Embark on the memorable Dian Fossey hike in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda a rewarding journey through lush forests to the Dian Fossey tomb and Karisoke research camp.

The Fossey climb ends with the Fossey burial site, where the famed primatologist is buried next to her favourite gorilla, Digit, and other beloved gorillas who were killed by hunters.

The hike is ideal for Rwanda safari lovers and starts at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi, where you get to have a taste of the natural habitat of the endangered mountain gorillas, golden simians, and insights from the army rangers.

Gorilla trekking and this heart-lifting ascent on the mountain slopes honours a legacy that spared wild gorillas from extinction.

Whether planning a Fossey trek or a Dian Fossey adventure, this activity in Parc National des Volcans blends history, wildlife, and adventure in Rwanda.

Below are more details about this Fossey Trek!

Who Is Dian Fossey?

Dian Fossey was an American zoologist and famed primatologist who studied mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park for 18 years. Born in 1932, she founded the Karisoke study centre between Mt. Karisimbi and Mt. Bisoke and became an authority on great apes. Fossey, known locally as the woman living alone in the forest, accustomed wild apes to human presence, published a book that subsequently became a film with Weaver (Sigourney), and spearheaded anti-poaching operations. While working at the research site, she learned about the threats of poachers, arrested many, and defended gorilla troops/groups. She was mysteriously murdered in 1985, but her legacy lives on in the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to preserve rare mountain gorillas in their habitat as seen on Rwanda safaris.

Outstanding Dian Fossey Achievements

• Founded the research camp Karisoke in 1967 to study gorillas long-term in Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda.
• Habituated wild gorillas to people for intimate observation of gorilla troops/groups and behaviour.
• Wrote “Gorillas in the Mist,” bringing worldwide attention to endangered mountain gorillas, leading to the 1988 film starring Sigourney Weaver.
• Led anti-poaching patrols, arresting poachers and decreasing threats to gorillas killed in traps.
• Founded the Digit Fund (now the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund) for conservation work.
• Worked to stop habitat destruction to ensure the survival of mountain gorillas where they live.
• Conducted 18 years of study at Karisoke Research Centre, recording physiological and social structure.
• Protected over 20 beloved apes buried at the gorilla graveyard.
• Collaborated with park/army rangers to patrol mountain inclines against poachers.

Dian Fossey Death

Dian Fossey was found murdered in 1985 at her remote cabin in Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda, likely by poachers angered by her fierce anti-poaching campaigns. The circumstances remain unsolved, but her death highlighted risks in protecting threatened gorillas. Buried at the Karisoke research center beside her favorite gorilla Digit and other murdered gorillas, her gravesite inspires visitors on the Fossey stroll. Despite the tragedy during Rwanda’s turbulent times near the Rwandan genocide era, Fossey’s efforts ensured gorilla troops/groups thrived. The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund continues her work from the Ellen DeGeneres Campus, safeguarding unhabituated gorillas in Parc National des Volcans.

Volcanoes National Park | Where is the Dian Fossey Grave Hike Done?

The Dian Fossey promenade across the Virungas is in Rwanda, near Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans). This national park, which extends across mountain slopes, protects rare gorillas in their natural habitat, with the walk beginning from the park headquarters in Kinigi.

There are gorilla troops, golden simians, and the research camp Karisoke. There are gorilla walks and Fossey excursions.

A short drive brings us to the park boundary where the trailhead starts. The walk goes through the hypericum forest to the Dian Fossey grave.

The Parc National des Volcans is a highlight of a Rwanda safari, combining conservation with vistas of Mount Karisimbi and the spectacular Dian Fossey tomb tour.

The Dian Fossey Tomb —Where Was Dian Fossey Buried?

Dian Fossey’s tomb lies at the abandoned research camp Karisoke in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. She was buried in the gorilla graveyard she created for gorillas murdered by poachers, next to her favorite gorilla of all—Digit—and over 19 others.

The gravesite, inscribed “No one loved gorillas more,” honors her bond with beloved apes/gorillas. Accessible via the Dian Fossey stroll, it remains a peaceful spot maintained by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, symbolizing her fight against poachers in the great apes’ habitat.

