Uganda has a number of endangered wildlife that can be tracked, talk of Mountain Gorillas, chimpanzee, golden monkeys and many others. If your goal is to track unique primate species, Uganda is a must visit. It hosts over 3 unique primates that are hard to be found elsewhere. A primate safari in Uganda allows you to meet golden monkeys in their natural habitat.
The pearl of Africa is one of the few destinations in the world to offer golden monkey trekking in its jungles. Golden monkeys can only be seen in 3 countries; Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic republic of Congo.
Even though Uganda is one of the countries that host golden monkeys, they are not found in every destination but only in Mgahinga gorilla national park. They are known as the golden monkeys due to their outstanding attractive color that is close to gold. They are very playful and move faster so when tracking and meet them be steady and fast.
These unique monkeys are found in the virunga mountain range on the side of Uganda and Rwanda. They normally live in troops (a large number of golden monkeys) and they occupy the lower slopes of the mountains covered with bamboo forest because they feed on the bamboo shoot.
So far there is only one group of Golden monkeys that is habituated in Mgahinga Gorilla national Park and is available for trekking and research purpose. Golden monkey trekking begins at 8am where by you have to be at the starting point earlier for the briefing from the rangers then after you start trekking session to the bamboo forest.
These monkeys are used to people so they are not shy, do not expect them to run away from you, rather they will be joyful to see you by jumping on the tree branches hence entertaining their guests. When you meet these beautiful and unique creatures, you are given not less than one hour to enjoy their movements and also to take pics.
Golden monkey permits in Uganda costs USD 50 Per person and it entitles you one hour however if you are interested in spending more than one hour with them, golden monkey experience is the best option. The permit cost 100 USD and it allows you to spend more time with the golden monkey.
Golden monkey trekking in Uganda will reward you with the view of their beautiful color such as the long golden hair, orange mixed into the long black limbs and this trekking is not as tiresome as trekking the Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi forest because for Golden monkeys they don’t move to far places.
Golden Monkey trekking is an adventurous activity you have to experience on your safari to Uganda because they are rare and elusive. This activity is very interesting and you have to taste it before you go back to the creator.
The endangered golden monkeys in Uganda offer a unique trekking experience. These playful creatures are found in the bamboo forests set high up in the park, so expect a fairly lengthy uphill trek to around 7000 to 9000 feet above sea level to find them. That said, however, it will definitely be worth the effort.