If your interest is Gorillas and Golden monkeys, this 3 Day Gorillas and Golden Monkeys Rwanda Tour is the best for you. It starts in Kigali to Volcanoes National Park and then back to Kigali.
Day 1: Arrival – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
On arrival, you will be picked up by our Safari guide from Kigali airport, meet and greet – and later transfer up to Kigali city for a stopover.
If you arrive early in the morning, you can do a city tour around Kigali and after embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking.
Have your morning breakfast, before you start a drive to the starting point. After briefing, the journey to the Jungle starts in a group following the permanently established trails. The group usually consist of eight tourists and a park ranger guide.
You will wander in the Jungle until you locate the Gorilla family you are tracing. One hour is allowed while in the presence of Mountain Gorillas. After you will start the Journey back to create more room for the apes to continue with their day-to-day work.
Day 3: Golden monkey tracking – Transfer back to Kigali.
Golden monkeys are species of the Old-world monkey family and one of the reasons for a trip to Volcanoes. Early in the morning, you will transfer to the park headquarters for the briefing conducted.
Later, you start a journey to the jungle in search of these primates. After locating them, you will be allowed in their presence for some time – see them feeding, swinging in the tree branches, playing and more.
After the session, you will return to the lodge for lunch and some rest as you prepare for the drive back to Kigali. Drop off at the airport for return flight or hotel for overnight stay.
The 3 Day Gorillas and Golden Monkeys Rwanda Tour includes;
- Gorilla Permits
- Park Ranger Fees
- Golden Monkey Tracking permit.
- Full Board Accommodation
- Full-time English-speaking Driver/Guide
- Ground Transportation by a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Airport transfer.
- Kigali city tour.
Exclusions:
- Airfares
- Visa Fees
- Personal Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature.
The Gorillas and Golden Monkeys Tour in Rwanda is a fantastic adventure that combines two incredible wildlife experiences in the stunning Volcanoes National Park. This tour allows visitors to witness the majestic mountain gorillas and the playful golden monkeys in their natural habitats. Here’s a detailed guide to this remarkable tour:
Overview
Volcanoes National Park, located in northwestern Rwanda, is renowned for its population of mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The park is part of the Virunga Mountains, which span Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This tour typically spans two to three days, offering a perfect blend of wildlife encounters and scenic beauty.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Golden Monkey Trekking
– Morning Arrival in Kigali: Start with a morning pick-up from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, and drive to Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri), the town closest to Volcanoes National Park. The drive takes approximately 2-3 hours, offering beautiful views of the Rwandan countryside.
– Check-In: Upon arrival in Musanze, check into your accommodation. Options range from budget lodges to luxury hotels.
– Golden Monkey Trekking:
– Briefing: After lunch, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on golden monkey trekking. Rangers will provide important information about the guidelines and safety measures.
– The Trek: The trek begins in the early afternoon. Golden monkeys are generally found in the lower slopes of the park, making the trek less strenuous compared to gorilla trekking. The hike typically lasts between 2 to 4 hours.
– Encounter: Spend about an hour observing these lively and curious primates. Golden monkeys are known for their striking golden-orange fur and energetic behavior, making them a delight to watch as they leap from tree to tree and play in the bamboo forest.
– Evening at Leisure: Return to your lodge in Musanze for dinner and relaxation.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking
– Early Morning Start:
– Breakfast and Briefing: After an early breakfast, drive to the park headquarters for the gorilla trekking briefing. This session starts around 7:00 AM.
– Group Assignment: Trekkers are divided into groups of 8, each assigned to track a specific gorilla family. The assignments are based on fitness levels and preferences.
– The Trek:
– Hiking Start: The trek starts around 8:00 AM. Depending on the location of the gorilla family, the hike can last from 1 to 6 hours. The terrain can be challenging, involving steep climbs and dense vegetation.
– Gorilla Encounter: Once the gorilla family is located, you will spend one hour observing and photographing these majestic creatures. This experience is awe-inspiring as you watch gorillas interact, feed, play, and rest in their natural habitat.
– Return to Headquarters:
– Certificate of Participation: After the trek, return to the park headquarters where you will receive a certificate acknowledging your participation in the gorilla trek.
– Afternoon Departure: After lunch, drive back to Kigali, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.
What to Bring
– Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against stinging nettles and insect bites.
– Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip.
– Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket or poncho, as the weather can be unpredictable.
– Water and Snacks: Staying hydrated and energized is crucial, so bring plenty of water and some high-energy snacks.
– Camera and Binoculars: For capturing the unforgettable sights. Flash photography is not allowed.
Key Highlights
– Mountain Gorilla Encounter: The primary highlight is the intimate encounter with the mountain gorillas. This is a rare and unforgettable experience.
– Golden Monkey Trekking: Observing the playful and vibrant golden monkeys in their natural habitat is a unique and exciting experience.
– Scenic Landscapes: The trek offers stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes, lush forests, and diverse flora and fauna.
Both gorilla and golden monkey trekking permits contribute significantly to conservation efforts and local community development. Gorilla permits are priced at $1,500 per person, while golden monkey permits are around $100 per person (as of 2024). These fees help fund conservation initiatives, anti-poaching efforts, and support local communities through various development projects.
Tips for a Successful Trek
– Fitness Preparation: Ensure you are in good physical condition to handle the demanding hikes, especially for the gorilla trek.
– Respect Guidelines: Follow all instructions from the guides and maintain a respectful distance from the wildlife.
-Positive Attitude: The treks can be physically demanding and unpredictable, so staying patient and positive will enhance your experience.
The Gorillas and Golden Monkeys Tour in Rwanda offers an unparalleled wildlife adventure, combining the thrill of tracking mountain gorillas with the playful antics of golden monkeys. This experience provides a deep connection with nature and contributes to the conservation of these endangered species and their habitats.
https://gorillafund.org/biodiversity/comparing-golden-monkeys-and-gorillas/