Dian Fossey was an American primatologist renowned for her remarkable exploration and research of mountain gorillas from 1966 until her untimely death in 1985. For over two decades, she resided in the Virunga mountains, initially observing the great apes and gradually evolving into their companion, guardian, and many would readily call her – a Saviour.
Dian Fossey embarks on an extraordinary journey
It required all of Dian Fossey’s life savings along with a bank loan to turn her lifelong dream of exploring Africa into a reality.
In September 1963, Dian set foot in Kenya. Her journey around Africa took her to Kenya, Tanzania (formerly Tanganyika), Congo (once Zaire), and Zimbabwe (previously Rhodesia). Her guide and host for this thrilling journey was John Alexander, a British hunter. The journey he envisioned featured Tsavo, the largest national park in Africa; the saline lake of Manyara, renowned for its massive gatherings of flamingos; and the Ngorongoro Crater, celebrated for its rich diversity of wildlife.
The last two regions of her journey through Africa would lead Dian to the Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania,
George Schaller’s Observations
This was the remarkable archaeological site of Louis and Mary Leakey. Next, we journeyed to Mt. Mikeno in the Congo, where in 1959, American zoologist Dr. George Schaller embarked on a groundbreaking study of the mountain gorilla. Dr. Schaller was the pioneer who embarked on a groundbreaking field study of the mountain gorillas, and his remarkable efforts laid the foundation for the research that would define Dian Fossey’s extraordinary journey.
Exploring Dr. Louis Leakey: A pivotal moment
“I think it was around this moment that the idea took root in my mind, even if I was not fully aware of it, that I would one day journey back to Africa to explore the mountain gorillas.” — “Gorillas in the Mist”
Meeting Dr. Louis Leakey at Olduvai Gorge marked a significant turning point in Dian Fossey’s journey. As they spent time together, Dr. Leakey shared stories with Dian about Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking work with chimpanzees in Tanzania, which was still in its early stages, just the third year of exploration. He also expressed his conviction about the significance of extended field studies with the great apes.
Dr. Leakey granted Dian the opportunity to explore some freshly unearthed sites during her time at Olduvai Gorge, a location that reveals the earliest traces of human ancestors.
In her thrill, she lost her footing on a steep slope, tumbling onto a freshly unearthed dig and injuring her ankle in the fall. This challenge threatened Dian’s upcoming ascent to encounter mountain gorillas, yet she remained undeterred. Despite her challenging fall, her determination to reach the gorillas grew stronger than ever.
Dr. Louis Leakey
Dr. Louis Leakey
Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania
Olduvai Gorge – Tanzania, a place where the spirit of exploration thrives.
First Encounter with Majestic Gorillas
On Oct. 16, Dian explored the Travellers Rest, a quaint hotel nestled in the heart of rural Uganda, near the majestic Virunga Mountains and the enchanting mountain gorillas. The hotel was owned by Walter Baumgartel, a passionate supporter of gorilla conservation and one of the early visionaries who recognized the positive impact that tourism could have on the region and the protection of mountain gorillas.
Baumgartel introduced Dian to Joan and Alan Root, two wildlife photographers from Kenya, who were on an exciting quest to capture footage of the mountain gorillas for a photographic documentary. The Roots led Dian deep into the forest to seek out gorillas, and when they finally encountered a group, a spark ignited within her – she felt a strong determination to return and study these magnificent beings on her own.
Alan Joan Root
Joan and Alan Root – Explorers of the Wild
Gorilla Encounter
experiences with gorillas
Dian captures this moment in ‘Gorillas in the Mist’:
“Their unique personalities, paired with a gentle shyness, left an unforgettable mark during this initial meeting with the most remarkable of the great apes.” I departed from Kabara with a heavy heart, yet I was certain that I would find my way back to uncover more about the gorillas of the misty peaks.
