A Hidden Gem of Africa’s Forests

Deep within the emerald highlands of East Africa lives one of the continent’s most captivating and endangered primates — the golden monkey (Cercopithecus kandti). With their radiant orange-gold fur shimmering under the forest canopy and their playful curiosity, golden monkeys offer a wildlife encounter that feels truly magical.

Unlike their famous cousins, the mountain gorillas, golden monkeys are smaller, faster, and endlessly energetic. Watching them leap between bamboo stems and chatter among the leaves is like witnessing a live performance of nature’s acrobats. And while gorilla trekking often steals the spotlight, golden monkey tracking remains one of Africa’s most delightful hidden treasures — especially for travelers who crave something different yet equally unforgettable.

At Feather Trail Safaris, we invite you to step off the beaten path and experience this rare encounter for yourself. Our expertly guided tours take you into the misty jungles of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo — the only three places in the world where these beautiful primates are found.

Where to Track Golden Monkeys in Africa

1. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Nestled in Uganda’s southwestern corner, Mgahinga is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, a chain of volcanic mountains that spans Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC. It’s affectionately called “where gold meets silver,” since it’s home to both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

Here, travelers can join a golden monkey tracking experience that starts early in the morning from Ntebeko Visitor Centre. After a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers, you’ll venture into the thick bamboo forests, following trails marked by rustling leaves and high-pitched calls. Within a short time, the forest comes alive with color — flashes of gold and blue darting among the treetops as the troop reveals itself.

The habituated golden monkey group in Mgahinga allows visitors to observe them at close range. You can watch as they feed on bamboo shoots, groom each other, or jump gracefully between branches. The encounter typically lasts about one hour, giving you enough time to take photos and soak in the magic of this unique primate world.

2. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Across the border, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers a similar experience with its own habituated golden monkey groups. The trek begins from Kinigi, the park headquarters, with briefings and ranger assignments much like the gorilla treks. The terrain here is slightly more open and the forest denser in some parts, providing excellent photographic opportunities as the monkeys move through the bamboo canopy.

Volcanoes National Park offers two types of experiences — golden monkey tracking (one hour with the monkeys) and golden monkey habituation (a longer stay that allows more time to observe and understand their behavior). This flexibility makes Rwanda a superb choice for visitors who wish to spend extra time in the forest.

3. Virunga National Park, DRC

For the adventurous, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo completes the trio. Although less visited due to its remoteness, it offers perhaps the most authentic wilderness experience. Here, golden monkeys coexist with other wildlife, and tracking them feels like stepping into a world untouched by modern time. Feather Trail Safaris arranges trips for experienced travelers who crave deeper exploration and the thrill of raw Africa.

Why Golden Monkey Tracking Is So Special

Golden monkeys are endemic to the Albertine Rift — they cannot be found anywhere else on Earth. Their rarity, coupled with their enchanting behavior, makes every encounter deeply rewarding.

Unlike gorillas, golden monkeys live in large, lively troops, sometimes numbering up to 100 individuals. You’ll often hear them before you see them — the forest fills with their calls, chirps, and rustles. They are highly photogenic, with their golden-orange coats contrasting beautifully against the green bamboo backdrop.

These monkeys are also playful and less shy than gorillas, making it easier to observe their interactions — mothers caring for infants, juveniles playing tag, and dominant males keeping order in the troop.

Moreover, golden monkey tracking is a low-impact conservation activity. Your visit directly supports community livelihoods and the protection of their fragile habitat. Every permit purchased helps fund rangers, maintain trails, and strengthen conservation education around the park.

A Typical Golden Monkey Tracking Experience

Your adventure begins early in the morning, usually around 7:00 AM, when the forest is still shrouded in mist. After a short briefing by park rangers, you’ll set off on foot into the bamboo forest. The walk usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on where the troop is feeding that day.

Once you find the monkeys, you’ll have one unforgettable hour with them. Cameras ready, you can watch them munch on bamboo shoots, jump between trees, or even curiously approach your group. The trackers will guide you quietly to maintain a respectful distance while ensuring excellent viewing opportunities.

After the experience, you’ll return to the park base where you’ll receive a certificate — a wonderful memento of your rare encounter.

Best Time for Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkey tracking is available all year round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons:

• June to September

• December to February

During these months, the trails are drier and easier to navigate. However, the forests remain green and full of life even during the rainy season (March–May and October–November), when bamboo shoots — the monkeys’ favorite food — are most abundant.

At Feather Trail Safaris, we tailor your trip to suit your travel dates and preferences. Whether you’re combining golden monkey tracking with gorilla trekking or planning a dedicated primate safari, we ensure everything runs smoothly.

What to Pack for Golden Monkey Tracking

To make the most of your experience, here’s what we recommend bringing:

• Comfortable hiking shoes with good traction

• Long trousers and a long-sleeved shirt to protect from insects and scratches

• Rain jacket or poncho, as the weather can change quickly

• A hat and sunscreen for sunny moments

• Insect repellent and a small first-aid kit

• Camera or smartphone with extra batteries

• A refillable water bottle and light snacks

Your guide from Feather Trail Safaris will brief you the evening before your trek and ensure you’re fully prepared.

Combine Golden Monkey Tracking with Gorilla Trekking

For many travelers, golden monkey tracking is a wonderful complement to mountain gorilla trekking. Since both activities happen within the same regions (Mgahinga or Volcanoes National Park), it’s easy to combine the two. Spending one day with the gorillas and another with the golden monkeys offers a fuller understanding of the primate world and the delicate ecosystems of the Virunga Mountains.

Our Gorilla & Golden Monkey Combo Tours are some of our most popular itineraries. They allow you to enjoy both experiences at a relaxed pace, with comfortable lodges, scenic drives, and cultural encounters in between.

Responsible Travel and Conservation

At Feather Trail Safaris, we believe that tourism should benefit both nature and people. That’s why we partner with local communities and conservation agencies to promote responsible tourism. By joining a golden monkey tracking tour with us, you contribute to:

• Funding park management and ranger salaries

• Supporting local families through community tourism

• Preserving bamboo forests and mountain ecosystems

• Encouraging long-term protection of endangered species

Your visit matters — every step you take helps keep the golden monkeys’ home safe for generations to come.

Why Book with Feather Trail Safaris

When you book your golden monkey tracking experience through Feather Trail Safaris, you get more than just a permit — you get the assurance of seamless planning, expert guidance, and authentic adventure.

Here’s why travelers choose us:

• Tailor-made itineraries — We design tours based on your schedule, interests, and budget.

• Expert local guides — Our guides know the forests intimately and share fascinating insights on primates, birds, and flora.

• Comfortable transport and accommodation — From 4×4 vehicles to cozy lodges, we ensure a smooth journey.

• Reliable support — We handle all logistics, including park permits, border crossings, and airport transfers.

• Commitment to conservation — A portion of our proceeds supports wildlife conservation and community projects.

We understand that every traveler is different — that’s why our approach is always personal, flexible, and detail-oriented.

Golden monkey tracking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines beauty, adventure, and conservation. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone seeking a connection with nature, this encounter will leave you inspired.

The forests of Uganda and Rwanda are waiting — their golden inhabitants leaping among the bamboo, their songs echoing through the mist. Come and experience this wonder with Feather Trail Safaris, where your journey is guided with care, passion, and respect for nature.

Plan Your Adventure Today
Book your golden monkey tracking tour with Feather Trail Safaris and let us take care of every detail.