Arguably one of the world’s most exciting travel experiences awaits in the tropical rainforests of Central and East Africa– the chance to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas. These amazing creatures, living in the dense jungles of Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda, represent a beacon of hope and a testament to the success of dedicated conservation efforts. This year marks the 30th anniversary of gorilla tourism in Uganda, a milestone achieved through the unwavering commitment of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the support of enthusiastic eco-tourists.
In 1993, the Uganda Parks department took a bold step by opening its doors to tourists seeking encounters with mountain gorillas. The motivation behind this initiative was not just the thrill of encountering these incredible primates up close but also a strategic move to protect the gorillas and their fragile mountain forest environment. At that time, the gorilla population faced numerous threats, including habitat destruction, logging, mining, and poaching. By allowing tourists to witness the beauty and vulnerability of these creatures, the government of Uganda aimed to raise awareness, garner support, and generate funds for their conservation.
The success of this approach has been remarkable. In 1981, when Diane Fossey’s groundbreaking work in the Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda was brought to the world’s attention through the film “Gorillas in the Mist,” only 242 mountain gorillas remained in the wild. By 2018, their numbers had increased to 800, and today, more than a thousand of these gentle giants thrive in their natural habitat. The role of tourism as a potent weapon in the conservation war cannot be overstated, and the focal point in Uganda is the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
