The Dian Fossey tomb hike takes you to the old Karisoke Research Center in Volcanoes National Park, where the American primatologist Dian Fossey studied mountain gorillas for 18 years. She is buried here, beside her favourite gorilla, Digit, and many of the gorillas she knew. The hike costs US$75 for foreign visitors and takes most of a morning.
It is one of the most moving things to do in Rwanda, and a perfect day to add after your gorilla trek.
More in Volcanoes National Park
Dian Fossey tomb hike at a glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Where | Karisoke, in the saddle between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi |
| Altitude | About 3,000 m |
| Permit (foreign visitor) | US$75 per person |
| Minimum age | 15 years |
| Start | 07:00 briefing at the Kinigi park headquarters |
| Getting to the trailhead | About 30 minutes by car from Kinigi |
| Walking time | About 1 to 1.5 hours each way from the park boundary to the grave site; plan on 3 to 4 hours in total |
| Difficulty | Moderate; steep and muddy in places |
Who was Dian Fossey?
Dian Fossey arrived in the Virunga mountains in 1967 and founded the Karisoke Research Center to study mountain gorillas. Her work, and her book Gorillas in the Mist, brought the gorillas to world attention and helped turn the tide against poaching. She was murdered at her camp in 1985 and buried at Karisoke. The camp was abandoned during the unrest of the 1990s; today only the cemetery and traces of the buildings remain. Her research continues through the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
What to expect on the hike
- Briefing at Kinigi at 07:00. Register with your permit and passport.
- Drive to the trailhead. About 30 minutes, then a short walk to the park boundary.
- Climb through the forest. The trail climbs through bamboo and then beautiful Hagenia-Hypericum woodland draped in moss. You may see forest birds, other primates, signs of buffalo or forest elephants and, occasionally, gorillas.
- Karisoke and the cemetery. Your guide tells the story of Fossey’s life and work at the graves of Fossey, Digit and other gorillas.
- Walk back down. You are usually back by early afternoon.
Fitness and what to bring
The hike is moderate, but the altitude and mud make it tiring. A reasonable level of fitness and patience are needed. Bring:
- Waterproof hiking boots and long trousers
- A rain jacket and a warm layer
- Gardening gloves for grabbing roots and branches
- Water, a packed lunch and snacks
- Cash for a porter, who will carry your bag and steady you on slippery sections
See our gorilla trekking fitness guide for tips on preparing for high-altitude hikes.
When to do it
Any time of year. The drier months (June to September and December to February) make the trail easier. The Rwanda Development Board suggests doing the hike the day after your gorilla trek, which is how we usually plan it. See best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
Sample plan
- Day 1: drive from Kigali to Musanze
- Day 2: gorilla trek
- Day 3: Dian Fossey tomb hike, then drive back to Kigali or on to Lake Kivu
We can add the hike to any of our Rwanda gorilla trips, such as the 4-Day Rwanda Culture and Gorillas safari. Browse all Rwanda safaris.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Dian Fossey tomb hike?
About 1 to 1.5 hours each way on foot from the park boundary, after a 30-minute drive from Kinigi. Plan on 3 to 4 hours in total.
How much does the Dian Fossey hike cost?
US$75 per person for foreign visitors, set by the Rwanda Development Board.
Is the Dian Fossey hike difficult?
It is moderate. The trail climbs to about 3,000 m and can be steep and muddy, so a reasonable level of fitness helps.
What is the minimum age for the Dian Fossey hike?
15 years.
Can you see gorillas on the Dian Fossey hike?
Sometimes, but it is not guaranteed. To spend time with gorillas you need a separate gorilla permit.
Last updated: October 2026. Park fees are set by the Rwanda Development Board and can change; we confirm current rates when you book.
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Official sources and further reading
About the author: Victoria Kayaga
Victoria Kayaga is a Ugandan-born safari expert and the founder of Afraeka Adventures, with over 7 years of experience in the East African tourism industry. She specializes in gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris and multi-country itineraries across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania.
