Discover the enchanting Rwanda golden monkey trekking experience. Explore the forests and have the chance to observe these rare and agile primates. Rwanda safari holidays offer the perfect opportunity to witness the golden monkeys in their natural habitat. Our guided tours provide an up-close look at the unique behavior and characteristics of these captivating creatures. Book your Rwanda safari vacation to connect with the country’s diverse wildlife and support conservation efforts.
Golden monkeys (Cercopithecus kandti) are an Old World species found exclusively in the Virunga Mountains, which span across Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They’re called “golden” because of the vivid orange fur that covers their backs, arms and legs; their faces, chests and bellies are black.
In Rwanda specifically, golden monkeys live primarily in Volcanoes National Park — home not only to the endangered mountain gorillas usually associated with this park’s name. The 160 sq km area (62 square miles) includes five of eight volcanoes — Karisimbi, Bisoke Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo.
These beautiful creatures like company: With some groups reaching up to 30 members at a time. Led by one dominant male and several adult females who have birthed many offspring amongst themselves, you’ll find them feeding heavily on leaves from trees while they playfully leap between branches.
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), they’re classified as an endangered species. Experts estimate there are between 3k-4k left in total – which isn’t very many! We know humans cause all kinds of problems for nature… so it should come as no surprise that human activity is a major threat to their survival. The biggest issue is the ongoing reduction in habitable space (and in some cases, a complete loss of it) our furry friends are going through as people cut down trees and use the land for things like farming and mining. On top of that, there’s also an illegal wildlife trade to worry about, since monkey meat and body parts are in high demand across central Africa.
Where to go in Rwanda for Golden Monkey Trekking
Golden monkey trekking is done in only one place in Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park. It is located in the northwestern part of the country and it will take you about two to three hours by car from Kigali, the capital city.
There are several areas within the park where golden monkeys can be found but most commonly visited area is Kabatwa which is located near park headquarters. It’s also where treks start and end so if you have some more time after your trek you can also visit Dian Fossey tomb and Karisoke Research Centre that are located there.
Permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) which is the organization that manages national parks and tourism activities. They cost $100 per person, as at 2021, and availability may be limited especially during peak seasons so it’s advisable to book early.
At Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
On the day of your trek, you should report at park headquarters by 7:00am for a briefing. After that visitors are divided into groups of up to 8 people with a guide and trackers then proceed on their treks. The first thing will be driving up to starting points then hike through forest to location where golden monkeys were last seen.
Hiking conditions can be difficult because there could steep slopes trails, dense vegetation in forest or high altitude depending on where monkeys are found. Visitors should expect muddy and slippery conditions especially during rainy season and having sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support is important.
It also requires physical fitness since hiking may take several hours depending on how far monkeys moved from previous location. In order not to get dehydrated bring large amounts of water together with snacks plus since sunburns might also occur sunscreen lotion could help too.
As soon as group of golden monkeys found its when visitors get a chance spend an hour observing them as they feed, groom each other or play from a distance of 7 meters (23 feet). During that time guides and trackers will also explain more about monkeys’ behavior and ecology.
