Dian Fossey Grave – Where Was Dian Fossey Buried?

The famous Dian Fossey grave, nestled in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, is a significant site of conservationist heroism, tragedy, and beauty. A Dian Fossey Grave hike is one of the major things to do in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Located in the northwestern corner of Rwanda, near the borders of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Volcanoes National Park, where Dian Fossey was buried, sits high in the jungle, approximately 55 miles (90 km) northwest of the capital city, Kigali.

This remote, scenic spot where the grave is found was Fossey’s base for 18 years while studying mountain gorillas in their family gorilla groups.

It’s also where she was mysteriously murdered by unknown assailants/poachers in 1985 in her living quarters and laid to rest alongside her beloved gorilla, Digit.

The simple, rustic grave in the Karisoke Research Center in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is marked by a plain stone slab surrounded by lush vegetation, evoking Dian Fossey’s passion for nature and groundbreaking work.

A memorial also honors her legacy in Nairobi National Park’s Karura Forest. Visitors can pilgrimage to the tomb via a scenic, yet challenging hike.

Here’s a detailed overview

Dian Fossey History – Who Is Dian Fossey?

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

Born in 1932 in San Francisco, California, to Kitty Kidd and George Fossey III, she pursued higher education at the University of California, Davis, and later at San Jose State College, where she earned a degree in occupational therapy in 1954.

Famous Gorilla Researcher Dian Fossey Achievements

Fossey began her career as an occupational therapist in California before relocating to Louisville, Kentucky, in 1955, where she took a position at Kosair Crippled Children’s Hospital.

Fossey was inspired by Louis Leakey to study wild gorillas, and she established the Karisoke Research Centre in Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains in 1967.

Through her groundbreaking research methods, Fossey greatly improved the world’s understanding of mountain gorilla behavior, physiology, and social structure.

In Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains, Fossey pioneered groundbreaking research by habituating a group of gorillas to her presence, allowing her to intimately observe their behavior.

Her remarkable work garnered global attention when iconic images of her interacting with gorillas were featured on the cover of National Geographic magazine.

Fossey’s rigorous scientific research also earned her widespread recognition, establishing her as the world’s leading authority on mountain gorilla behavior by the mid-1970s.

Dian’s personality was complex, with some describing her as prickly and difficult to interact with.

She seemingly had a stronger affinity or a particularly close bond to gorillas than people, yet her work relied heavily on collaborations with others, including porters, researchers, and academics.

Despite her reclusive nature at the Karisoke research base, Fossey maintained connections with the outside world, even serving as a visiting professor at Cornell University in 1980.

Her seminal book, “Gorillas in the Mist,” was published in 1983, cementing her legacy as a leading gorilla expert.

She became an outspoken advocate for gorilla conservation, particularly against poaching, and her efforts led to a significant reduction in gorilla poaching in Rwanda.

Dian founded the Digit Fund, a charitable organization dedicated to supporting her efforts to end poaching and protect their habitats.

Fossey earned the nickname “Nyiramachabelli,” meaning “the woman who lives alone in the forest,” in the local Kinyarwanda language, reflecting her solitary dedication to her own research and conservation work.

Her work has had a long-lasting impact on the world’s understanding and appreciation of mountain gorillas, and her tireless advocacy for their protection has ensured their continued survival.

Dian Fossey Death

Fossey’s life was marked by tragedy, including the murder of her beloved gorilla, Digit, and her brutal murder in 1985 in her living quarters following a suspected machete blow on her head by suspected poachers.

Despite the mystery surrounding her death, Fossey’s legacy lives on through the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, with the same name as the founder, which continues to work toward gorilla conservation.

Fossey’s story was immortalized in her book “Gorillas in the Mist” and the subsequent film adaptation of the same name starring Sigourney Weaver as the lead actress.

Where Was Dian Fossey Buried? | Where To Find the Dian Fossey Grave? – Volcanoes National Park

The Dian Fossey grave is found in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, located in northwestern Rwanda, and is a renowned tourist destination for gorilla trekking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

The park spans 160 square kilometers and features five majestic volcanoes. Within the park, the Dian Fossey Grave is situated near the Karisoke Research Centre, which Fossey founded.

The gravesite is located close to the Democratic Republic of Congo border, approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city.

Stunning Facts About Dian Fossey’s Grave Site

These are some of the interesting facts about Dian Fossey’s grave:

• Fossey’s grave is found in the Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, near the Karisoke Research Centre.
• The tombstone of Fossey bears a significant inscription that reads:

“No one loved gorillas more.

Rest in peace, dear friend.

