Phê Vé
April 20, 2026 • 3 min read
Join us on a journey through David Attenborough's recent filming of gorillas in Rwanda, 50 years after 'Life on Earth'. Discover the stories, current status, and conservation efforts surrounding these magnificent creatures.
The Legacy of Wildlife Documentaries from Life on Earth
When David Attenborough premiered the documentary Life on Earth in 1979, it sparked a new wave in wildlife filmmaking. The film offered an authentic glimpse into nearly 100 different animal species, particularly shedding light on the lives of gorillas in Rwanda.
A Timeless Encounter with Pablo
In episode 12, titled Life in the Trees, Attenborough captured an unforgettable moment when a baby gorilla named Pablo climbed onto him for a cuddle while he was speaking to the camera. This wasn’t just a memorable shot; it symbolized the profound connection between humans and nature.
Returning to Rwanda After 50 Years
Fast forward nearly 50 years, Attenborough is back in Rwanda with a new documentary titled Gorilla Story: Told by David Attenborough. This film promises to unveil fresh stories about today’s gorilla families and how their lives have transformed.
The Production Team
The film is directed by James Reed, known for his work on My Octopus Teacher, alongside producers Amy Thompson and Alastair Fothergill. They have tirelessly worked to capture the most stunning footage of current gorilla families, intertwining memories from 50 years ago.
Exploring the Gorilla Narrative
Alastair Fothergill shares that documenting the story of gorillas is not just about revisiting history but also demonstrating the species' recovery. Before David Attenborough filmed in 1978, there were only around 250 gorillas left. Thanks to conservation efforts, that number has now risen to 600.
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A Challenging Filming Process
The new film involved a demanding shooting schedule of 250 days over two years. Notably, the crew was allowed to film for only one hour each day to minimize disturbance to the gorillas' natural behavior. This patience yielded breathtaking footage that showcases the authentic interactions among the troop members.
Lessons from Nature
David Attenborough emphasized that the communication between humans and gorillas reveals insights far deeper than we might imagine. “Gorillas are gentle and peaceful creatures,” he noted, “so it’s quite unfair that we choose them as symbols of brutality.”
Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
If you're planning to visit Rwanda to experience its natural wonders, keep in mind that a visa is required for entry. Flight prices from Vietnam to Kigali (the capital of Rwanda) typically range from 15 million to 30 million VND, depending on when you book and the airline.
The dry season from June to September is the ideal time to explore Rwanda’s wildlife, as the weather is dry and animals are easier to spot. Don’t forget to secure tickets to visit national parks like Volcanoes National Park, where you can encounter gorilla families. The entrance fee is approximately 1,500,000 VND per person.
Conclusion
Gorilla Story is more than just a film about gorillas; it is a powerful message about conservation and respect for wildlife. Join David Attenborough as he explores the world of gorillas in Rwanda, where the story of Pablo and his descendants continues to unfold.
Article adapted and edited from: Condé Nast Traveler
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