Visit Rwanda
Trace the origins of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund’s work and visit magnificent mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Seeing the gorillas will be an experience you’ll cherish forever. And there’s lots more to do while you are in Rwanda, including a trek to Fossey’s gravesite, or visiting golden monkeys and other national parks.
Visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
The Ellen Campus is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last entry at 4 p.m.) with several options for visiting.
Campus Tour Options:
Self-guided tour:
Learn all about the gorillas we’ve studied for more than five decades and the current conservation efforts to ensure their future. Special features include a replica of Dian Fossey’s forest cabin and original artifacts from her work and life, a 360-degree theater featuring amazing footage of the gorillas, and a virtual reality experience.
Pre-booking is not required for a self-guided tour. A suggested donation of $20 per adult is requested for non-Rwandan visitors. All donations go directly toward supporting the Fossey Fund’s conservation work. Registration and donation can be done online in advance, or upon entry.
Behind-the-scenes VIP tours:
Embark on an private guided tour led by a senior staff member of the Fossey Fund. During this 1.5-hour visit, you’ll immerse yourself in our exhibits, enhanced by captivating stories and first-hand accounts. Additionally, you’ll have the unique opportunity to go behind the scenes, see our scientists in action and get a firsthand look at our real-time research focused on gorilla physiology and biodiversity studies.
Behind-the-scenes tours are available on weekdays and require pre-booking at least 24 hours in advance. There is a fee of $800* per group with a maximum of 20 guests per group. Tours are available starting at 9 a.m. with the last tour starting at 3 p.m. Cancellations within 24 hours of the event are non-refundable.
Silverback Sundowner:
Immerse yourself in a unique and enchanting evening gathering, surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of nearby Volcanoes National Park. As the mist gracefully envelops the majestic volcanoes, creating an ethereal atmosphere, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views that evolve with the changing hues of the sunset. This intimate setting provides a rare opportunity to engage directly with those dedicated to gorilla conservation, gaining valuable insights into their work. Light refreshments complement the serene ambiance, making this event a memorable blend of natural beauty, conservation knowledge, and personal connections. Before the gathering, guests are encouraged to explore the public exhibits, enhancing the overall experience.
Silverback Sundowners are available on weekdays and require pre-booking at least 24 hours in advance. They can be scheduled from 4-5 p.m. or from 5-6 p.m. A cost of $100* per person is required, with a minimum fee of $500*. Maximum group size of 30 guests. Cancellations within 24 hours of the event are non-refundable.
All bookings are non-refundable but can be rescheduled with at least 24 hours notice.
*Pricing Effective January 1, 2025:
Silverback Sundowners Experience:
$1,000 up to 5 people, $100 per additional person for up to a maximum of 30 people.
VIP Behind the Scenes Tour:
$800 up to 5 people, $100 per additional person up to a maximum of 10 people. Contact the gallery team for large-group pricing.
Recommended Donation for self-guided visits: $20 per person
Visits to the gallery are free for Rwandan citizens.
Preferred Travel Partnerships
Preferred travel partners of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund receive exclusive benefits, including priority access to the campus as well as marketing and promotional opportunities to the Fossey Fund’s more than 1 million followers on social media and direct supporters.
To become a preferred travel partner of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, an annual donation of $15,000 is required as well as a signed partnership agreement.
For more information on how to become a preferred travel partner, please contact Megan Golder
Our Preferred Travel Partners
Extraordinary Journeys
Luxury Travel for the Wild at Heart
Extraordinary Journeys, founded in 2008, believes that travel, when done right, has the power to be a transformative force for good. With roots dating back over 50 years in East Africa, this family-owned company maintains a deep connection to the continent. Established by a passionate mother-daughter team and operated by an all-female staff, Extraordinary Journeys sets itself apart with a commitment to ensuring that each client’s journey not only enriches their own life but also has a positive impact on the destinations they visit.
Specializing in sustainable luxury travel, Extraordinary Journeys offers elevated wildlife encounters, immersive cultural experiences, community-centered projects, distinctive culinary adventures, and active and off-the-beaten-path explorations. In Rwanda, the on-the-ground team arranges experiences such as personally guided, multi-day treks in Nyungwe Forest National Park, exclusive access to experiences and conservation professionals in Volcanoes National Park, and curated culinary and fashion tours led by the country’s top chefs and designers. Extraordinary Journeys provides insights on the best places to stay, eat, drink, and explore, fostering meaningful connections with the people, culture, wildlife, and landscapes of Rwanda. We also curate trips to other parts of East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya.
Their dedicated team believes in ever-so-gently encouraging clients to venture just a step outside their comfort zone—because that’s where the magic happens.
Contact Extraordinary Journeys
General Travel Information
To find out more about accommodations, gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, and a trek to Dian Fossey’s gravesite, visit: https://www.volcanoesnationalparkrwanda.com/
To book a gorilla trek permit, visit: https://www.visitrwanda.com/destinations/volcanoes-national-park/
Please note, the Fossey Fund is unable to book a permit on your behalf. Traveling with a group of six or more? Email us for more information and custom itineraries.