Golden Monkey trekking in Uganda – Meeting the unique primates of Uganda
Golden monkey trekking is an enthralling primate experience in Uganda like mountain gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking. Golden monkey trekking in Uganda is done in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. One might be wondering what golden monkey trekking is! Golden monkey trekking is a safari activity that involves tourists walking on foot in the forests searching for a habituated golden monkey family. Upon encountering these apes, travelers are allowed to spend one hour in their presence. They monitor their behaviors as they dine, play, and mate. It is more like gorilla trekking or chimp tracking but here we are trekking a different primate species.
Golden Monkey trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Golden Monkey trekking and Golden Monkey habituation tours can only be done in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. In East Africa, the activity can also be done in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Mgahinga Gorillas National Park is also known as the place “Where Gold Meets Silver.” The park is famous for being home to some of the world’s elusive species including the endangered mountain gorillas.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in the southwestern part of Uganda covering the district of Kisoro. The park offers a unique habitat for golden monkeys as they fancy bamboo trees, seasonal fruits, flowers, and roots. Golden Monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are Rift Valley endemics. The park is an extension of the great Virunga massif which covers areas of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an engaging activity that involves trekkers walking through the forests. Trekking starts with a briefing at the park headquarters. You are then given a group of fellow trekkers and the trekking starts at about 8:00 am. Following the Gahinga trail, you start your search for these golden apes. These monkeys are noise makers and offer an exceptional safari experience. Upon encountering the golden monkeys, you will spend one hour in their presence. You are allowed to take as many pictures as your camera. You are advised to strictly follow the rules and regulations regarding golden monkey trekking.
For an extended time with the golden monkeys in Uganda, you may take on golden monkey habituation in Mgahinga National Park. The golden monkey habituation involves travelers spending more time in the forests in search of the golden monkeys. This allows you to spend more time with the monkeys and learn about the behavior of these apes.
There are other activities done at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These include; gorilla trekking, gorilla habituation, birding, cycling, and nature walks.
How much is a Golden Monkey trekking permit in Uganda?
A Golden Monkey trekking permit in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park goes for $60 for foreign non-residents, $50 for foreign residents, and Ugx 40,000 for members of the East African Community. On the other hand, a golden monkey habituation permit in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park goes for $100 for foreign non-residents, $80 for foreign residents, and Ugx 100,000 for members of the East African Community.
You are advised to book your Golden Monkey trekking permits in advance to avoid last-minute inconvenience.
What is the equipment for Golden Monkey trekking in Uganda?
Golden monkey trekking in Uganda like any other safari activity requires the right packing items. Here is a list of items that should not be missed on your Golden Monkey trekking safari packing list.
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Water bottle
- Garden gloves
- Mosquito repellant
- Rain jackets
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Energy-giving snacks
- Hiking stick
- A porter to carry your luggage
- A light backpack
- Long-sleeved shirt
Note: Some of these items can be purchased from Ugandan local markets, you may have to just carry cash and buy the items upon arrival.
What is the best time to go for golden monkey trekking in Uganda?
The best time to go for golden monkey trekking or golden monkey habituation is during the dry months of June to September and December to February. During this time, travelers can easily walk the trails of Mgahinga in search of these apes. Additionally, vegetation in the park tends to be less during the dry season hence animal sightings are easy compared to the wet seasons where the forests are full of thickets and undergrowth.
How to book a Golden Monkey trekking permit in Uganda?
Golden Monkey trekking permits can be booked directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) through their phone numbers or email. Alternatively, you may book a golden monkey permit through a reputable safari company. Golden Monkey trekking permits can also be booked at the park headquarters upon arrival.
How to access Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in southwestern Uganda about 8 hours’ drive from Kampala city. The park can be accessed by both air and road means. By road, you can use public means (buses and taxis) from Kampala to Kisoro town. You can also hire a safari vehicle and drive to the park headquarters.
By air, you can fly from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro Airstrip and then connect to the park. Booking your transportation through a reputable tour company is the best way to get to the park.
Where to stay on your Uganda golden monkey trekking safari?
Accommodation in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park ranges from budget to mid-range and then luxury. It all depends on your travel needs and budget. Lodges in the park are strategically located and provide scenic views of the forest and the neighboring areas.
Note: To supplement your golden monkey trekking adventure in Uganda, you may combine it with other popular safari activities like gorilla trekking, wildlife game drives, birding, and boat cruise executions.
Conclusion
if you are seeking a primate adventure beyond gorilla trekking, consider golden monkey trekking in Uganda. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the bamboo forests, witness the vibrant golden monkeys in action, and become a part of the efforts to protect these endangered creatures. Golden monkey trekking is an extraordinary experience that combines wildlife encounters with conservation and sustainable tourism, providing a deeper connection with nature and leaving a positive impact on the environment and local communities.
