Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park tracks an endangered primate found only in the bamboo forests of the Virunga Massif, shared between Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It's a shorter, less physically demanding, and considerably less expensive activity than gorilla trekking, and is commonly paired with a gorilla trek on a separate day of the same stay.
Quick facts
- Where: Volcanoes National Park, Virunga Massif bamboo forest
- Duration: Typically 1 hour with the troop, after a shorter approach walk than gorilla trekking
- Group size: Golden monkey troops can number 30–80 individuals, making sightings easier than the smaller gorilla family groups
- Best paired with: A gorilla trek on a separate day of the same Volcanoes National Park stay
Why add golden monkey trekking to your itinerary
Golden monkeys are active, fast-moving, and often easier to observe at close range than gorillas, simply because troop numbers are much larger. The approach walk is generally shorter and less steep than a gorilla trek, making it a good second activity for travellers who want more time in the forest without the full physical demand of a second primate trek on consecutive days.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do golden monkey trekking and gorilla trekking on the same day?
Not typically — most itineraries schedule them on separate days given the early starts and physical demands of both activities.
Is golden monkey trekking available in Uganda too?
Yes, at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, on the Ugandan side of the same Virunga Massif.
Golden monkey trekking is included in our 5 Days Rwanda Luxury Gorilla Safari.