Conservation in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Rwanda’s is a conservation story that’s brimming with excitement. The population of gorillas is thriving, with a remarkable 25 percent increase in Volcanoes National Park over the last ten years. That’s due to the park’s conservation efforts becoming a national priority, featuring enhanced armed protection for the gorillas along with rigorous monitoring and research. Each day, just 80 lucky visitors are allowed to embark on a guided gorilla trek, and additional permits are required for those eager to hike the volcanoes or delve into the caves.
At the heart of conservation in the park are the guides, trackers, and porters, with a significant portion of the funds raised from permits dedicated to training local communities for these vital roles. In past years, tensions arose between wildlife and the nearby communities, with gorillas being a valuable source of bushmeat. However, the thoughtful growth of the tourism sector, supported by the efforts of NGOs such as the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, has opened up a far more sustainable path for livelihoods.