Following her transformative experience in the Virungas, Dian pressed on with her travels across Africa, spending time with friends in Rhodesia. Upon arriving home in Kentucky, she resumed her work at Kosair Children’s Hospital, determined to repay the loan she had taken to fund her trip to Africa – all the while dreaming of the day she would return to a continent that had stolen her heart.
Dr. Leaky’s Quest
As Dian Fossey embraced her life in Kentucky, she penned and shared a collection of articles and photographs from her remarkable journey through Africa. These would later prove invaluable when a lecture tour led Dr. Louis Leakey to Louisville in the Spring of 1966. Dian attended the lecture and eagerly stood in line to chat with Leakey afterwards. When her moment arrived, she unveiled a glimpse of her published creations.
This piqued his interest, and in the ensuing conversation, Leakey discussed with Dian the prospect of leading an extensive field project to explore the gorillas in Africa. Leakey informed Dian that if she truly wished to engage with the project, she would need to undergo an appendectomy before immersing herself in the gorillas’ environment for extended durations.
Leakys Angels Dian Jane Goodall Birute Galdikas 1024X695 1
Leaky’s ‘Angels’ – Dian Fossey, Jane Goodall, and Birute Galdikas
A few weeks after coming back home from the hospital without her appendix, Dian got a letter from Leakey stating, “Actually, there really isn’t any need for you to have your appendix removed.” That is merely my method of assessing the applicants’ commitment.” Fossey noted that “this was her initial encounter with Dr. Leakey’s distinctive sense of humor and his approach to measuring her determination.”
After several months of effort, Leaky finally managed to secure the necessary funds for the study. Dian made the most of this opportunity, using the money to cover her initial trip to Africa and further her studies. She immersed herself in a “Teach Yourself Swahili” grammar book and delved into George Schaller’s captivating accounts of his field studies with the mountain gorillas. Parting ways with family, friends, and her cherished dogs was a challenging moment:
“I found it impossible to convey to my dogs, friends, or parents the deep urge I felt to journey back to Africa and embark on a long-term study of the gorillas.” Some might see it as fate, while others might view it as troubling. I refer to the unexpected twists in my journey as serendipitous.” — “Gorillas in the Mist”
Just over three years after her initial trip, Dian was once again on her way to Africa, and after arriving in Kenya, she set off for the Congo in an old canvas-topped Land Rover named ‘Lily’. On the journey, Dian paused to explore the Gombe Stream Research Centre, where she had the opportunity to meet Jane Goodall and delve into her fascinating research methods with chimpanzees.
Kabara: The Beginnings (1966/1967)
Dian Fossey
venturing into the heart of the forests in central africa
Kabara Camp
kabara camp
Alan Root journeyed alongside Dian Fossey from Kenya to the Congo, playing a crucial role in securing the essential permits for her work in the Virungas. He also assisted her in enlisting two local men who would remain and collaborate with her at camp. Root utilized his expertise and experience to establish the camp and provided Dian with a quick overview of gorilla tracking. It was just two days after he departed from Camp Kabara that it dawned on Dian how alone she truly was. Before long, her attention would be entirely devoted to following the mountain gorillas.
On her first day of trekking, and after just 10 minutes, Dian was thrilled to spot a solitary male gorilla basking in the sun within a forest clearing. The startled gorilla vanished into the thick foliage as she drew near, yet Dian felt a surge of excitement from the encounter. Shortly thereafter, Senwekwe, a seasoned gorilla tracker who had collaborated with Joan and Alan Root in 1963, joined Dian, and the chances for more sightings brightened.
Senwekwe
Dian’s guide, Senwekwe
Senwekwe was an essential guide in the art of tracking, imparting invaluable knowledge to Dian that shaped her understanding of the wilderness. With his guidance and ample patience, she ultimately discovered three gorilla groups in her research area along the slopes of Mt. Mikeno.
