About Golden Monkey Trekking Uganda, Cost, Images and Maps:
Golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park stands as a pinnacle of adventure for those venturing on a Ugandan primate safari. With a mere 3,000 to 4,000 of these endangered species remaining globally, the experience is both rare and rewarding.
The Allure of the Golden Monkey;
These primates, adorned in shades of grey, orange-gold, and black, are a sight to behold. Their vibrant colors, playful antics, and curious nature make them a favorite among wildlife enthusiasts.
Their name – Golden Monkeys is derived from their shimmering golden fur, truly does them justice as they gleam under the canopy of their bamboo forest homes.
Habitat and Behavior of Golden Monkeys:
Golden monkeys predominantly inhabit bamboo forests, feasting on a diet of flowers, leaves, fruits, and sprouts. Unlike their counterparts, mountain gorilla, they remain stationary for longer durations, living in sizable troops under the leadership of an Alpha male.
Location – Where to go for Golden Monkey Trekking?
Golden monkeys in Uganda can only be found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, situated in the western region of Uganda in the Kisoro district, is a prime habitat for these monkeys.
Here, they coexist harmoniously with mountain gorillas, forest elephants, buffaloes, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and other primates. Mgahinga is also known as a place “where Gold Meets Silver” because of silverback mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
Mgahinga is the smallest ark in Uganda is popular for being one of the cheapest places to trek mountain gorillas in East Africa. This is due to its cheaper accommodation facilities and shorter travel distance when you travel from Kigali.
Tracking golden monkeys can be a challenge, given their small size and the absence of noticeable trails or nests. Beyond Uganda, these golden monkeys also grace the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park, and Kahuzi Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Golden Monkey Trekking Experience:
Before embarking on the tracking journey, visitors converge at the park headquarters for a briefing on the guidelines governing the trek. This ensures the safety and well-being of both the visitors and the monkeys.
The golden monkey trekking expedition typically spans less than three hours, but the memories last a lifetime. Upon locating the golden monkeys, visitors are granted an hour to observe and engage with them.
This intimate interaction allows for photography, observation, and a deep appreciation of these primates.
Costs and Permits
Golden monkey trekking permits can be acquired from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (U.W.A), through a local tour operator, or directly at the Ntebeko visitor center in the park.
The Golden monkey permits are priced at $60 for foreign non-residents, $60 for foreign residents, and UGX 40,000 for East African member states.
For enthusiasts desiring extended interaction, golden monkey habituation is available at $140 for foreign non-residents, $110 for foreign residents, and UGX 120,000 for East African citizens.
Booking a Permit
Golden monkey permits, issued by UWA, grant visitors access to observe these primates in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Only individuals aged 15 and above are eligible.
For bookings, one can reach out to us via email or telephone. Direct bookings are also feasible at the UWA offices and at Ntebeko – Mgahinga Park headquarters, given the limited availability, early bookings are recommended.
Guidelines for Golden Monkey Tracking
- The minimum age for golden trekking is 15 years,
- The time limit to stay with the monkeys is 1hour.
- You are not allowed to litter the forest.
- Do not visit when suffering from any communicable disease.
- Do not make noise.
- Flash photography is discouraged.
- Do not mimic nor threaten the primates.
- Human waste should be buried at least 30cm deep.
- Eating in proximity to the monkeys is not allowed.
- Do not lift, carry or dare to play with the young golden monkeys.
Golden Monkey Trekking Packing Essentials
- Insect repellent
- Backpack
- Camera with spare batteries
- Refreshments
- Long-sleeved attire
- Hiking boots
- Waterproof jackets
- Sunglasses and hat
- Relevant travel documents
Accommodation Facilities
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers diverse accommodation options:
- Luxury: Mount Gahinga Lodge, Chameleon Hill Lodge, Gorilla Heights Lodge
- Mid-range: Lake Mutanda Resort, Birdnest
- Budget: Mount Gahinga Rest Camp, Ntebeko River Camp, Amajambere Iwachu.
Best Time for Golden Monkey Tracking
Optimal months for golden monkey tracking span from June to early September and December to January, courtesy of the dry terrain.
However, enthusiasts can pursue this activity year-round, based on personal preference such as bird watching which is cold during the rainy season.
Accessibility
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, nestled in southwestern Uganda, is accessible via road and air. Air travelers can charter flights from Entebbe or Kajjansi to Kisoro airstrip.
Road travelers can traverse from Kampala to Kabale to Kisoro, a journey lasting approximately 8 to 9 hours.
FAQs about Golden Monkey Trekking;
- How do you track golden monkeys?
- Golden monkeys are tracked with the guidance of experienced park rangers who lead groups through the bamboo forests, following subtle signs and sounds.
- Is golden monkey trekking worth it?
- Absolutely! It’s a unique opportunity to witness an endangered species in its natural habitat, offering both adventure and a deeper appreciation for wildlife conservation.
- How much does it cost to trek the golden monkey in Uganda?
- The golden monkey trekking permit costs $60 for foreign non-residents, $50 for foreign residents, and UGX 40,000 for East African member states.
- Where is golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga?
- Golden monkey tracking takes place in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in the Kisoro district of western Uganda.
- How long is the golden monkey Trek in Uganda?
- In Uganda, specifically in the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the golden monkey trek typically lasts between 1 to 4 hours, including the one-hour interaction time.
- How many golden monkeys are left?
- Currently, there are an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 golden monkeys left in the world.
Book a Golden Monkey Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: