Karisoke Research Center : This research center was established in 1967 by the Late Dian Fossey after she had come to Africa for her research about primates and mountain gorillas specifically. Situated close to Volcanoes National Park, Karisoke Research Centre was originally constructed as two small tents but has since expanded into a large international research centre. Because of its advantageous location between the Karisimbi and Bisoke mountains in the Virunga massif, Dian Fossey came up with the name Karisoke.
Born in San Francisco, California, Dian Fossey used her first savings to finance her first safari in Africa and to start a research centre where she planned to investigate the social structure, ecology, and demography of these rare gorilla species. Dian wanted the gorillas to become habituated to her presence, so she became aware during this process that she needed to study each gorilla individually on a daily basis.
As a global icon in primate conservation, Dian is recognized for having rescued a sizable number of gorillas from poachers, brought gorilla habituation to Africa, and established the Karisoke Research Centre to carry on her legacy. It is being used by students and researchers all over the world. Today the research Centre is funded by Dian Fossey Gorilla fund aimed at protecting these endangered species in Volcanoes National Park.
Karisoke Research Centre is very important to Rwanda and Africa in general. It does this by teaching the next generation of global conservation experts, among other things. It offers employment to over 100 people hence income generation resulting to higher standards of leaving. Also, protection of the environment biodiversity because as they protect gorilla habitats, other species that live in the forest such as birds, other mammals, trees, butterflies and other living organisms are also being protected.
Affordable education and community initiatives like building health centers, feeder roads, and safe water projects have all benefited the surrounding communities of this research centre.
The Virunga Mountains’ gorilla population has increased as a result of Dian Fossey’s efforts, and the research center’s current focus is on defending the critically endangered mountain gorillas against poachers and risky activities like firewood collection, forest burning, and other activities that could endanger the gorillas’ lives.
Tourists willing to visit this site normally have to book through the park offices, and it is preferably done after gorilla trekking safari experience. The trek to Dian Fossey graveyard rewards you with sightings and sounds of different primates, birds and flora. The site presents a small museum showcasing videos, conservation lectures and stories about Karisoke research center.
This research centre faced difficulties during the Rwandan civil wars in the 1990s when many of its assets were plundered and destroyed. After suffering significant damage three times, the research centre was moved and rebuilt in Ruhengeri in 1998. It is currently situated in the Musanze area, which is the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund’s newest regional hub.
The research centre carried on after Dian Fossey passed away in 1985, despite a few setbacks. Credits are due to the Rwandan government for its assistance in maintaining peace and security in the nation as well as to the donors who provide funding to support the ongoing conservation efforts intended to save these threatened species.
Best time to visit Karisoke Research Center in Volcanoes national park.
Plan your safari during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to January, when you visit the Karisoke Research Centre. Since the trails are dry and there won’t be much interference from unexpected rains during the March through May and October through November wet seasons, hiking will be easy during this time.
Our knowledgeable staff of travel advisors is prepared to put together the Best safari package for you, including a visit to the Karisoke Research Centre and Rwanda.