Dian Fossey Embarks on a Journey to Habituate the Gorillas
“The Kabara groups revealed a wealth of knowledge about gorilla behaviour.” From them I discovered the importance of embracing the animals as they are, respecting their boundaries and never exceeding the unique limits they each possess. “Any observer is an intruder in the realm of a wild creature and must keep in mind that the rights of that creature take precedence over human interests.” — “Gorillas in the Mist”
At first, gorillas would dart into the foliage the moment Dian came near. By watching them from afar, she gradually earned their acceptance over time. She eased the gorillas’ tension by mimicking their everyday behaviors, such as scratching, feeding, and echoing their sounds of satisfaction.
Dian started to recognize the unique individuals within each group, much like George Schaller had done in the past. She leaned on the gorillas’ distinct “noseprints” as a key tool for their identification. She sketched the gorillas and their noseprints from afar, gradually honing her skill in identifying individuals among the three distinct groups around Kabara, immersing herself in their behaviour and meticulously documenting daily encounters.
Gorilla Noseprint
Gorillas possess distinctive noseprints that serve as a means to recognize individual members of their species.
The breathtaking scenery of Virunga National Park
Virunga National Park is a place brimming with excitement and exploration.
Journey from Zaire
Dian Fossey dedicated herself wholeheartedly, each day shouldering a pack that weighed more than 10kgs, until circumstances forced her from her camp due to the escalating political turmoil in Congo… A rebellion erupted in the Kivu Province of Zaire, and on 9th July, 1967, she and Senwekwe returned to find armed soldiers ready to “escort” her down the mountain to safety.
Dian spent two weeks under military guard in Rumangabo, Zaire, and on the 26th of July, she skillfully orchestrated her escape. She promised her guards a sum of money if they would escort her on the 50km journey to Kisoro in Uganda, allowing her to officially register “Lily” and then return her safely. The guards, enticed by the promise of financial reward, readily accepted the task of providing escort. Upon arriving in Kisoro, Dian headed directly to the Travellers Rest Hotel, where her friend, Walter Baumgärtel, promptly contacted the Ugandan military. The Zairian soldiers were apprehended, and Dian found herself in a secure place.
In Kisoro, Dian received a caution against returning to Zaire, and following further inquiries in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, she ultimately took a flight back to Nairobi, where she reunited with Dr. Leakey for the first time in seven months. They both chose to disregard the counsel from the U.S. Embassy and Dian would carry on her endeavors in the Rwandan region of the Virungas.
Walter Baumgärtel
Walter Baumgärtel at the Explorers’ Inn
Travellers Rest Hotel
Travellers Rest Hotel in the present time
Establishing the Karisoke Research Centre (1967)
“Over ten years have passed, and as I sit here writing these words at camp, the familiar stretch of alpine meadow unfolds before my desk window.” The thrill I experienced while gazing at the heartland of the Virungas from those lofty heights is as fresh in my memory as if it had just happened moments ago. I have found my place amidst the majestic mountain gorillas.” — “Gorillas in the Mist”
Dian Fossey readily acknowledges the remarkable individuals she encountered throughout her journey, each playing a vital role in the success of her research on mountain gorillas. This became clear once more as she shifted her attention to Volcanoes National Park on the Rwandan side of the Virungas, where she encountered Rosamond Carr, a long-time resident of Rwanda. Rosamond later introduced Dian to Alyette DeMunck, both of whom were well-acquainted with the rich culture and vibrant people of Rwanda. Alyette and Dian quickly forged a strong friendship, with Alyette emerging as one of Dian’s most devoted supporters in the years that followed.
Alyette eagerly volunteered to assist Dian in discovering the perfect location for her new camp and her ongoing exploration of the mountain gorillas in the Virungas. Initially, Dian felt a sense of letdown upon discovering the slopes of Mt. Karisimbi bustling with herds of cattle and numerous indications of poachers. After nearly two weeks of searching, Dian was rewarded when she reached the alpine meadow of Karisimbi, revealing a stunning panorama of the entire Virunga chain of extinct volcanoes unfolding before her.
