South African photojournalist Brent Stirton, famous for his work with National Geographic, has released a landmark book: Virunga. This project pays tribute to Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a unique UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is both a sanctuary for mountain gorillas and other endangered species, and an area constantly affected by armed conflict and ecological threats.
A unique testimony
This book is the result of 18 years' work and 13 expeditions carried out by Stirton in one of the world's most complex territories. It contains poignant images: gorillas in their natural environment, orphans taken in by carers, rangers at work, and even scenes of mourning following the tragic deaths of certain iconic animals. Each photo tells a story, where there is both wild beauty and brutal reality.
Between danger and resilience
Virunga is also the story of the men and women who risk their lives to defend biodiversity. Over 240 rangers have been killed in twenty years protecting this territory. But beyond this violence, the book highlights solutions for the future: green energy, sustainable agriculture, local community initiatives. Virunga emerges as a possible model for coexistence between nature and human development.
Why read it?
Because Virunga is not just a book of photos. It is a visual record, a rallying cry to protect nature and a tribute to those who risk their lives for the gorillas and for the planet.
Virunga will be available as of September 2025, and promises to be an essential read for all those interested in photography, the environment and conservation.
Virunga exhibited at Visa pour l'Image 2025
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📖 Order the book: Virunga has been available in bookshops and online since September 2025.
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🦍 Support the park: find out how you can support the work of the rangers and help to protect the gorillas via the Virunga Foundation.
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🌍 Find out more: follow Brent Stirton's work on his official website and explore his other conservation-related projects.
