Game of Thrones star highlights conservation efforts during Uganda trip
Maisie Williams has shared her experience after visiting Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where she encountered endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. The actress, known for her role as Arya Stark in Game of Thrones, described the trek as a moment she will never forget.
A Rare Encounter in Bwindi
Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi is one of the few places on Earth where mountain gorillas still live in their natural habitat. The forest holds nearly half of the world’s remaining population, which stands at just over 1,000 individuals. The only other region where they can be found is the Virunga Mountains.
Williams trekked through dense forest terrain with a small group as part of her role as an ambassador for the World Wide Fund for Nature. During the visit, she observed a habituated gorilla family, including the well-known Rushegura group.
She described the moment she first saw the animals as powerful and deeply moving. Watching them interact in their natural environment, she said, felt different from any wildlife experience she had known before.
A Humbling Experience
Williams spoke about the sense of respect that comes with entering the gorillas’ habitat. She noted that being so close to the animals made it clear that humans are visitors in their space. The encounter left her reflecting on the balance between wildlife tourism and conservation.
Mountain gorillas remain vulnerable despite recent gains in their population. Conservation efforts over the past decades have helped increase their numbers, but the species still depends on active protection to survive.
Supporting Conservation Efforts
During her visit, Williams also promoted WWF’s “Adopt a Gorilla” program, which supports conservation work in the region. The initiative funds habitat protection, anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care, and community programs that link conservation with local livelihoods.
Tourism plays a key role in this system. Gorilla trekking permits contribute directly to conservation funding and support communities living near the park. This approach has helped create incentives to protect wildlife rather than exploit it.
Raising Global Awareness
By sharing her experience, Williams has brought international attention to Uganda’s conservation efforts. Her platform allows her to reach millions of people, many of whom may not be aware of the progress made in protecting mountain gorillas or the challenges that remain.
Her visit also highlights Uganda’s position as a leading destination for wildlife tourism. Encounters like these offer both economic value and a chance to support long-term conservation goals.
A Lasting Impression
Williams described the trek as a rare and meaningful experience that left a strong impression. Her account reflects the impact of seeing mountain gorillas in the wild and the importance of protecting their habitat.
Bwindi continues to stand as a key site for conservation and a reminder of what sustained effort can achieve when governments, communities, and global partners work together.