On September 24, 1967, Dian Fossey founded the Karisoke Research Center — named “Kari” after the first four letters of Mt. Karisimbi, which towered over her camp to the south, and “soke” from the last four letters of Mt. Visoke, whose slopes ascended to the north, right behind the camp.
Karisoke Research Centre
The original Karisoke Research Centre
Mount Karisimbi
Mt Karisimbi
A realm of dedication at Karisoke
Dian encountered a series of thrilling challenges while establishing her camp at Karisoke, particularly following the departure of her friend Alyette. She found herself without an interpreter, communicating solely in Swahili with her Rwandan workers, who primarily spoke Kinyarwanda. Gradually, using expressive hand gestures and animated facial expressions, they discovered a way to connect and share their thoughts.
A second and truly important challenge was earning the “acceptance” of the gorillas in the area, allowing for meaningful research to be conducted nearby. This would call for the gorillas to conquer their timid disposition and inherent, primal apprehension of humans.
George Schaller’s earlier work and book; ‘The Mountain Gorilla’ served as the foundation for the methods Dian would use to acclimate gorillas to her presence, ultimately leading to the successful habituation of six groups of gorillas in the Kabara region and, by 1968, four groups in Karisoke.
Dian employed Schaller’s techniques while also relying on the gorillas’ inherent curiosity during the habituation process. As she moved with a unique gait, her confidence grew, allowing her to approach with surprising ease. The crunch of celery in her hands became an enticing invitation, drawing the curious groups nearer, creating an exhilarating connection in the moment.
Dian Fossey and the Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda
with time and understanding, the gorillas slowly learned to trust Dian
Dian Fossey Among Young Gorillas
joining the family fold
Acquiring Scientific Qualifications
Dian Fossey acknowledged that she never quite felt equipped for the scientific challenges of studying the mountain gorillas, believing she lacked the necessary academic qualifications. In 1970, Dian took a bold step by enrolling in the department of animal behaviour at Darwin College, Cambridge, eager to embark on a journey filled with exploration and discovery. Learning from Dr. Robert Hinde, who was also the mentor of Jane Goodall. Dian journeyed between Cambridge and Africa until 1974, when she earned her Ph.D.
With her degree in hand, she felt a newfound confidence that her work would finally be recognized and respected. This newfound confidence propelled her to pursue her work with vigor, earn respect, and, crucially, attract additional funding.
Safeguarding the Gorillas
“At that moment, I had no idea that by pitching two modest tents in the wild expanse of the Virungas, I was igniting the spark for what would evolve into a globally recognized research station, destined to serve students and scientists from around the world.” — “Gorillas in the Mist”
Trap Set by Poachers
trap set by illegal hunters
As Dian’s accomplishments in research and her acceptance among the mountain gorillas grew more evident, she became increasingly attuned to the dangers posed by poachers and cattle herders threatening their existence. While gorillas were not typically the intended prey, they often found themselves caught in traps meant for different creatures, leading to severe injuries and fatalities.
Dian confronted poachers and the invasion of cattle with her unique tactics: donning masks to intimidate intruders, setting snares ablaze, spray-painting livestock to deter herders from entering the forest park, and sometimes engaging poachers head-on, leading to direct confrontations.
She referred to these strategies as “active conservation,” firmly believing that without prompt and resolute measures, any long-term conservation objectives would be futile, as there would ultimately be no gorillas or anything else remaining to protect.
Dian’s strategies faced resistance from the struggling locals, and the park guards lacked the resources to uphold the laws safeguarding the forest and its creatures. In a bold move, Dian tapped into her own resources to acquire boots, uniforms, food, and even boost the wages of park wardens, inspiring them to take a more vigorous stand against poaching. The initial Karisoke anti-poaching patrols emerged from these efforts, tasked with safeguarding the gorillas within the research area.