The Dian Fossey Grave Hike Experience—How Can You See the Dian Fossey Grave in Volcanoes National Park?

To experience the Dian Fossey grave hike in Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda, begin at 7:00 am from the park headquarters for a briefing. A 30-minute drive reaches the trailhead outside the park boundary, then hike 1-3 hours through forests to research camp Karisoke.

Guided by park/army rangers, the Fossey stroll reveals the Dian Fossey tomb, her cabin ruins where she was mysteriously murdered, and the gorilla graveyard.

This is a must-do Rwanda safari excursion for wildlife lovers as it cuts across gorilla habitats and offers wildlife views but no photography. Pair with gorilla trekking the previous day for a full Parc National des Volcans experience.

Preparation for a Dian Fossey Grave Hike Safari

For the Dian Fossey walk in Rwanda, get a permit costing $75 from the tour companies or the Parc National des Volcans office. Arrive at Parc National des Volcans Kinigi HQs at 7:00 am with passport and visa for briefing. Drive 30 mins to 30 mins to the beginning point and trek with park/army rangers and optional porters ($10-20) for kit.

When muddy mountain inclines are encountered in the wet season, wear waterproof boots, long pants, sleeves, gloves and a rain jacket. Be sure to bring water, food, a walking stick (supplied), and be ready for difficult slopes. Employ porters to help local people; this Fossey preparation guarantees a safe and rewarding Rwanda safari to the Dian Fossey burial site.

Hike Distance and Challenges to the Dian Fossey Stroll

The Fossey stroll is a 6 km round excursion in Parc National des Volcans with a 30-minute drive from headquarters to the trailhead. Trek 1-3 hours uphill through muddy, steep sections at 2,900- 3,000 m. You will need fitness and a walking stick. The problems are slippery hypericum jungle trails and the possibility of rain; porters help to lighten the burden on steep inclines.

The walk to Dian Fossey’s tomb is physically, emotionally, and intellectually uplifting.

What to Expect on A Fossey Trek?

Breathtaking Views and Wildlife

Expect stunning Virunga vistas, DR Congo glimpses, and wildlife like forest hogs, forest jumbos, golden simians, and birds on the Dian Fossey stroll through Rwanda’s lush forests.

Dian Fossey’s Legacy and Conservation Efforts

Honor Dian Fossey’s anti-poaching legacy at her tomb beside Digit; learn how her Karisoke lab/research saved threatened gorillas, with park rangers sharing stories of beloved gorillas protected and how Fossey’s anti-poaching patrols led to the arrest of many poachers who were sentenced to jail.

Visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus, which serves as the current headquarters for the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

The Hike

The Fossey stroll begins at 7:00 am at Parc National des Volcans headquarters, a 30-minute drive to the trailhead, then 3-6 hours round trip via the park boundary through bamboo and hypericum jungle with park rangers.

Hikers are required to show their permits during the briefing just before setting off to the head trail.

Hike Surroundings and Notable Sites

Hike surroundings feature a saddle between Mt. Karisimbi and Bisoke, the research camp Karisoke ruins, a gorilla graveyard, and Dian Fossey’s cabin, where she was mysteriously killed, all in the gorillas’ habitat.

Duration and difficulty of the walk

Duration: 3 to 6 hours in total, 1 to 3 hours up. Difficulty: Good fitness for steep, muddy terrain at high altitudes. Help: Use trekking sticks and porters on mountain inclines

Elevation & Terrain of the Hike

Elevation from 2500-2600m to 3000m. The terrain is steep, slippery mud, dense woodland, and hypericum. It is a difficult but worthwhile walk to the resting place of Dian Fossey in Parc National des Volcans.

Other Things to See on A Fossey Trek in Parc National Des Volcans (E.G., Mountain Gorillas)

1) Mountain Gorillas

During the Dian Fossey stroll in Parc National des Volcans, though without photos, you can see mountain gorillas from a distance; see gorillas on the route in their natural environment.

