Age Limit for Golden Monkey Trekking in Rwanda

Age Limit for Golden Monkey Trekking in Rwanda

Are you planning to trek golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park and wondering about the age limit? Golden monkey trekking offers a rare chance to observe these beautiful, endangered creatures in their natural habitat. Volcanoes National Park is the only place in Rwanda where you can experience this adventure. The park has two habituated groups of golden monkeys, each with around 80 individuals, and the number of visitors allowed to trek is not limited.

The trekking experience begins at 7:00 AM with a briefing by park wardens at the headquarters. Afterward, park guides and rangers lead you into the forest to track the monkeys. Depending on their location and movement, the trek can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours. Once you find the golden monkeys, you’ll spend an hour observing them before returning to the park.

Discover Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, known locally as Parc des Volcans or Pariki Yigihugu y’Ibirunga, is located in northeastern Rwanda in Musanze. This park is the only place in Rwanda where you can trek golden monkeys. It’s one of the oldest national parks in Africa and home to a range of primates, including endangered mountain gorillas. Visitors will also encounter many bird species, monkeys, forest hogs, and bushbucks, all thriving in this lush tropical forest.

Volcanoes National Park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, which includes five extinct volcanoes: Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, Mount Karisimbi, and Mount Bisoke. Gorilla tourism has played a significant role in Rwanda’s economic development, attracting visitors from around the world. The park is managed by the Rwanda Development Board, which oversees tourism and conservation efforts. The park also shares borders with Uganda’s Mgahinga National Park and DR Congo’s Virunga National Park, and these countries collaborate to protect the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

Minimum and Maximum Age for Golden Monkey Trekking

The minimum age for golden monkey trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is 12 years. Park authorities strictly enforce this rule, so all trekkers must be at least 12 years old. There is no maximum age for trekking, as long as you’re physically able to handle the hike.

For families traveling with younger children, we offer alternative activities such as nature walks, games, or community visits to keep them entertained while you enjoy your trek. We also encourage clients to provide passport copies to confirm ages when booking permits.

Cost of Golden Monkey Trekking Permits in Rwanda

Golden monkey trekking permits in Rwanda cost USD 100 for non-residents and USD 65 for foreign residents. Unlike gorilla trekking, there’s no limit to the number of participants for golden monkey trekking. The permit allows you to spend one hour with the golden monkeys once they’re found. The monkeys are relatively easy to locate as they often inhabit the bamboo forests at the base of the volcanoes and may also venture into nearby farmlands.

Your trek will be guided by experienced forest guides and armed rangers to ensure your safety throughout the journey.

How to Get to Volcanoes National Park

To trek golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, you’ll need a Rwanda visa, which can be obtained at Kigali International Airport or at land borders for USD 30. The park is about a two-hour drive from Kigali and one hour from the Cyanika border crossing between Uganda and Rwanda. We offer comfortable 4×4 vehicles for our all-inclusive safari packages, ensuring a smooth ride to the park.

For entry to the park, you’ll need a permit for the activity of your choice or park entrance fees. We can customize your trip, and our safaris typically start in Kigali at 8:00 AM.

Where to Stay for Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

We ensure that your accommodation during your golden monkey trekking experience is comfortable, clean, and in a beautiful setting. There are a variety of lodges near Volcanoes National Park, ranging from luxury to budget options:

• Luxury: Bisate Lodge, Virunga Lodge
• Mid-Range: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Lodge, Le Bamboo Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Budget: Kinigi Guesthouse, Hotel Muhabura, Gorilla Volcanoes Lodge

During the high season, accommodations can book up quickly, so it’s essential to reserve your lodge in advance.

Why Book with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in creating unforgettable golden monkey trekking experiences in Rwanda and Uganda. We’re highly rated on TripAdvisor, and we take pride in organizing eco-friendly safaris that preserve biodiversity, conserve wildlife, and uplift local communities. Our safaris go beyond golden monkey trekking, offering a range of adventures including gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, Big Five safaris, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural encounters.

Let us help you plan your perfect African adventure. Contact us today to learn more about the age limit for golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park and how we can create a tailor-made safari just for you.