fly to Kigali International Airport, drive 2 hours to Musanze and another 30 minutes to the park’s trailhead, then hike 1-3 hours with an armed ranger guide to reach the tomb site near the Karisoke research camp.

Option 2: Travel to Parc National des Volcans from neighboring countries by taking a taxi from Kampala, Uganda, to the Cyanika Border Post and then finding transportation to Musanze, or by taking a bus or taxi from Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo directly to the park.

Alternative options to reach Volcanoes National Park include using public transportation, renting a car, or booking a guided safari package.

By following these travel steps, you’ll be able to reach Fossey’s tomb site and enjoy a memorable hike in Parc National des Volcans!

Where To Stay in Rwanda When on Dian Fossey Tomb Hike Tours? 

When planning to hike to Dian’s tomb in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, consider staying at one of these safari lodges or campsites near the park for a tranquil experience:

• Virunga Volcanoes Lodge (luxury)
• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (luxury)
• Bisate Lodge (luxury)
• Mountain Gorillas Nest Lodge (Mid-Range)
• Kinigi Guesthouse (low budget)
• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (low budget)

Book in advance to avoid disappointment on your Rwanda tours!

Best Time to Visit Rwanda for Fossey Treks 

The best time to visit Rwanda for Fossey treks is during the dry season (June-September and December-February), when the walking trail is less slippery, making the hike easier and more enjoyable; and if the hike is to be combined with Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris, book gorilla trekking permits ($1500/person) at least 5 months in advance.

Safari Packing List for Dian Fossey Grave Hikes 

When preparing for a hike to Dian’s tomb, consider packing the following essentials:

Clothing: Pack sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, breathable clothing, long-sleeved shirts and pants, gardening gloves, and layers for temperature changes, as well as a waterproof rain jacket for a Fossey trek tour.

Personal Essentials: For a Fossey tomb hike, pack essentials like a valid passport, Rwanda visa, travel insurance, safari permit, first-aid kit, camera, snacks, water bottle, and backpack, and don’t forget to obtain a walking stick provided by park rangers.

Other Items: Bring additional items like a map, flashlight, emergency whistle, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, reusable bag, credit card, and Rwandan Francs to be fully prepared for a Fossey trek.

Packing Tips:

• Dress modestly and respectfully in neutral tones
• Be prepared for mud, slippery trails, and changing weather conditions

Check with your safari operator for specific packing requirements and recommendations for your Rwanda trip!

Dian Fossey Hike FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

1. Can You Visit Dian Fossey Grave?

Yes, you can tour the Dian Fossey tomb on a Rwanda tour.

3. Is Dian Fossey Buried Next to Digit?

Fossey is buried alongside Digit, her favorite gorilla, at Karisoke Research Camp in Rwanda, a testament to their bond.

4. Did Jane Goodall Meet Dian Fossey?

Fossey met Jane Goodall at Gombe Stream Research Centre in 1966, learning from her chimpanzee research methods.

5. When Was Dian Fossey Buried?

Dian was buried in December 1985 at Karisoke Research Camp, near Digit’s grave, in a gorilla cemetery.

6. What Languages Did Dian Fossey Speak?

Dian, the American zoologist, spoke English and Kinyarwanda, with basic knowledge of German and French, during her Rwandan research, according to Wikipedia.

The Dian Fossey grave hike in Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda, honors the famous primatologist buried near her favourite gorilla Digit at Karisoke, a testament to her love for endangered gorillas in their natural habitat. Book a Rwanda safari holiday to Parc National des Volcans and see this tomb site firsthand!