2) Karisoke Research Camp

Explore the remnants of the abandoned Karisoke camp where Fossey worked with gorillas for 18 years, now a major stop on the Fossey stroll telling the conservation tale.

3) Other Wild Fauna (Primates & Wild Species)

Add a variety of Rwanda wildlife on mountain slopes where you can meet forest pigs, forest elephants, buffaloes, and vervet monkeys and colobus on the Fossey tomb trip.

4) Beautiful Bird Species

Walk to the Fossey tomb through the hypericum forest, home to over 200 species of birds, including Rwenzori turacos, crowned cranes, and sunbirds.

Additional Information to Consider During the Dian Fossey Hike

Rules and Regulations for the Fossey Grave Trek

• Minimum age 15 years.
• Report at 7:00 am at Kinigi park HQs with permit, passport, and visa.
• Follow Park/army rangers’ instructions; stay on the walking trail.
• No photography at Dian Fossey’s grave site; be quiet and respectful.
• Maintain distance from wildlife; no feeding, littering, or loud noises.
• No flash photography; hiring porters is encouraged.
• First-come, first-served bookings; no erroneous applications.
• Foreign residents need 4+ months of proof for discounts.

Booking and planning A Dian Fossey Grave Hike Tour

Book the hike to Dian Fossey resting place via Rwanda tour operators or visitrwandabookings.rdb.rw, securing $75 permit in advance, especially during peak season.

Plan with reputable operators for combined Rwanda safari packages, including gorilla trekking. Provide full details: name, passport, email, and phone.

Pay at booking; first-come, first-served. Include transport from Kigali (2-3 hours to Parc National des Volcans offices), accommodation, and porters.

Customize for Fossey or Dian Fossey strolls, ensuring identification for briefing. This planning guarantees a smooth trek to the Karisoke camp and Dian Fossey tomb.

Average Safari Costs for the Dian Fossey Tomb Hike Tours

Combining the Dian Fossey Stroll with Other Activities in Parc National des Volcans

1) Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris

Couple the Dian Fossey walk with gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda, then see gorilla groups the next day for the whole Parc National des Volcans experience.

2) Golden Monkeys Tracking

For various Rwanda safaris, add golden monkeys tracking to your agenda and watch these lively primates in bamboo zones along with the Fossey trek.

3) Volcano Hiking of The Virungas

Combine with Virunga volcano treks such as Mount Bisoke or Karisimbi, sharing paths for longer experiences in Parc National des Volcans.

4) Big Wildlife Viewing

You can see much of wildlife on the paths on the Dian Fossey Graveyard trip, like forest elephants, buffaloes and hogs.

5) Tour of The Rwandan Genocide Memorial Centres

For a deeper Rwanda cultural safari, consider visiting the Rwanda genocide memorial centres in Kigali after your climb to reflect on history.

6) Cultural Experiences of Batwa Cultural Villages

Enjoy the Dian Fossey stroll experience by visiting nearby Batwa ethnic villages and experiencing their rituals and dances

7) Bird Watching Tours

Bird-watching tours are also offered, with colourful species to spot in the trees along the walking track to the Karisoke research centre.

8) Tours of the Karisoke Research Camp

Take the entire Karisoke camp tour to see the ruins and the gorilla graveyard, in addition to the usual grave visit of Dian Fossey.

Dian Fossey Stroll Planning and Logistics | Getting to Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans for a Dian Fossey Graveyard Tour

Fly into Kigali International Airport and drive 2-3 hours to Musanze and then 30 minutes to Kinigi HQ for the Dian Fossey Graveyard tour at Parc National des Volcans.

You can also take taxis from the Cyanika border in Uganda or buses from Goma in DR Congo. Rwanda safari logistics are easy with public transport, car hiring, or tour firms.

Report 7:00 am with your permits, and armed park/army rangers will guide the 30-min trip to the trailhead.

Go with a reputable operator for combined gorilla trekking to ensure seamless entrance to the park boundary and Karisoke.

