Golden Monkey Tracking in Rwanda

Golden Monkey Tracking in Rwanda is a fascinating and active wildlife experience that allows visitors to search for and observe the rare Golden Monkeys in their natural habitat. These small, agile primates are known for their beautiful golden-orange fur and energetic behavior. Unlike gorillas or chimpanzees, golden monkeys move quickly through the bamboo forest, making the experience lively, exciting, and full of photo opportunities.

This activity takes place in Volcanoes National Park, one of Africa’s most scenic and biologically rich protected areas. Despite being lesser-known than gorilla trekking, Golden Monkey Tracking offers a remarkable experience that perfectly complements a visit to Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.

Golden Monkey Tracking Experience

The adventure begins early in the morning at Kinigi Visitor Centre, the park headquarters. After registration and a briefing from your ranger guide, you’ll be assigned to a small group — with a maximum of 16 participants — and set off into the forest in search of the habituated golden monkey troops.

The minimum age for this activity is 12 years. Once the monkeys are found, visitors are allowed one full hour to watch and photograph them as they jump among the bamboo trees, feed, groom, and interact with one another. Their curiosity often brings them quite close, providing incredible moments for observation and photography.

Golden Monkey Tracking Permits and Prices

The Golden Monkey Tracking Permit in Rwanda includes park entrance fees and guided trekking services.

Permits can be booked in advance through Luxland Africa Vacations

Note: To qualify for resident or citizen rates, you must present proof of residence or a valid work permit (minimum four months). Diplomats with residence visas are also eligible to purchase permits for their spouses or children under the local resident rate.

About Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is Rwanda’s most famous protected area, renowned for its endangered mountain gorillas and spectacular volcanic scenery. The park forms part of the Virunga Massif, a chain of eight volcanoes shared by Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The landscape is characterized by lush montane ecosystems, bamboo forests (a favorite habitat of golden monkeys), open grasslands, heath, and swamp. The park includes several dramatic peaks such as Mount Karisimbi (4,507m) — Rwanda’s highest point  along with Mount Bisoke, Mount Sabinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura.

About the Golden Monkeys (Cercopithecus kandti)

The Golden Monkey is a subspecies of the blue monkey, also known as Sykes’ Monkey, belonging to the Cercopithecus genus. It is native to Central and East Africa and is found mainly in the Virunga and volcanic mountain ranges of Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC — specifically in Volcanoes National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Virunga National Park, and Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

These primates are easily recognized by their bright golden-orange fur on the back and flanks. They live in groups of 3 to 60 individuals, though groups at higher altitudes tend to be smaller. Golden monkeys are social, active, and often seen leaping between bamboo stems in search of food.

Feeding and Behavior

Golden monkeys have a diet dominated by bamboo shoots and leaves, which are abundant year-round. They also feed on fruits, flowers, shrubs, and occasionally insects. During fruiting seasons, they may move to lower altitudes to feed.

At night, they build temporary sleeping sites high up in the bamboo canopy, weaving branches together to form secure resting spots. Interestingly, they often return to the same sleeping area after daily feeding activities.

Scientific Classification

Requirements and Tracking Guidelines

• Arrive at 7:00 AM at the Kinigi Visitor Information Centre for registration and briefing.
• Ensure you have your tracking permit for verification.
• Minimum age for participation is 12 years.
• Carry identification or residence permits if applying for discounted rates.
• Rwandans with foreign spouses or parents, as well as diplomats with valid residence visas, may qualify for local rates under RDB guidelines.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss Golden Monkey Tracking

While gorilla trekking may be the highlight of your Rwandan safari, skipping golden monkey tracking would be a missed opportunity. Watching these lively, colorful primates swing through the bamboo forest is pure joy a refreshing, light-hearted complement to the intensity of gorilla encounters.

Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, nature photographer, or family traveler, Golden Monkey Tracking in Rwanda is a must-do experience that combines conservation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

Plan Your Golden Monkey Tracking with Luxland Africa Vacations

At Luxland Africa Vacations, we arrange fully guided Golden Monkey Tracking Tours in Volcanoes National Park, including permit booking, transport, and accommodation. Combine your tracking adventure with gorilla trekking, volcano hiking, or cultural experiences in the nearby communities for a complete Rwandan safari experience.

Contact us today to plan your tailor-made Golden Monkey Tracking adventure in Rwanda!