From 250 to 1,000+
In the 1980s, fewer than 250 mountain gorillas survived. Today, thanks to intensive conservation and tourism revenue, the population exceeds 1,000.
How Tourism Helps
Gorilla trekking permits generate over $40 million annually for Uganda and Rwanda. This funds anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care, and community development programs.
Community Impact
Revenue-sharing programs distribute tourism income to communities living near gorilla habitats. When locals benefit from conservation, poaching declines dramatically.
Responsible Trekking
Rules like maintaining 7-meter distance, limiting groups to 8 visitors, and requiring masks during pandemics protect gorilla health while allowing sustainable tourism.
The Future
Mountain gorillas were recently downlisted from "Critically Endangered" to "Endangered" — a rare conservation success story driven by tourism.