Golden Monkeys are some of the rare primates in Africa and they are found in only two countries in Africa. Uganda and Rwanda are two of the lucky countries in the world that are home to the endangered golden monkey. These rare primates are native to Africa and are found within the Virunga Massif.
They belong to the Old World monkey order and were once thought to be a sub-species of the blue monkey. Their population is estimated to be about 4000-5000 individuals surviving within the Virunga region. Scientifically, the se monkeys are known as Cercopithecus kandti and are differentiated from other species by their golden-orange patches on their backs and flanks.
Golden Monkeys
Where To Find Golden Monkeys
These monkeys are confined to the mountainous forest, near the dense bamboo forest zones. They can live in groups of up to 60 individuals and their diet mainly comprises of young bamboo branches, leaves, shoots, and other plant leaves, fruits and some insects.
Uganda
♦ Golden monkeys tracking takes place in the tropical rainforests of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
♦ There are two habituated golden monkey groups in the park that can be visited.
♦ All treks start in the morning from the park’s headquarters and require no prior booking.
Rwanda
♦ In Rwanda, their tracking takes place in the bamboo forest zones of Volcanoes National Park, situated about 105km (a two to three-hour drive) west of Kigali City.
About Golden Monkey Permits
Where to book permits
Just like gorilla permits, golden monkey permits to trek habituated golden monkey families in Mgahinga National Park are booked through Uganda Wildlife Authority. Unlike gorilla permits where one is requested to book them in advance, golden monkey permits may be booked on ground since there is no minimum numbers required.
Price of the permits
A golden monkey permit to trek golden monkeys in Mgahinga National Park costs USD50 per person and this entitles you one hour with habituated golden monkeys. This includes park entry fees for Mgahinga National Park, a guide who will be with you as well as one hour with golden monkeys. For those who are interested in spending more time with golden monkeys, then you should book golden monkey experience permits instead. Golden monkey experience permits cost USD 50.00 per person and allows you to spend more time with these primate. For more details about golden monkey experience safaris, do contact Us.
Requirements of booking golden monkey permits
Booking golden monkey permits is not as hectic as booking mountain gorilla permits. All you require is to identify yourself either at the park headquarter, pay the fee required for your permit and that’s it. If you so wish, you can do this in advance by paying at Uganda Wildlife Authority park headquarters. Most Tour operators in Uganda organise safaris to Mgahinga National Park including transport, accommodation as well as permits. Kindly contact us for the best price and experience going to Mgahinga
What is Unique About Golden Monkeys
Golden monkeys are unique in appearance. They have an attractive outstanding colour, close to gold, hence the name. They are very playful and move quite fast, so if you want to take pictures you need to make sure you are steady and fast. Most of them are used to humans so they will not run away if they see people.
These monkeys are one more animal you need to see on your Uganda safari adventure. While there are so many other exciting activities such as gorilla trekking, white water rafting, and mountain climbing and so much more, golden monkey tracking is exciting and interesting all on its own.