Eternally protected in this sacred ground,

for you are home, where you belong.”

• A smaller stone in front of the main tombstone features an additional inscription in Kinyarwanda, paying further tribute to Fossey’s legacy.
• Dian Fossey was buried alongside her beloved gorilla, Digit, who was killed by poachers in 1978.
• The graveyard is also the final resting place for several other wild gorillas, including those killed by poachers.
• Fossey’s grave has become a place of pilgrimage for those inspired by her work and legacy in conserving gorillas and their habitats.
• The grave site is maintained by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, which continues Fossey’s work in gorilla conservation.

Dian Fossey Grave Hike – How Best to Visit the Dian Fossey Grave in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?

In order to visit the Dian Fossey grave and pay respects to Dian Fossey, a famous primatologist and conservationist, and partake in a Dian Fossey hike in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.

The hike to Dian Fossey’s grave begins at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi, where you’ll embark on a trail leading to the Karisoke Research Center.

Initially, you’ll walk outside the park boundary, marked by stone walls protecting human gardens from wildlife.

As you ascend, you’ll follow the same trail used for Mount Bisoke hikes (Bisoke Hike Trail), potentially spotting a gorilla family along the way, although sightings are brief and photography is not permitted.

Throughout your journey, you’ll make frequent stops to admire the breathtaking scenery, capturing photos of notable landmarks.

After approximately 2.9 kilometers, you’ll diverge onto the path leading to Dian Fossey’s grave, nestled near the research center and surrounded by vibrant vegetation.

The area offers stunning views of the Virunga ranges and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

At the gorilla graveyard, you’ll find Dian Fossey’s tomb alongside the gorilla cemetery of her beloved gorilla, Digit, and 19 other gorillas.

You can explore the remnants of Dian Fossey’s home, where she was tragically murdered on Boxing Day of that year by suspected poachers or found dead, and ask your guides about her work and legacy.

A picnic lunch will be served near the site, after which you’ll begin your descent, taking around 1-2 hours to return to the starting point.

Duration Taken to Complete a Dian Fossey Hike

The duration of a Dian Fossey hike varies depending on individual pace and fitness level. Typically, the hike takes around 5-6 hours to complete, covering a distance of 7-8 kilometers (4.3-5 miles) with an elevation gain of approximately 900 feet above sea level.

Here is a breakdown:

• Start with a 30-minute drive from Kinigi, the park headquarters, to the trailhead leading to the Karisoke research camp.
• From there, hike for 10 minutes near the park boundary, taking in the breathtaking views of the forest.
• After a brief rest, continue on a 1.5-3 hour forest hike to reach the iconic tomb.
• The time you can spend at the site is around 30-45 minutes
• Then embark on a descent of approximately 1-2 hours.

It is worth noting that the duration of the hike can be influenced by several factors, including physical fitness level, group pace, time spent exploring the surrounding area, state of hiking trails, and weather conditions.

Therefore, since the hike is moderately challenging, it requires physical and mental preparation.

Other Things to See When on A Dian Fossey Hike in Volcanoes National Park

Besides Fossey’s grave, there are other things you are likely to encounter if lucky when visiting this grave site, such as:

1)   Endangered Mountain Gorillas

Mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park are some of the unique things to see when visiting the Fossey tomb.

They are a subspecies of the eastern gorilla, characterized by their large, robust bodies with thick fur that ranges in color from brown to black.

Adult males, also known as silverbacks, have a distinctive silver saddle-shaped patch on their backs. Males or adult adolescent gorillas, can weigh between 150-220 kg, while females weigh around 100-150 kg. They have broad chests, strong arms, and large hands and feet.

These gentle giants are social animals that live in gorilla groups, called troops, which can consist of 5-30 individuals. Each troop is led by a dominant silverback, who protects and guides the group.

These gorillas are primarily herbivores, feeding on leaves, shoots, and stems of plants, and are intelligent and curious creatures, often displaying playful and gentle behavior.

Gorillas or the great apes, in PNV inhabit the Virunga Mountains, specifically the high-altitude forests between 2,200-4,300 meters above sea level.

The park’s lush vegetation and rugged/difficult terrain provide a suitable natural habitat for these majestic creatures. Unfortunately, mountain gorillas are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List, with an estimated gorilla population of around 1,004 individuals.

Conservation efforts, including habitat protection, research, and tourism (habituating gorillas), are in place to protect these incredible great apes.

2)   Volcanoes National Park

Explore the rest of the park’s diverse landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and volcanic peaks when on a Dian Fossey hike or tomb visit.

