Golden Monkey Trekking in Africa: Best Places, Permits & Tips

Going out to see Golden Monkeys in the wilderness is one of the best wildlife experiences in Africa that is enjoyable and underrated. There are two main locations in Africa where golden monkey trekking is conducted: Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda. 

These National parks are not just safe and well controlled but are also closely affiliated with conservation activities to safeguard the delicate mountain ecosystems. A journey here is not just a chance to see wildlife, but also a lesson that can be learned on how conservation, tourism and local communities co-exist.

Where to Go for Golden Monkey Trekking

These primates are only found in the Virunga Mountains which is the only location on earth. This series of prehistoric volcanoes form a dramatic scenery of cloud forests, bamboo areas and alpine plants.

Trekking in Rwanda

The most well known conservation area in Rwanda is Volcanoes National Park. It has habituated troops of monkeys, known the world over & is also home to the low land gorillas. The park is easily accessible from Kigali thus suitable for tourists who have limited time (short of time).

Trekking in Uganda

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the smallest national park in Uganda and its adventure is rather not very remote. Mgahinga is located along the border with Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo: Wild  & Untamed. Any hiking/trekking in this area means the number of people visiting the region are few therefore offering more intimate authentic & personal experiences with nature.

What to Expect on the Trek

The trek starts early in the morning after being briefed by the rangers. Once in the forest, the group is guided by trackers to the last known place they saw the troop. Usually they are not far away because they can be heard. After being found visitors are only permitted one hour of magic viewing.

Look-out for rapid pace, mischievousness and take lots of photography. These monkeys jump among bamboo canes, brush their backs as they set-out in search of food in the forest. 

Golden Monkey vs Gorilla Trekking

The two experiences are very different although set in similar environments. 

Gorilla trekking can be challenging, and may be filled with heart-wrenching moments, but once in the presence of the Mighty but peaceful giants the feeling is unexplainable. Minimum age restriction for Gorilla trekking is 15yrs.

This distinction renders Golden Monkey trekking the better choice of trekking among families, the elderly, or a couple of people aiming to have supplementary pursuits with gorilla trekking. It is also cheaper and less challenging to get Golden Monkey trekking permits.

Best Time for Trekking

The dry seasons are the most appropriate times to visit; June to September and December to February. The trails are not so muddy and visibility is improved and the conditions of trekking are more comfortable. Nevertheless, Virunga region is open throughout the year and one can easily see them during all seasons since the movement of the monkeys is predictable.

Where to Stay 

• There are accommodation facilities that are available in high end lodging facilities and guesthouses that are affordable. 
• In Rwanda, lodges that surround the Volcanoes National Park are breathtaking in terms of the Volcanoes and top-tier comfort. 
• In Uganda, a more simple yet even more authentic experience can be had in eco-lodges and community-based lodges around Mgahinga. 
• Remaining near the park enables the ability to start early and have easier logistical operations.

Things to Know

• Golden Monkey trekking is a unique and fun wildlife tour.
• The development of treks lasts between 2 and 4 hours and a one-hour observation time.
• It is strongly advisable to book permits in advance.
• Dress in thick clothes and hiking shoes.
• Go with a camera to get the active and colorful Monkeys.
• Can be done by pretty average trekkers.
• Minimum age restriction is 12yrs.

Permits & Costs 

Monkey trekking permits are cheaper compared to the gorilla permits.The Permit fees are also used in conservation programs and community development so that your visit will not be in vain.

Activentures Africa Safaris 6-Day Rwanda Primates Safari, Chimps and Golden Monkeys is an excellent primate adventure trip, which will involve gorilla and monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park and chimps tracking.

The package consists of transportation and a professional guide. Depending on your travel budget prices begin at around USD 2,341 per person.

How to Get a Permit in Uganda

Most tourists will have a mixture of monkey trekking and gorilla trekking. Gorilla permits in Uganda have to be pre-booked either at the Uganda Wildlife Authority or with a licensed tour operator. Booking and making a reservation is recommended &  encouraged to be done several months in advance.

Trekking Tips

• Go on early morning treks to see the Monkeys.
• Be silent and do as your guide tells you to do.
• Bring water and light snacks to keep oneself active.
• Use insect repellent so that you are not bitten by a mosquito.
• Also have your non-flash camera with you to capture all the moments.

Is Golden Monkey Trekking Worth It?

Yes, the trekking is quite worth it as a primate activity which offers distinct and valuable wildlife experience to the travelers. It is also less challenging and a more light-hearted experience in comparison to gorilla trekking. 

Golden monkey trekking permits are cheaper & easier to book + reserve.

The minimum age restriction is 12yrs so can be undertaken as a Family adventure Activity. In addition to the exciting adventure, your trip contributes to conservation and directly to the local groups in the Virunga region.

Conclusion

In addition to the adventure of the trek, golden monkey trekking is an experience that will last long due to the fact that it directly benefits conservation and the local livelihoods. Each permit will conserve the delicate Virunga ecosystem and generate sustainable revenue to the neighboring communities. 

Depending on whether you opt to go to the polished and peaceful park experience of Rwanda or a lesser-known and more tranquil wilderness of Uganda, the trip will give you a better understanding of the lesser-known primates of Africa. It is a humbling experience to end your adventure seeing the monkeys fade into the bamboo forest, but it is also encouraging as it is just the evidence that responsible tourism can really be a solution.