1 Day Golden Monkey Trekking Safari in Volcanoes National Park
1 Day Golden Monkey Trekking Safari in Volcanoes National Park
TOUR OVERVIEW
This 1 day golden monkey trekking safari takes you into Volcanoes National Park. While Rwanda is famous for mountain gorilla trekking, the park also offers visitors a unique opportunity to track the rare and playful golden monkeys that inhabit the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains.
This short safari is perfect for travelers looking for a rewarding primate adventure while visiting Rwanda. The golden monkey trekking experience is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, bird enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a memorable wildlife encounter within a single day. With expert guides leading the way, visitors can enjoy close-up views of these endangered primates in their natural habitat while exploring one of Africa’s most beautiful national parks.
Volcanoes National Park is home to two habituated golden monkey groups, including one group with over 90 individuals. Once located, visitors are allowed to spend one unforgettable hour observing their fascinating behavior, playful movements, and social interactions.
This 1 day golden monkey trekking safari from Kigali usually begins with an early-morning departure, followed by a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda. Upon arrival, you will meet the park guides for a briefing before entering the bamboo forest in search of the golden monkeys. The trek can involve walking on uneven forest trails, so comfortable hiking shoes, drinking water, and suitable clothing are recommended. After spending an hour observing these lively primates, you will return from the forest and begin the journey back to Kigali. This experience offers a convenient way to discover Rwanda’s remarkable primate wildlife, even when you have limited time in the country.
Destination: Kigali, Volcanoes National Park
Activities: Golden Monkey Trekking
Tour Highlights
- Golden Monkey Trekking
DAY BY DAY
Day 1: Kigali – Golden Monkey Trekking – Return to Kigali
Your safari begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel or residence in Kigali at approximately 6:00 AM. After a brief safari briefing from your guide, you will depart for Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda.
The drive takes about 2.5 hours and offers beautiful views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, rural communities, and agricultural landscapes. Upon arrival at the park headquarters in Kinigi, you will register and join fellow trekkers for a detailed briefing by park rangers about the golden monkey trekking experience, safety guidelines, and conservation efforts.
After the briefing, you will transfer to the trek starting point located on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains. The trek typically takes between 30 minutes and 3 hours depending on the location of the monkey group. The trail passes through scenic bamboo forests where the golden monkeys are commonly found feeding and playing.
Once you locate the monkeys, you will be allowed to spend one full hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watch as they leap through the bamboo, interact with one another, and display their energetic and playful behavior. This is an excellent opportunity for photography and wildlife observation.
After the trek, you will return to the park headquarters and proceed for lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Depending on your available time, you may choose to enjoy an optional cultural visit around the park area before beginning your return journey to Kigali.
Arrive in Kigali in the late afternoon or early evening, where your guide will drop you off at your hotel or preferred location, marking the end of your memorable Golden Monkey Trekking Safari in Rwanda.
Inclusions
- Golden Monkey Trekking Permit
- Return transportation from Kigali in a comfortable safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- Lunch
- Bottled drinking water
- Park ranger services during the trek
- Government taxes and park fees
Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Rwanda visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Accommodation before or after the safari
Destination: Kigali, Volcanoes National Park
Activities: Golden Monkey Trekking
Tour Highlights
- Golden Monkey Trekking
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Fred Byaruhanga
Travel Expert