Best Places for Golden Monkey Tracking in Africa

Prime Destinations for Golden Monkey Tracking in Africa

When it comes to encountering the captivating golden monkeys, Africa’s exclusive offering lies within the Virunga region, nestled between the borders of Rwanda and Uganda. Within this unique habitat, the golden monkeys find their sanctuary, allowing enthusiasts and nature lovers to witness their playful existence. The two premier locations for this remarkable experience are Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Golden Monkey Tracking Expedition:

Engaging in a golden monkey tracking expedition closely parallels the thrill of gorilla and chimpanzee tracking. As you venture into the forest, expect to immerse yourself in the lush surroundings and embark on a captivating journey to locate these endangered primates. Golden monkeys are renowned for their liveliness, perpetually in motion as they navigate the bamboo thickets in pursuit of nourishment. Tracking them requires some effort and agility, but the rewards are unparalleled.

Social and Active Communities:

Golden monkeys reside in tight-knit communities comprising approximately 30 members. These lively creatures exhibit an inclination to explore vast territories within the forest as they forage for sustenance. This distinctive behavior enhances the prospects of spotting these magnificent primates in action, making the golden monkey tracking experience truly exceptional.

Booking Your Golden Monkey Trek:

To embark on this mesmerizing adventure, securing a golden monkey tracking permit is essential. Trek Africa Tours is your trusted partner in obtaining these permits. Simply reach out to us with your preferred dates for this activity in Uganda and Rwanda, and we’ll ensure your access to this unforgettable experience. In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, a golden monkey permit costs USD 100 per person per trek, while in Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the permit fee is USD 60 per person per trek, complemented by a USD 40 fee for National Park entrance.

Enhanced Interaction with Golden Monkeys:

For a deeper connection with these captivating creatures, consider the golden monkey habituation experience in Uganda. This unique opportunity allows you to spend an extended four hours observing the golden monkeys in the company of the Uganda Wildlife Authority research team. As you actively participate in their habituation process, you’ll witness these elusive creatures gradually acclimatize to human presence, a truly enchanting encounter.

Embarking on a Golden Monkey Tracking Adventure:

Your golden monkey tracking day commences with an early morning briefing at the park offices at 7:00 am. During this informative session, you’ll receive valuable insights into the dos and don’ts of tracking these remarkable primates. The duration of this adventure may vary, typically ranging from a minimum of 2 to 4 hours, depending on the location of the golden monkeys or their nesting site from the previous night.

Accessing Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers multiple routes for convenient access. Travelers can opt for a road journey, which takes approximately 9 to 10 hours when departing from Kampala or Entebbe International Airport. Along this scenic route, you’ll have the chance to pause at the Equator line for captivating photography and enjoy a delightful lunch break in Mbarara town. The remainder of the drive immerses you in the verdant landscapes adorned with banana plantations and grazing cattle, ultimately leading to your arrival in the evening.

Alternatively, those with Rwanda in their travel plans can reach Mgahinga National Park via Kigali International Airport. Crossing the border at either Kyanika or Katuna, the journey takes a mere 2 to 3 hours and treats you to picturesque countryside views. For those seeking a faster mode of transportation, domestic flights can be arranged from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kisoro Airstrip. From there, a brief one-hour drive delivers you to the national park’s doorstep, courtesy of Trek Africa Tours.

Reaching Volcanoes National Park:

Volcanoes National Park is conveniently accessible from Kigali, Rwanda. Embark on a 2 to 3-hour drive from Kigali, and before your journey, consider visiting the Genocide Memorial Center, a poignant reminder of Rwanda’s history. Alternatively, if your destination is Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you can transition seamlessly by connecting to either the Kyanika or Katuna border crossings.

Your Safari Planning Experts:

Trek Africa Tours stands as one of Uganda’s premier tour operators, specializing in safaris and tours across the East African region. Contact us for comprehensive information regarding your upcoming safari. We are committed to crafting a personalized and unforgettable adventure that aligns with your interests, schedule, and budget, ensuring an enriching exploration of Uganda and its neighboring countries.