World-Class Accommodation in Rwanda for Dian Fossey Graveyard Hike Tours

Budget: Kinigi Guesthouse, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (basic comforts near park HQs)

Midrange: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Luxury: Virunga Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge and Bisate Lodge (up-market eco-lodges with facilities in the Parc National des Volcans area).

Best Time to Visit Rwanda Parc National des Volcans for Fossey Tomb Treks

The best time for Dian Fossey Graveyard walks in Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans is the dry season of June-September and December-February, when routes are less muddy and slippery. Avoid the rainy season, as it can be difficult to hike up mountain inclines/slopes. Peak months are the same as gorilla walking season; book permits five months in advance ($1,500 for gorillas).

The dry seasons improve the views of the Virungas, animals including golden simians and the general Rwanda safari comfort at the Karisoke camp, but year-round access.

Rwanda Safari Packing List for Dian Fossey Grave Hikes

• Waterproof hiking boots with traction for muddy trails.
• Long pants, sleeves, and gloves to protect from nettles.
• Rain jacket, layers for variable weather.
• Walking stick (provided), backpack, water bottle, snacks.
• Gardening gloves, insect repellent.
• Passport, visa, permit, and travel insurance.
• Camera (no flash at grave), binoculars, first-aid kit.
• Energy snacks, reusable bag, neutral-colored clothes.
• Credit card, Rwandan francs, flashlight, whistle.

Best Rwanda Tour Operators offering Dian Fossey Graveyard Tours

• Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd
• Wild Gorilla Safaris
• Gorilla Safari Rwanda
• Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris
• Gorilla Tracking Rwanda
• Africa Safaris Tours
• Gorilla Safaris and Tours

Popular Dian Fossey Tomb Tour Packages

• 1-Day Dian Fossey Graveyard Hike Tour
• 3–4 Days Dian Fossey & Gorilla Walking Package
• 3–4 Days Dian Fossey, Gorilla Walking & Golden Monkey Tour
• 5–7 Days Primate Safari (Dian Fossey, Gorillas & Chimpanzees)
• 6–9 Days Rwanda Highlights Safari (Fossey Stroll, Gorillas, Akagera & Lake Kivu)
• Extended Rwanda Safari (Dian Fossey Stroll + Nyungwe Forest, Akagera & Cultural Experiences)

Dian Fossey Tomb Tour FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Did Jane Goodall Meet Dian Fossey?

Yes, Jane Goodall met Dian Fossey in 1966 at Gombe Stream Research Centre, where Fossey learned techniques of chimpanzee research before going on to study gorillas in Rwanda.

2. How Long Is the Dian Fossey Hike?

The hike to Dian Fossey resting place lasts 3-6 hours round trip, including a 1-3 hour ascent from the trailhead after a 30-minute drive from Parc National des Volcans offices.

3. Can You Visit Dian Fossey Grave?

Absolutely, you can visit Fossey’s grave via a permitted hike to Karisoke in Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda, paying respects at the gorilla graveyard.

4. Did Dian Fossey Write Gorillas in The Mist?

Yes, Dian Fossey wrote this book about her 18 years with gorillas, which was later adapted into a film starring Sigourney Weaver.

5. Is Dian Fossey Buried Next to Digit?

Yes, Dian Fossey is buried beside her absolute favourite gorilla of all Digit, and over 19 others killed by poachers at the Karisoke gorilla graveyard.

6. Can You Visit Dian Fossey’s Grave?

You can go to Fossey’s grave in Parc National des Volcans with park rangers as your guides to the grave site for $75.

7. When Was Dian Fossey Buried?

Dian Fossey was buried in December 1985 at Karisoke camp’s gorilla cemetery in Rwanda, following her murder on December 27.

8. What Languages Did Dian Fossey Speak?

Dian Fossey was a native English speaker who spoke a little Kinyarwanda to deal with the locals, plus a little German and French from her years of research in Rwanda.

In Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans, the Dian Fossey Stroll is a touching tribute to a primatologist’s lasting legacy, blending adventure with lectures on gorilla conservation at her cemetery. Call us today to design the perfect Dian Fossey Graveyard Tour for you and have the time of your life!