Golden monkey trekking in Rwanda takes place in Volcanoes National Park, where visitors can see the endangered primates in their natural bamboo forest habitat.
travel: jeep from Musanze food: fruits, sandviches and lunch after the trekking including: hiking boots, leg protector, permits
PRICE: 270 USD
travel: car from Musanze food: fruits, sandviches including: permits
PRICE: 210 USD
travel: moto from Musanze food: fruits, biscuits including: permits
While golden monkey trekking is possible year-round, the dry seasons offer the most comfortable conditions.
Dry seasons: June to September and December to February.
Pros: Easier trekking on drier trails and better photography conditions.
Cons: Higher number of visitors and peak season prices.
Wet seasons: March to May and October to November.
Pros: Fewer visitors mean you may have a more private experience, and some accommodations may offer lower prices.
Cons: Trails can be muddy and slippery.
What to expect on the trek
Park headquarters: The trek begins with a briefing at the park headquarters in Kinigi, where you will be assigned to a trekking group.
The hike: Golden monkey troops stay in the bamboo forests at the base of the Virunga volcanoes, meaning the trek is generally shorter and less difficult than a gorilla trek.
The monkeys: You will spend one hour observing the monkeys once they are located. Golden monkeys are lively, fast-moving, and easily recognized by their vibrant orange bodies. Unlike gorillas, they are active creatures, so you will see them playing and leaping between bamboo branches.
