Where Can I See Golden Monkeys in Uganda? The Golden monkeys in Uganda can only be found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park one of the Uganda’s smallest protected areas that lies in southwestern region of Kisoro district and the experience involves moving on foot into the tropical rainforest in search of the habituated golden monkeys and once are located one hour is given to spend with them in their nature inhabitant.
In fact, golden monkey is one of Uganda’s 20 primate’s species, found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park which is part of the Virunga Mountain where it is endemic. More so, the golden monkey species are unique in appearance and have bright colored fur with long golden hair mixed with Orange.
Currently the total number of golden monkeys stands between 2000 and 4000 individual and since they are only found in the Virunga, they have been signified as endangered species. More fact, golden monkey species live in troops of about 100 leads by an Alpha male.
Feeding capacity; They feed on bamboo shoots and other variety of seasonal fruits, bamboo leaves, lichens, sprouts, flowers, leaves and small invertebrates.
Generally, golden monkey experiential tourism allows visitors to the park to have a great insight and proper understanding of what means to research, conserve and protect these endangered species in the 21st century as well as many challenges faced on daily basis by the team out in the field.
One engaging in experiential tourism offers visitors an understanding of why research is of importance and how conservation is a result of what we witness when out in the field. You learn about primate life in the canopy and their habitat. You also get to discover other forest dwelling animals that share their home with the monkeys. Animals like; Duiker, monkeys, chimpanzees, Uganda Kob, Ostrich, Mountain gorillas, birds among others.
Is golden monkey trekking worth it?
In general, golden monkey trekking is quite remarkable experience that takes about 3 to 4 hours half day or you can decide to do a full day activity. Once you allocate them, one hour will be allowed to follow them as you enjoy the thrilling movements of these rare shy monkeys to watch them as they eat, play, rest as well as taking memorable photography and video capturing.
How long does golden monkeys trekking experience take?
Golden monkey experience can take as short as 30 to 1 hours depending on the movement of the monkeys. However, golden monkeys do not move into higher altitudes like gorillas hence giving some challenge of several hours of hiking.
What is the cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda?
The cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda can vary from one tour operators to another and to the status of the visitor.
The foreigner nonresident pays USD60, foreign residents pay USD50 and East Africans pay UGX40,000.
Tourists who prefer to do habituation experience a foreign nonresident is charged USD100 per person per day and a foreign resident pays USD80 and East African citizens pay UGX100,000.
Note; the charges made excludes entrance fees and we advise you the bookings must be done in advice.
Which month is best for gorilla trekking in Uganda?
The best time to visit Uganda golden monkeys is between its two dry seasons; December to February and between June and August. During this time of the year trekking trails can be dry thus a perfect time to see golden monkeys, mountain gorillas and Chimpanzees.
What to carry?
They include; day pack for your lunch in case the trek takes longer than you could imagine.
Carry enough mineral water bottle
Wear long sleeved shirts and trousers
Carry waterproof hiking boots and a good mood
You will be given a walking stick at the meeting point in the park.
Those who are primate lovers just get started now!
