The Cost of Golden Monkey Trekking in Rwanda

A golden monkey trekking permit in Rwanda costs $100 per person for foreign non-residents. Foreign residents pay $80, while East African citizens pay $65. This permit covers park fees and ranger services for Volcanoes National Park.

How to Book Golden Monkey Permits in Rwanda

You can book golden monkey permits through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or Iconic Africa Safaris. Unlike gorilla trekking permits, golden monkey permits remain easy to obtain. Even during the high season, permits for golden monkey trekking are available. This makes it a flexible experience for travelers.

The minimum age for golden monkey trekking is 15 years. A maximum of 16 people can trek a single golden monkey group. These treks take place in Volcanoes National Park.

The golden monkey permit includes an expert guide who leads the trek into the rainforest. The guide helps you observe and understand golden monkeys. Two armed rangers will join the trek for security. Your time with the golden monkeys lasts exactly 60 minutes.

The permit does not cover porter fees, meals, snacks, drinking water, or accommodation. You need to plan for these costs separately. These exclusions apply to everything outside the trekking experience.

Important Permit Terms and Conditions

You must use the permit within two years of purchase. If you need to reschedule, you must do so at least seven days before the trekking date. Full payment is required during booking. The RDB does not accept a booking deposit for golden monkey permits.

Before the trek, every visitor must check-in at the park’s visitor center. You need to validate your permit before 7:00 AM. Bring the original copy of the permit or a booking reference number. The validation process happens at the Kiningi visitor center.

Sometimes, rescheduling may be necessary due to changes in your travel plans. The RDB allows rescheduling once within 15 months of the purchase date. You must give a seven-day notice, and rescheduling depends on availability. The RDB management makes the final decision about renewal requests.

Where to Trek Golden Monkeys in Rwanda

Golden monkeys live in the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains. In Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park offers the best chance to see them. You can also trek golden monkeys in Uganda’s Mgahinga National Park and the DRC’s Virunga National Park.

Volcanoes National Park has two habituated golden monkey groups. Each group contains about 80 to 100 monkeys. These groups are ready for daily trekking experiences.

The Golden Monkey Trekking Experience

Golden monkey trekking begins at 8:00 AM in Volcanoes National Park. The trek usually lasts half a day. First, arrive at the briefing point in Kiningi, located outside the park. Here, your guide will provide safety instructions. Two armed rangers will join for your protection.

After the briefing, you will drive to the starting point of the trail. The local guide stays in radio contact with trackers who follow the golden monkeys. The guide will lead you along forest edges and through dense vegetation. Together, you will track the golden monkey group.

When you find the golden monkeys, you can spend one hour with them. At first, the monkeys may jump around in the bamboo trees. After a few minutes, they usually come down to the forest floor. You will have the chance to observe them up close. This experience provides incredible photo opportunities and memories.

Best Time for Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Golden monkey trekking happens all year round. However, the dry seasons offer the best trekking conditions. The dry seasons run from June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails are less muddy and easier to navigate. The weather also stays more predictable.

The wet seasons occur from March to May and October to November. Trekking during these months can be challenging. The trails become slippery, and rain falls frequently. However, the forest remains lush and beautiful. Some travelers enjoy the adventure of trekking in the rain.

How to Reach Volcanoes National Park from Kigali

Volcanoes National Park lies about 116 kilometers from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. The journey takes around 2.5 hours by car. You can hire a private vehicle or join a tour organized by Iconic Africa Safaris.

Start your trip from Kigali and drive north towards Musanze town. The road offers beautiful views of the countryside. After reaching Musanze, continue to the Kiningi visitor center. This center serves as the main entrance to Volcanoes National Park.

Preparing for Golden Monkey Trekking

Proper preparation ensures a successful trekking experience. Wear comfortable hiking boots because the trails can be slippery. Dress in long-sleeved shirts and long trousers to protect against insect bites. Carry a waterproof jacket, especially during the rainy season.

Bring a small backpack with essentials like drinking water, snacks, and a camera. Hiring a porter can help ease the trek. Porters carry your bag and help you navigate challenging sections of the trail. Remember to carry some cash for tips and additional expenses.

The trek takes you through lush bamboo forests filled with beautiful scenery. Along the way, listen to the sounds of birds and other forest creatures. The expert guide will share information about the golden monkeys and the forest ecosystem.

Golden monkeys are playful and energetic. Watch them jump from tree to tree and forage for food on the forest floor. Their vibrant golden fur makes them easy to spot. You will notice their unique features and fascinating behaviors up close.

Conservation Efforts for Golden Monkeys

Golden monkeys face threats like habitat loss and poaching. Volcanoes National Park plays a crucial role in their conservation. By participating in golden monkey trekking, you support these conservation efforts. The fees from permits help fund park protection and community development.

The local communities benefit from tourism through jobs and infrastructure development. Supporting responsible tourism ensures that golden monkeys thrive for future generations.

Why Choose Iconic Africa Safaris

Iconic Africa Safaris offers seamless booking for golden monkey trekking experiences. Their experienced guides provide detailed knowledge about Rwanda’s wildlife and culture. They also offer custom itineraries that include other activities in Volcanoes National Park.

Combining golden monkey trekking with gorilla trekking or cultural tours enhances your Rwandan safari. Iconic Africa Safaris ensures you have a memorable and stress-free adventure.