Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International (DFGFI)
Retracing Dian Fossey's footsteps:
Download the Travel Itinerary (2012)
Dian Fossey called Rwanda home for nearly two decades. In that time, her pioneering study of the mountain gorilla has forever changed the way in which we view these amazing creatures. Her ground breaking work has brought a great deal of awareness for the plight of the mountain gorilla and it has helped to shape the way in which we study animals in the wild today.
During your visit you have the opportunity to:
Join a trek in search of Rwanda's endangered mountain gorillas and enjoy an up-close encounter with these wonderful creatures.
Visit Dian Fossey's former research centre and her grave, located next to that of Digit her favourite gorilla.
After your expedition we will send you an infant gorilla adoption from DFGFI that includes:
A photo of an infant gorilla and a personalized adoption certificate, both of which are mounted attractively.
An adoption "profile," which is a detailed information sheet written by the DFGFI's field scientists about the particular gorilla adopted.
The latest newsletter from DFGFI, as well as a year's subscription to this fact-filled publication about the gorillas.
A colorful window cling that can be displayed to show support of the gorillas.
Proceeds from adoptions directly support the gorillas monitored by the Karisoke Research Center staff.
DFGFI is dedicated to the conservation and protection of gorillas and their habitat in Africa. Since the death of founder Dr. Dian Fossey in 1985, DFGFI has continued and expanded her pioneering work with endangered gorillas.
In addition, DFGFI now operates programs for education, health and economic development in local African communities. Major activities of DFGFI include:
Daily monitoring, protection and study of the mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans, from the world-renowned Karisoke Research Center, founded by Dian Fossey. The center also operates educational programs, shares its scientific database with scientists and conservationists throughout the world, and provides training in tracking, anti-poaching, research, and other techniques.
Working with a series of community-based preserves and national parks in the Democratic Republic of Congo, to help protect a unique eco-region that is home to the endangered Grauer’s gorilla and many other rare species.
Helping to bring a healthier environment to local communities through health education, medical treatments, clean water, and disease prevention programs.
Supporting special needs of local communities decimated by war, including orphanages, widows’ organizations, women’s business groups, and small-scale economic development.
Providing educational opportunities, programs and resources for local populations.
Itinerary of the Month
Join our Polar Bear expedition astride a snowmobile through a landscape different to any other. The winter sun reflects off the glaciers and the frozen sea. This is what is known as freedom!
Our Awards
Awarded 'Best Adventure Travel Companies' by the editors of National Geographic Adventure 
magazine, with a Guest Satisfaction score of 100%.
Travel Blog
Your online destination for adventure travel - our travel blog features wildlife updates and reports from the field from our African Safaris to our Tribal Expeditions to our Polar Bear tours.
