Golden Monkey Tracking in Uganda and Rwanda

Deep in the misty forests of the Virunga Mountains and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park lives one of Africa’s most captivating and lesser-known primates the Golden Monkey (Cercopithecus kandti). With their striking orange-golden fur, playful nature, and expressive faces, these endangered monkeys are a delight to watch and photograph. Golden Monkey Tracking offers a unique and rewarding wildlife experience, often overshadowed by gorilla trekking but equally magical in its own right.

Where to Go Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkeys are endemic to the Virunga Conservation Area, which spans Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), and Virunga National Park (DR Congo).

However, the most popular and safest destinations for tracking are:

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Uganda

Located in southwestern Uganda, Mgahinga is the country’s smallest park but one of its most scenic. It lies on the slopes of the Virunga volcanoes including Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo – providing a beautiful backdrop for tracking golden monkeys. Two habituated troops live here, and tracking them allows visitors to observe their playful jumps through bamboo forests as they feed on fruits, bamboo shoots, and insects.

Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park also offers an incredible golden monkey experience. The park’s bamboo zones at the foot of Mount Sabyinyo are home to large groups of these charming primates. The experience is well-organized, with excellent guides who provide insights into their behavior and ecology.

The Golden Monkey Tracking Experience

Tracking golden monkeys begins early in the morning with a briefing at the park headquarters. Experienced guides lead you into the forest in search of the habituated troops.
Unlike gorilla trekking, which can take several hours, golden monkey tracking is generally shorter and less strenuous usually lasting 2 to 4 hours depending on the monkeys’ movements.

Once found, visitors spend up to one hour observing and photographing these agile primates as they leap between bamboo stems and chatter among themselves. Their playful energy, bright colors, and curiosity often make for spectacular photo opportunities.

Permits and Prices

In Uganda (Mgahinga National Park):
Golden Monkey Tracking Permit costs USD 60 per person excluding park entrance fees of US$ 40 per person.
A special Golden Monkey Habituation Experience (which allows more time with the primates) costs USD 100 per person.
In Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park):
Golden Monkey Tracking Permit costs USD 100 per person.

Permits can be arranged through Luxland Africa Vacations or directly from the respective park authorities (UWA in Uganda, RDB in Rwanda).

Best Time to Go

Golden Monkey Tracking is available all year round.
However, the dry seasons — June to September and December to February — offer the best conditions for forest trekking, with clearer trails and less rainfall.
During the wet seasons, the forest is lush and vibrant, perfect for photographers seeking dramatic scenery.

What to Pack

Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts
Garden gloves (for protection from stinging plants)
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Camera with good zoom lens
Refillable water bottle and snacks

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

Golden Monkey Tracking is one of the most enchanting wildlife experiences in East Africa. It combines the excitement of a forest trek with the joy of encountering one of the world’s most beautiful primates.
It’s also an excellent add-on activity to gorilla trekking offering a lighter, more relaxed experience the day before or after visiting the gorillas.

Combine It with Other Adventures

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga or Volcanoes National Park
Cultural Encounters with the Batwa pygmy community
Hiking the Virunga Volcanoes (Mount Sabyinyo, Muhabura, or Bisoke)
Lake Bunyonyi relaxation after your trek

Golden Monkey Tracking is a delightful, eco-friendly adventure for anyone seeking to explore Africa’s rarest primates. Whether in Uganda’s Mgahinga or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable experience that combines nature, photography, and conservation awareness.

At Luxland Africa Vacations, we arrange seamless golden monkey tracking tours from permits to transport, guides, and accommodation ensuring every moment of your primate adventure is memorable and meaningful.