In the dense, misty jungles of Sub-Saharan Africa, an encounter with a silverback gorilla is a life-altering experience. At first glance, these magnificent creatures towering and muscular with a presence that commands awe might seem intimidating. Yet, in their natural habitat, silverbacks and their families display an extraordinary tranquility. Juveniles frolic with innocent curiosity, while adults exude a serene majesty. It’s no surprise that tens of thousands of adventurers flock to Rwanda and Uganda each year to witness these gentle giants.
This incredible opportunity, however, comes at a price. Trekking permits cost $1,500 per day in Rwanda and $800 in Uganda, reflecting the exclusivity and conservation efforts involved in protecting these endangered species. But this high demand for gorilla tourism also brings challenges, particularly the risk of over-tourism and unequal distribution of its economic benefits. Many of the communities closest to these wildlife sanctuaries remain underserved, even as tourism revenues climb.
One man, Praveen Moman, is on a mission to change that narrative. As the founder of Volcanoes Safaris, Moman has revolutionized eco-tourism in the region. Since its inception in 2000, Volcanoes Safaris has been a trailblazer, becoming the first international safari company to bring travelers to Rwanda’s gorillas. Moman’s vision extends beyond showcasing the wonders of the natural world he aims to create a tourism model that enriches both the environment and local communities.
Volcanoes Safaris operates with a philosophy deeply rooted in sustainability and equity. Its lodges, nestled in the high-altitude forests of Rwanda and Uganda, are constructed with local labor and materials, ensuring that the benefits of tourism ripple through nearby communities. Workers are paid above-market wages, and the properties integrate eco-friendly practices such as water recapture systems to minimize waste and conserve resources.
But Moman’s commitment doesn’t stop at eco-friendly hospitality. In 2009, he established the Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust (VSPT), a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving wildlife habitats and improving the lives of those living on their peripheries. Through VSPT, Volcanoes Safaris has launched a series of impactful initiatives. These include donating water tanks to villages, repairing roads to enhance accessibility, and installing solar power systems to provide clean energy. Simultaneously, the trust works on rewilding wetlands and protecting the gorilla and chimpanzee populations that attract visitors from across the globe.
For Moman, responsible tourism is more than a buzzword it’s a guiding principle. “We believe that responsible tourism can be a powerful force for positive change,” he says. His efforts have not gone unnoticed; earlier this year, Moman was named an A-List Travel Advisor by Travel + Leisure for his expertise in chimpanzee and gorilla safaris.
The lodges operated by Volcanoes Safaris are more than just luxurious bases for wildlife enthusiasts; they are gateways to cultural immersion. Guests have the chance to engage with local communities, learning about their traditions and challenges. These interactions foster mutual respect and highlight the interconnectedness of conservation and human development.
As global interest in gorilla trekking continues to grow, the work of Volcanoes Safaris serves as a beacon for sustainable tourism. By balancing the needs of the environment with the aspirations of local communities, Moman has created a model that ensures the long-term survival of the region’s incredible biodiversity. His efforts remind us that meaningful travel is not just about the destinations we explore it’s about leaving them better than we found them.
Through Volcanoes Safaris, visitors don’t just witness the majesty of nature; they become part of a story that safeguards it for generations to come.
