Book a golden monkey trekking tour in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, for USD 100 per permit and get up close with this beautiful monkey species. Scientifically called Cercopithecus mitis kandti, golden monkeys are only found in the Virunga ranges. This means it is almost impossible to see them outside this region. Like many other primates around the world, this species is endangered, with an estimated population of about 4,000.
As their name suggests, golden monkeys are beautiful creatures with golden-colored fur. They live in groups called troops and have unique behaviors that make them fascinating to watch. Many tourists find them very charming. Golden monkeys are generally peaceful and do not seem to feel uncomfortable around tourists.
Rwanda’s conservation authorities have done an excellent job of protecting them, and these monkeys are a major attraction for many visitors. Golden monkey troops usually consist of up to 100 individuals or fewer. Tracking them is exciting, as their group size makes it manageable. Each troop typically has an alpha male. Within the troops, you will often see mothers with their babies, and their interactions are delightful to observe. Researchers studying conservation also find it easier to track and study specific traits of these monkeys.
Volcanoes National Park is the main habitat for golden monkeys in Rwanda. This park has several volcanic highlands with fertile soil that supports bamboo growth. Golden monkeys rely on bamboo because its young leaves and shoots are a major part of their diet. They also eat bamboo branches, especially the young ones. Because bamboo is so important to golden monkeys, Rwanda’s conservation agencies work to protect the existing bamboo and plant more to sustain the monkey population.
Golden monkeys also live in the forests of Volcanoes National Park, which is part of the larger Virunga region. Golden monkey trekking is a fun activity for most travelers. Given these facts, experiencing it is highly recommended. The trekking permit costs around USD 100. Bamboo usually grows at lower altitudes, which means visitors do not have to do much climbing. The trek is not as challenging as a full hiking experience.
The lower areas of the highlands have easier terrain, making trekking accessible. Unlike other monkey species that migrate often, golden monkeys tend to stay in the same area for longer periods. This makes tracking them easier, as they do not build new nests every day.
Golden monkeys often remain in one area for extended periods, which speeds up tracking. With the help of a park ranger, tracking becomes even easier. Fresh signs of feeding activity provide clues for guided tracking. Trekking sessions begin in the morning, and to ensure easy tracking, there is usually only one session per day.
It is recommended that visitors be at least 12 years old to join the trek. Since the trek can take hours, tourists should bring drinking water. Because Volcanoes National Park is in the tropics, rain can occur unexpectedly. To avoid inconvenience, tourists are advised to carry raincoats.
Golden monkeys are easily found in bamboo plantations. Watching them up close provides great opportunities for photography, as they are not afraid of camera flashes. The experience can last for hours, giving tourists the chance to enjoy watching the monkeys peeling potatoes with their nails and identifying the edible parts.
To enjoy this unforgettable experience, it is important to be physically fit for the long trek.