Exploring the challenges of poaching in Volcanoes National Park
patrol against poaching in the breathtaking landscapes of Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Dian and Digit
Dian Fossey and Digit
dian with digit
Throughout her years of research, Dian became a genuine companion to the mountain gorillas, forging a special connection with one in particular. He was called ‘Digit’ and was about 5 years old when she first crossed paths with him in 1967. He had a hurt finger on his right hand (thus, the name) and found himself without any companions his age in his circle. They were pulled together by a sense of wonder, and as time passed, a genuine bond blossomed.
Sadly, on Dec. 31, 1977, Digit met his end at the hands of poachers. He met his end bravely, ensuring his group found their way to safety. He faced a harrowing ordeal, enduring numerous stabbings, and his head and hands were tragically severed.
In time, the fate of the group took a somber turn with the passing of the formidable silverback known as ‘Uncle Bert’, leading to the disbandment of this once vibrant troop of gorillas. This all reached a peak with Fossey taking a stand against the poachers.
Bob Campbell, the Adventurous Photographer
Bob Campbell – explorer of the wild through the lens
In 1968, the National Geographic Society dispatched photographer Bob Campbell to capture the essence of Dian’s groundbreaking research. At first, she viewed his arrival as an unwelcome disruption, yet their journey would lead them to a deep friendship. His photographs of Fossey with the mountain gorillas catapulted her into stardom, transforming the perception of these magnificent creatures from the monstrous King Kong image to one of tenderness and compassion, while shining a spotlight on their urgent needs. Digit had taken part in this iconic photo shoot and, as a consequence, had become the park’s official mascot, gracing posters and publications across the globe.
After considerable reflection, Dian harnessed his fame and the impact of his untimely passing to draw attention and support for gorilla conservation, founding the Digit Fund to generate funds for her “active conservation” and anti-poaching efforts. The Digit Fund would eventually take on the name of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International (Fossey Fund).
Dian Fossey’s Mission to Safeguard Gorillas
Dian Fossey passionately advocates for the protection of gorillas.
Dian Fossey: A Companion to Gorillas
Dian Fossey – a genuine companion to gorillas
Endings and Heritage
“When you understand the significance of all existence, you focus less on what has already happened and more on safeguarding what lies ahead.” — “Gorillas in the Mist”
Dian Fossey: Protector of the Gorillas
Dian Fossey – protector of the wild
A few weeks before her 54th birthday, Dian met a tragic end, her body found in her cabin nestled deep within the Rwandan mountains on the morning of Dec. 27, 1985. There were unmistakable signs of a break-in, yet it seemed that theft was not the intention behind it.
The mysteries surrounding Dian Fossey’s murder are numerous and remain unsolved, inviting intrigue and speculation. She found her final resting place in the graveyard behind her cabin at Karisoke, surrounded by her gorilla companions and beside her cherished Digit.
Yet, her legacy continues to thrive, igniting the passion of a new wave of African conservationists, bringing renewed hope to the gorillas. Today, the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International carries on her legacy, inviting tourists to explore the Karisoke Research Centre in Musanze while embarking on thrilling gorilla tracking adventures.
Dian Fossey’s final resting place for gorillas
Dian and Digit found their final peace.
Karisoke Research Centre 2
Gorillas amidst the fog
Dian Fossey dedicated significant time to her research centre in Rwanda, earning herself a notable reputation. To the locals, she was known as ‘Nyiramachabelli’, a Swahili name that roughly translates to “the woman who resides alone on the mountain.”
“Gorillas in the Mist,” published in 1983, chronicles her thrilling years spent in the rainforest alongside the majestic mountain gorillas. Above all, it highlights the necessity for united efforts in preservation. The book garnered incredible acclaim and, much like its cinematic counterpart, continues to be an essential read even now.
Dian Fossey’s Gorillas In The Mist
Gorillas in the Mist Sigourney Weaver
Embarking on a journey to witness the majestic mountain gorillas offers an unparalleled wildlife experience that is truly one-of-a-kind. If you are eager to discover the wonders of Rwanda and Uganda while trekking to encounter these magnificent animals in their wild surroundings, reach out to us and we will turn your dream gorilla trekking experience into a reality.