Golden monkey trekking is a unique and exciting wildlife experience that can only be enjoyed in Mgahinga National Park, Uganda. This activity offers an opportunity to explore the lush forests in search of habituated golden monkey families. Unlike the more challenging mountain gorilla trekking, golden monkeys reside in the lower lands of the park, making it a relatively easier trek.

Mgahinga National Park is located in the southwestern part of Uganda, specifically in the Kisoro district. It sits at the border of Uganda, adjacent to the renowned Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Golden monkey trekking is also possible in Kahuzi Biega National Park in the DRC and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Golden monkeys are striking creatures with a distinctive golden-brown coat on their lower body and back. Their unique appearance makes them easy to identify. While they are habituated to human presence, they are known for their playful nature, so don’t expect them to stay in one place for long. These primates primarily feed on bamboo shoots and fruits, and they live in close-knit communities led by an alpha male. During the day, they split into smaller groups to forage for food.

Expectations of the Golden Monkey Trek

Golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga National Park is an adventure that starts early in the morning. The day begins with a briefing by knowledgeable guides at the park headquarters. During the briefing, you’ll learn about what to expect during the trek and the essential rules and regulations that must be followed. After this, trekkers are divided into groups of eight and assigned to a habituated golden monkey family. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you embark on your trek to spend an hour with these captivating monkeys.

The duration of a golden monkey trek can vary, ranging from 1 to 5 hours, depending on the location of the assigned golden monkey family. These creatures are known for their mobility as they constantly move in search of food. One of the most effective ways to locate them is by following the trail of bamboo shoots they leave on the forest floor. Once you find the golden monkeys, each group is allowed to spend an hour observing them, watching them playfully jump from tree to tree, taking photos and videos, and learning about their behavior in their natural habitat.

Golden Monkey Trekking Permit

To participate in golden monkey trekking, you need a trekking permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. These permits are essential and serve as legal documents, allowing you to access the golden monkeys in Mgahinga National Park.

Cost of a Golden Monkey Trek Permit

The cost of golden monkey trek permits varies depending on the category to which a tourist belongs. For East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Sudan), the permit costs 40,000 UGX. Foreign residents are charged $50, while foreign non-residents pay $60 per person. Habituation permits, which allow for more extended interactions with the golden monkeys, come at a higher cost. These permits are priced at 100,000 UGX for East African citizens, $80 for foreign residents, and $100 for foreign non-residents. It’s important to note that the permit cost does not include park entrance fees.

Booking the Golden Monkey Trek Permit

To secure a golden monkey trek permit, it is highly recommended to book directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a reputable tour operator. Booking through reliable sources helps you avoid potential scams. Here’s how the booking process typically works:

1. Contact a trusted tour operator with your preferred golden monkey trekking dates.
2. The operator will check the availability of those dates with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and provide guidance as needed.
3. Once the dates are confirmed, you will be required to make a deposit.
4. After payment confirmation, the tour operator will proceed to purchase the trek permit on your behalf and send you a soft copy for your records.

What Does the Permit Include?

A golden monkey trek permit grants you one hour with the golden monkeys, along with the company of armed rangers and a UWA park guide. It’s essential to note that the permit is valid for the one-hour session with the monkeys and cannot be used for a second visit.

When to Book the Trek Permits

Golden monkey trekking is a highly sought-after activity, especially during the dry seasons, which occur from December to February and June to September. To secure your permits and avoid last-minute disappointment, it is advisable to book your golden monkey trekking permits 3 to 4 months in advance.

What to Pack for a Golden Monkey Safari in Mgahinga National Park

Proper preparation is key to an enjoyable golden monkey trekking experience. To ensure you have everything you need for your adventure, here’s a list of essential items to pack:

• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral colors for protection from the sun, insect bites, and to keep you warm.
• A waterproof rain jacket, even during the dry season, for unpredictable weather.
• Drinking water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
• Insect repellent to shield yourself from insect bites in the jungle.
• A day backpack to carry all your necessary items during the hike.
• Camera equipment, including a camera, extra batteries, a tripod, extra lenses, and lens cleaning materials.
• A flashlight with extra batteries.
• Warm sweaters, thick socks, and trousers to deter insects and keep you warm.
• A walking stick, particularly during the wet season when trek routes can be muddy and slippery.
• Binoculars to enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
• Strong ankle-length hiking boots for comfort and support.
• Sunscreen, a first aid kit, garden gloves for hand protection, a refillable water bottle, and a notebook for recording your observations.

Golden Monkey Trekking Rules and Regulations

The Uganda Wildlife Authority has established rules and regulations to protect the natural habitat of the golden monkeys and ensure the safety and well-being of trekkers. These rules are reiterated during the pre-trek briefing and must be strictly adhered to:

• The minimum trekking age is 12 years.
• Each group is limited to eight members trekking with an assigned golden monkey family.
• Flash photography is prohibited when capturing images of the golden monkeys.
• If you are sick, particularly with flu or cough, you are not allowed to participate in the trek.
• Each group is permitted to spend only one hour with the golden monkeys.
• Silence must be maintained in the presence of the monkeys to avoid agitating them.
• A distance of 7 meters must be maintained, and you should only approach the monkeys if they initiate the approach.
• Littering within the national park is strictly prohibited, and all rubbish must be carried out until you find a designated trash disposal site.
• If nature calls, dig a 30cm hole to use as a toilet and cover it afterward.