Is Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Worth the Money?

Is Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Worth the Money?

Volcanoes National Park, known as Parc des Volcans in French and Pariki Yigihugu y’ibirunga in Kinyarwanda, is located in the northeastern region of Rwanda. As one of the oldest national parks in Africa, it is home to a variety of endangered primates, including mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, as well as numerous bird species, diverse flora, and a rich cultural heritage. Golden monkey trekking stands out as a premier activity in the park, and many visitors have found it to be a rewarding experience, as reflected in their positive reviews.

Why Golden Monkey Trekking is Worth the Investment

Absolutely, golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park is worth the money! This unique adventure allows travelers to witness these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. The trek typically lasts between 3 to 4 hours—either half a day or a full day—depending on the movement of the monkeys. Once you locate them, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to spend one hour observing their playful behavior, from eating to resting, providing an unforgettable experience.

The Value of Your Investment

Golden monkey trekking has become one of the top activities sought by travelers to Volcanoes National Park, with many describing it as unforgettable, magical, and transformative. The cost for a golden monkey trekking permit is $100 per person per trek. This fee includes park entry and the services of a knowledgeable ranger guide, enhancing your understanding of the endangered golden monkeys and their conservation.

Your contribution also supports the ongoing preservation of these unique primates and their habitat. Without the income generated from golden monkey trekking, the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park would likely face severe threats from encroachment by local communities. The revenue from trekking permits not only aids in conservation efforts but also fosters economic benefits for the local communities, encouraging them to protect the environment.

Cost Breakdown for Golden Monkey Trekking

The overall cost of golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park varies depending on your travel plans, including the number of days spent and your choice of accommodations—whether budget, mid-range, or luxury. The golden monkey trekking permit, priced at $100 for foreign non-residents, grants you the chance to engage with habituated golden monkeys for an hour. In addition to the permit, you’ll need to budget for other expenses, including park entrance fees, transportation, accommodation, and guiding services.

Sample Itineraries for Golden Monkey Trekking

Consider the following popular itineraries for golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park:

• 2-Day Golden Monkey Trekking Adventure
• 3-Day Golden Monkey Trekking Experience

How to Book Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Booking your golden monkey trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park requires a few essential steps to secure your permit. First, make sure you have your travel dates planned. Once you have your dates confirmed, reach out to us via email so we can check the availability of golden monkey trekking permits through the Rwanda Development Board.

Once we confirm that permits are available for your desired dates, we’ll notify you and send an invoice for the permit fees. After you make your payment and it reflects in our account, we’ll promptly purchase your golden monkey permits and send you a scanned copy for your records. This will officially confirm your booking for golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park. We highly recommend booking your permits at least 2-3 months in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly on a first-come, first-served basis.

Best Time for Golden Monkey Trekking

The ideal time to embark on golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park is during the dry seasons, specifically from June to October and December to March. During these months, Rwanda experiences mild rainfall, making trekking through the forests easier. The foliage is less dense, providing better visibility for spotting the golden monkeys, which also makes for stunning photographs.

In contrast, the wet months of April, May, and November see increased vegetation growth, which can obscure views of the monkeys. While the trails can be muddy and slippery during this time, the good news is that the treks are often shorter because the monkeys tend to stay closer to their food sources, making them easier to find. Regardless of the season, golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a well-organized experience, offering a 99% chance of spotting these remarkable creatures year-round.

Accommodation Options for Your Safari

When planning your golden monkey trekking safari, you’ll want comfortable lodging. Some excellent options near Volcanoes National Park include:

• Lebamboo Gorilla Lodge
• Bisate Lodge
• Gorilla Nest Lodge

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Golden Monkey Trekking Experience?

Trek Africa Expeditions is renowned for organizing exceptional safari experiences in Uganda and Rwanda. We have received high ratings and positive reviews on TripAdvisor for our commitment to providing eco-friendly adventures that preserve biodiversity and support local communities.

Our tours often combine golden monkey trekking with other activities, such as chimpanzee trekking, Big Five safaris, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural encounters. We strive to create unforgettable African safari experiences in popular destinations like Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

For a memorable adventure that benefits both you and the environment, feel free to reach out to us!