Nestled along the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the mist-shrouded Virunga Mountains rise dramatically from the East African landscape, forming a vital sanctuary for the world's last remaining mountain gorillas. Within Rwanda's section of the Virunga Massif, particularly in Volcanoes National Park,  majestic gorillas find refuge among the bamboo forests and vegetation that blanket the volcanic slopes.
The mountain gorilla population has faced near extinction, with current estimates indicating only about 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild, making them one of the most critically endangered species on Earth. Their fragile habitat forms an ecological island, surrounded by some of Africa's highest human population densities, creating unique conservation challenges in the region.
Daily, dedicated Rwandan trackers, researchers, and anti-poaching units brave dense rainforests to protect these gentle giants, while simultaneously monitoring the rich biodiversity that characterizes this unique East African ecosystem. Their tireless conservation efforts have contributed to a remarkable recovery for a species once on the brink of disappearance.
The legendary primatologist Dian Fossey established her groundbreaking research camp at Karisoke in 1967, where she conducted an intensive 18-year study that transformed our understanding of these remarkable creatures. 
Today, Rwanda's carefully managed gorilla tourism program provides sustainable funding for conservation while allowing visitors the life-changing experience of encountering these extraordinary primates in their natural habitat, creating a model for responsible ecotourism that benefits both wildlife and local communities.