Golden monkey tracking is a popular activity for visitors to Rwanda who are looking for a unique wildlife experience. Golden monkeys are a rare and endangered species that are only found in the Virunga Mountains of East Africa, which includes parts of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Golden monkeys are a subspecies of the Sykes’ monkey, which is a type of old-world monkey that is found in many parts of Africa. However, the golden monkey has a distinctive golden-orange fur that sets it apart from other members of the Sykes’ monkey family. They are a small and agile primate, weighing between 4-12 kilograms (9-26 pounds) and reaching a height of around 50-60 centimeters (20-24 inches) when standing upright.
Visitors to Rwanda can participate in golden monkey tracking at the Volcanoes National Park, which is located in the northern part of the country. The park is home to a population of around 2,500 golden monkeys, which are divided into two groups that are habituated to human presence.
The golden monkey tracking experience is similar to gorilla trekking, which is another popular activity in Rwanda. Visitors are accompanied by trained guides and trackers who lead them through the forest to the location of the golden monkey groups. The guides provide information about the golden monkeys and their behavior, as well as the conservation efforts that are being undertaken to protect their population.
Once the golden monkey group is located, visitors are able to spend up to one hour observing the primates as they move and play in their natural habitat. Golden monkeys are active and playful animals, and visitors may be treated to acrobatic displays and other entertaining behaviors.
The golden monkey tracking experience is suitable for people above 11 years and in the same fitness state for gorilla trekking. The terrain can be steep and slippery, so comfortable and sturdy footwear is recommended. Visitors are also advised to bring waterproof clothing and a hat, as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountainous regions of Rwanda.
Golden monkey tracking is a sustainable and responsible form of tourism that supports conservation efforts in Rwanda. The revenue generated by tourism activities such as golden monkey tracking is used to fund conservation initiatives, such as anti-poaching measures and habitat restoration. Additionally, the presence of tourists in the forest helps to deter illegal activities that threaten the golden monkey population, such as logging and hunting.
In conclusion, golden monkey tracking is a unique and rewarding wildlife experience that allows visitors to observe these rare and endangered primates in their natural habitat. The activity is conducted in a responsible and sustainable manner and supports conservation efforts in Rwanda. Visitors to Rwanda should consider adding golden monkey tracking to their itinerary for a truly unforgettable wildlife experience.