Golden monkey tracking is a guided wildlife activity that involves walking through the forests of the Virunga Mountains to find and observe golden monkeys in their natural habitat. The monkeys are known for their golden-orange fur and are found only in the Virunga region of Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In Uganda, golden monkey tracking is carried out in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In Rwanda, the activity takes place in Volcanoes National Park. Both parks form part of the wider Virunga ecosystem.
How golden monkey tracking is carried out
Golden monkey tracking involves following a habituated group of monkeys through the forest. Visitors are accompanied by trained guides and trackers who look for signs that show where the animals are feeding or moving. The activity normally starts with a briefing before visitors enter the forest. The guides explain the rules and lead the group along the forest trails.
Golden monkeys are active animals and can move quickly through bamboo and trees. Visitors may therefore need to walk for some time before finding the group. Once the monkeys are located, the group follows them while keeping the required distance. The length of the trek depends on the location of the monkeys and the condition of the trails. Rain can also affect the walking conditions especially in the mountain forests.
Where can you track golden monkeys
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda’s main destination for golden monkey tracking. It is located in southwestern Uganda in Kisoro District and forms part of the Virunga Mountains. The park protects several habitats including bamboo forests where golden monkeys spend much of their time. Visitors can track habituated groups with the help of park guides and trackers.
Mgahinga also offers a golden monkey habituation experience. This is different from normal tracking because visitors spend more time with researchers and conservation staff observing groups that are still becoming accustomed to human presence. Golden monkey tracking can also be combined with other activities in Mgahinga including gorilla trekking and hiking the Virunga volcanoes.
Volcanoes National Park
In Rwanda, golden monkey tracking takes place in Volcanoes National Park in the northern part of the country. The park is part of the Virunga mountain range and protects forests around several volcanic mountains. Golden monkeys live in the bamboo and forest zones of the park.
Rwanda has habituated golden monkey groups that are available for tourism. Tracking usually starts in the morning after visitors receive a briefing at the park headquarters in Kinigi.
The activity involves walking through forest trails while guides and trackers locate the monkeys. Because the animals move through the vegetation, visitors may need to follow them as they feed and move between trees and bamboo.
How many golden monkeys are in the wild
Golden monkeys are restricted to a small area of the Virunga Mountains. Their population is much smaller than that of many widespread monkey species. Uganda Wildlife Authority estimates the population at around 2,000 to 4,000 golden monkeys.
The species is classified as Endangered. Its restricted range means that the loss of forest habitat can have a direct effect on the population. Because the monkeys occur across national borders, conservation requires cooperation between Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
What makes golden monkeys special
Golden monkeys are recognised by their bright golden-orange coat which makes them different from many other primates found in the region. They are endemic to the Virunga Mountains meaning their natural range is limited to this area.
Golden monkeys mainly feed on plants. Their diet includes bamboo shoots, bamboo leaves, fruits, flowers, leaves and other vegetation. They may also eat small invertebrates. They live in social groups and spend much of their time moving through trees, bamboo and other vegetation.
Golden monkey tracking and habituation
Uganda provides both normal golden monkey tracking and a golden monkey habituation experience. During normal tracking, visitors follow a habituated group and spend a limited period observing the animals.
The habituation experience provides more time in the forest. Visitors accompany researchers and habituation teams as they observe monkeys that are gradually becoming comfortable around people. This option is useful for visitors who want to learn more about golden monkey behavior, research and the habituation process.
How to Get a Golden Monkey Permit in Uganda
Visitors need a permit to take part in golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
The permit can be arranged through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or an authorised tour operator. Visitors should provide their preferred travel date and confirm availability before making payment.
It is advisable to book in advance, especially during busy travel periods. Visitors should also use official payment channels and keep their permit confirmation.
The permit covers the tracking activity but other costs, such as transport, accommodation and some park fees, may be charged separately.
Golden Monkey permit cost
The golden monkey permit cost in Uganda depends on the visitor’s nationality and the type of experience chosen. Golden monkey tracking and the golden monkey habituation experience have different fees. For the UWA tariff covering July 2024 to June 2026, the standard golden monkey tracking permit in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park costs
- Foreign non-residents: USD 60 per person
- Foreign residents: USD 50 per person
- East African Community citizens: UGX 40,000 per person
The golden monkey habituation experience costs
- Foreign non-residents: USD 100 per person
- Foreign residents: USD 80 per person
- East African Community citizens: UGX 100,000 per person
In Rwanda, the permit cost varies according to nationality and residency. The foreign visitor rate is USD 100 per person, while different rates apply to Rwandan citizens, East African citizens and foreign residents. The minimum age for golden monkey tracking in Rwanda is 12 years and visitors should report for registration and briefing before entering the forest.
These fees cover the respective activities and do not include all other safari expenses such as accommodation, transport and meals.
Best time for golden monkey tracking
Golden monkey tracking is available throughout the year in both Uganda and Rwanda. The drier months are generally easier for walking because the trails are less likely to be muddy. In southwestern Uganda, June to August and December to February are generally among the drier periods.
The mountain forests can receive rain at any time of the year. Visitors should therefore carry waterproof clothing even when travelling during a dry period. The wet season does not stop golden monkey tracking. However, muddy and slippery trails can make walking more difficult.
What to pack for golden monkey tracking
Golden monkey tracking takes place in mountainous forests where trails can be steep, wet and uneven. Visitors should consider packing
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Long trousers
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Waterproof jacket or poncho
- Gaiters
- Lightweight gloves
- Hat or cap
- Insect repellent
- Drinking water
- Small backpack
- Camera and spare batteries
- Walking stick if needed
- Personal medication
It is better to carry only what is needed because the activity involves walking through the forest.
Golden monkey trekking rules
Visitors are expected to follow the instructions of guides and park staff throughout the activity. Some rules include
- Keep the recommended distance from the monkeys.
- Do not touch or feed the animals.
- Avoid making unnecessary noise.
- Do not leave rubbish in the forest.
- Stay with the authorised group.
- Follow the guide when the monkeys move.
- Avoid tracking when suffering from an infectious illness.
- Do not use flash photography where it is prohibited or discouraged.
- Remain on approved trails.
These rules help reduce disturbance and limit the risk of disease transmission between people and wildlife.
Uganda or Rwanda for golden monkey tracking
Both countries offer opportunities to see golden monkeys in the Virunga Mountains. Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a suitable choice for travellers who want to combine golden monkey tracking with gorilla trekking or volcano hiking. Uganda also offers the golden monkey habituation experience.
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is another destination for the species. Golden monkey tracking can be included in a Rwanda safari together with gorilla trekking and hiking in the Virunga volcanoes. The choice can depend on the rest of the safari, travel route, permit costs and other activities planned.