- Where
- Volcanoes National Park
- Duration
- 2–4 hours including one hour with the troop
- Cost
- Permit around US$100
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Minimum age
- Check current RDB rules (typically teenagers and adults)
- Best time
- All year; bamboo shoots in the wet season draw big troops
Why track golden monkeys?
Golden monkeys (Cercopithecus kandti) are found only in a handful of montane forests in the Virunga volcanoes and nearby. With bright orange-gold backs and expressive faces, they are endlessly photogenic, and the habituated troops in Volcanoes National Park can number more than 80 individuals.
What to expect
The trek starts from the Kinigi headquarters with the same morning briefing as gorilla treks. Walks are usually short and on gentler terrain through farmland and into bamboo. Once you reach the troop you have an hour to watch them leap between bamboo stems, feed and squabble. The light in the bamboo is soft and green, so bring a camera that handles low light.
Combining with gorillas
Most of our gorilla itineraries leave a morning free for golden monkeys. The two experiences are very different: gorillas are quiet and intense; golden monkeys are lively and fast. See the 4-day Gorillas & Golden Monkeys Safari.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the golden monkey permit?
Around US$100 per person for foreign visitors. We include it in our itineraries that feature golden monkeys and confirm the current RDB rate when we book.
Is golden monkey tracking hard?
No. It is generally one of the easiest primate treks in Rwanda, suitable for anyone comfortable walking on uneven, sometimes muddy ground for a few hours.
