Mountain gorilla mother and infant in misty Rwandan forest
Wildlife Conservation

Every Gorilla Counts.
Every Dollar Protects.

Mountain gorillas are the only great ape species whose numbers are increasing โ€” because people like you stepped up. With only ~1,000 left in the wild, our work is urgent and it's working. 98 cents of every dollar goes directly to conservation.

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~1,000 Mountain Gorillas Remaining
98% Donation Efficiency
+40% Population Growth Since 1989
A gorilla family group in the Virunga Mountains

Our Mission

Protecting gorillas, forests, and the communities that depend on both

Mountain Gorilla Refuge was founded to ensure that mountain gorillas โ€” and the ancient forest ecosystems they inhabit โ€” survive for generations to come. Based in the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC, we work hand-in-hand with local communities, governments, and international conservation bodies.

Our approach is simple: invest every dollar where it counts most. With 98% donation efficiency, we maximize the impact of every contribution. No bloated overhead. No flashy headquarters. Just boots on the ground where gorillas need us.

๐ŸŒฟ Forest Protection

Anti-poaching patrols and habitat monitoring across key gorilla ranges

๐Ÿ”ฌ Scientific Research

Long-term health and population studies informing every decision

๐Ÿ‘ฅ Community Engagement

Local jobs, education, and sustainable livelihoods that replace poaching

๐Ÿฅ Health Monitoring

Veterinary care and disease prevention protecting vulnerable groups

How We Work

Three pillars of lasting conservation

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Habitat Conservation

We protect and restore the montane forests that mountain gorillas call home. Our teams conduct daily patrols, remove snares, and work with communities to prevent encroachment โ€” ensuring gorillas have safe, connected forest corridors.

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Research & Monitoring

Our field researchers track gorilla families daily, collecting data on health, behavior, and population trends. This evidence drives our strategy and helps governments make informed decisions about protected area management.

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Community Partnership

Conservation only works when local people are invested. We create jobs, support schools, and provide clean water โ€” so communities see gorillas as assets, not adversaries. 200+ families depend on us for their livelihoods.

Our Track Record

Numbers that matter

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12,000
Acres of Habitat Protected
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98%
Donation Efficiency
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+40%
Population Growth Since 1989
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200+
Local Jobs Created

Your donation goes further than anywhere else.

98 cents of every dollar goes straight to field conservation โ€” anti-poaching, habitat protection, community programs, and scientific research. We keep our own costs lean so gorillas get the support they need.

Make Your Gift Today
98ยข
per dollar to the field

Join the Effort

Ways to make a difference

Every contribution, no matter the size, pushes us closer to a world where mountain gorillas thrive.

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Volunteer in the Field

Join our team in Rwanda or Uganda as a research assistant or community liaison. Real conservation work, real impact. 3โ€“6 month placements available.

Apply to Volunteer
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Spread the Word

Follow us on social media, share our story, and tell your network. Awareness drives donations, and donations drive survival.

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