Volcanoes National Park is located in northwestern Rwanda, covering an area of approximately 160 square kilometers. The park is home to five of the eight volcanoes of the Virunga Mountains, including Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

It is famous for being home to the critically endangered mountain gorillas, with around 600 individuals living in the park.

The park also provides natural habitat for other wildlife, including golden monkeys, black-fronted duikers, giant forest hogs, bushbucks, spotted hyenas, and African civets.

Visitors to the Fossey Tomb can enjoy activities such as gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, hiking, bird watching, etc.

3)   Karisoke Research Center

The Karisoke Research Center, established by Dr. Dian Fossey in 1967, is a renowned facility in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.

The center researches mountain gorillas, focusing on behavior, ecology, and conservation, and provides critical data for conservation efforts.

Operated by the Fossey Gorilla Fund International, the center is a testament to Fossey’s tireless work and dedication to gorilla conservation.

Visitors to the Fossey tomb can visit the center, but visits may be limited due to its working research facility status.

4)   Other Primates and Wildlife Species

When on a Dian Fossey hike in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, you may spot other fascinating primates, such as golden monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, troops of baboons, etc., that might be seen foraging for food, lazing in the sun or swinging on trees, among other things.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife species, including forest elephants, giant forest hogs, buffaloes, and antelopes such as the bushbuck and the duiker. These can often be seen grazing in the valleys, in the higher-altitude forests (elephants).

Additionally, reptiles and amphibians, such as the three-horned chameleon and the giant frog, can also be spotted in the park when visiting the Fossey tomb.

5)   Unique Bird Species

For bird enthusiasts visiting Dian Fossey’s tomb, Volcanoes National Park is a paradise. The park is home to over 200 bird species, including the majestic grey crowned crane and the rare African broadbill.

Some of the other bird species that can be spotted in the area include the Rwenzori Turaco, Regal Sunbird, Mountain Oriole, Rwenzori Nightjar, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, Yellow-bellied Waxbill, Dusky Crimson-wing, Hadada Ibis, etc.

Additionally, you can also explore;

• Mount Bisoke
• Rwenzori Mountains
• Local Communities
• Musanze Caves
• Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
• Lake Kivu
• Rwandan Genocide Memorials commemorating the 1994 genocide, located in Kinigi and Musanze.
• Nyiragongo Volcano is located just across the border in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Remember to stay with your tour guide and follow park rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Additional experiences and activities to engage in when visiting the Fossey tomb are:

• Gorilla Trekking
• Golden Monkey Tracking
• Volcano Hiking
• Wildlife Viewing
• Rwandan Genocide Memorials visits
• Cultural experiences and tours
• Birdwatching

Consult your safari operator for the best additions and complementary activities to include on your Dian Fossey tomb site visit.

Guidelines For Visiting the Dian Fossey Grave

To ensure a safe and respectful visit to the grave site of Fossey, please follow these guidelines:

• Obtain a permit from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or licensed tour operators, costing $75.
• Hire a certified guide or join a guided tour.
• Maintain a respectful and somber attitude at the gravesite, keeping noise levels down and not littering.
• Be aware of your surroundings, as you may encounter wild animals.
• Take photos responsibly, without disrupting the environment or wildlife.
• Dress modestly, avoiding revealing clothing.
• Bring necessary gear, including comfortable hiking shoes, water, snacks, and sun protection.
• Be prepared for a moderately challenging hike and high altitude.
• Take regular breaks to acclimate.
• Follow all rules and regulations of Volcanoes National Park, including staying on designated trails and not approaching wildlife.
• Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when interacting with local communities.
• Be mindful of your impact on the environment and local communities, striving for responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
• No photography is allowed inside Dian’s grave site itself.
• Check the weather forecast and be prepared for rain or mist.

How To Book A Dian Fossey Hike Safari? 

To go on a Dian Fossey grave hiking safari in Rwanda, here are your options:

1)      Contact tour operators to arrange logistics.

2)      Book a guided tour through Rwanda Parks.

3)      Visit the Volcanoes National Park Office in person and book the safari hike.

4)      Use online booking platforms, researching reputable operators.

It is important to book in advance, especially during peak season (June to September). The hike costs $75 per person, supporting gorilla conservation projects.

How To Get to Dian Fossey’s Tomb Site in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park?

To visit Dian Fossey’s tomb site in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, follow these steps:

• Fly into Kigali International Airport, then take a 2-hour drive to Musanze and finally, a 1-hour drive to the park entrance.
• From there, get permits and get assigned a park guide at the park headquarters in Kinigi, then go for the hike for 2-3 hours to reach the tomb site, accompanied by an armed ranger guide for safety.
• Alternatively, you can use public transportation, rent a car, or book a guided safari package.

Please Note:

1)      If you’re traveling from neighboring countries, you can take a taxi from Kampala, Uganda, to the Cyanika Border Post, cross the border, and find transportation to Musanze.

2)    From the Democratic Republic of Congo, you can take a bus or taxi from Goma to Volcanoes National Park.

Where To Stay When on Dian Fossey Tomb Site Visits and Safaris?

There are several lodges and campsites near the Parc National des Volcans available for a tranquil stay for visitors on Fossey tomb safaris, including:

• Virunga Volcanoes Lodge
• Bisoke Lodge
• Kigali Serena Hotel
• Red Rocks Rwanda
• Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel
• Mountain Gorillas Nest Lodge
• Bisate Lodge
• Virunga Lodge
• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
• Muhabura Hotel
• Kinigi Guesthouse
• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
• Five Volcanoes Boutique Lodge
• One & Only Nyungwe House

Remember to consult your tour operators for the best options available.

Fossey’s Grave Site Visit Costs and Tariffs

Some of the costs involved in Fossey’s grave site visits are:

• Dian Fossey Hike Permit ranges between $50 and $75 per person (foreign residents and non-residents)
• Porters $10
• A Covid test (antigen) is around $5
• A Bus from Kigali to Ruhengeri costs around $2
• Entrance fee (includes entrance, hike, and park rangers) goes for $55-$75 per person
• Other Activities may cost USD1500 for gorilla trekking, USD75 for Bisoke Hikes or Karisimbi hikes, etc

Please note that a Dian Fossey Hike permit is available for purchase on the day of the hike at the park offices.

Best Time to Visit Dian Fossey’s Grave-H2

The best time to visit Dian Fossey’s grave is after your gorilla trekking experience, but if you’re planning to visit Rwanda, consider the peak season from June to September.

These months offer the best weather conditions for hiking and trekking adventures.

However, be aware that the hike can be challenging, especially during the rainy season, and it’s crucial to wear good hiking shoes and dress appropriately.

Additional Points to Note About the Hike Are:

• Hike duration is about 2 hours for someone in good shape
• The hike starts or is usually arranged in the morning hours from 7 am
• Report to the Kinigi Park office in the morning for a briefing by one of the rangers
• The Starting Point is a 30-minute drive to the foot of Mount Bisoke
• Armed Rangers and Porters are available for hire at the starting point; hiring a porter is $10
• A Walking Stick is provided by the chief park guide to help navigate difficult sections

What To Wear for Dian Fossey Grave Visits | Clothing 

When heading for a safari trip at the Fossey tomb, ensure that you wear proper attire suitable for a forest environment, such as:

Please Remember To:

• Dress modestly and respectfully
• Avoid bright colors and loud patterns
• Opt for neutral tones
• Be prepared for mud, slippery trails, and changing weather conditions when on the mountain slopes.

What To Pack for Dian Fossey Grave Site Safaris |Personal Essentials

You should consider some of these personal items when going to visit Fossey’s tomb, such as:

Remember to check with your safari operator for specific packing requirements and recommendations.

Dian Fossey Grave FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can You Visit Dian Fossey’s Grave?

Yes, you can visit Dian Fossey’s grave, located in the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. The grave is situated near her former Karisoke Research Camp, between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi.

The hike to the grave takes around 1-2 hours, depending on your fitness level, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

2. When Was Dian Fossey Buried?

American primatologist Dian Fossey was buried in December 1985, near the gorilla cemetery of her beloved gorillas, including Digit, a silverback gorilla who was killed by poachers.

3. Where Is the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Located?

It is located in various places, including Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

4. How Many Kids Did Dian Fossey Have?

Unfortunately, Dian Fossey did not have any children known.

5. Did Jane Goodall meet Dian Fossey?

Although both were prominent and famous primatologists interested in gorilla conservation, there is no public record of Goodall and Dian Fossey meeting.

6. What Languages Did Dian Fossey Speak?

Dian Fossey spoke English and Kinyarwanda (the local language in Rwanda), according to sources.

Dian Fossey’s grave, nestled in Rwanda’s outstanding Volcanoes National Park, is a moving tribute to her groundbreaking conservation work.

This humbling and significant site honors her unwavering commitment to protecting endangered mountain gorillas and serves as a reminder of her lasting impact on their conservation.

Amidst the park’s breathtaking scenery, Fossey’s grave inspires reverence and admiration for her remarkable life and legacy.

Book your next Rwanda safari today and visit this breathtaking site.