Golden monkey trekking vs chimpanzee trekking : Golden monkey trekking and chimpanzee trekking are both fun primate activities done in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo all year round. The experience of trekking either the golden monkeys or chimpanzees is next to the mountain gorilla trekking experience.
Golden Monkeys are beautiful and unique with a distinct gold colour on their bodies especially the head and tail. These eye catching monkeys are found in Mgahinga national park in south-western Uganda, Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National park in the DR Congo.
The chimpanzees on the other hand are also beautiful creatures found in Kibaale National Park, Bugondo forest and Kyambura gorge in Uganda, Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National park in the DR Congo.
Before a trekking experience of either the chimpanzees or golden monkeys; you have to acquire a trekking permit. The prices of the permits differ per country so consult with you tour agent or consultant to give you the right price fees.
The rules of Golden monkey trekking and chimpanzee trekking are the same and they include You will spend only an hour in the primate’s presence, do not trekking when you are sick, keeping a distance between you and the animals, don’t feed the animals, don’t touch the animals, don’t use flash photography among other rules.
Unlike mountain gorilla trekking that is only started in the morning, chimpanzee trekking and golden monkey trekking can be done both in the morning and afternoon. First because these primates don’t live far deep in the forests like the gorillas and also they are fairly on low land compared to where the gorillas camp. Hence it takes less time to find them and be with them.
Both the chimpanzees and golden monkeys are playful animals so they give you a run for your energy when you meet them especially the monkeys; they camp in fewer numbers and are always jumping from one tree to another and they are small and swift so you are literally following their lead on the trek.
Actually on a golden monkey trekking experience, you will find the monkeys and in the next min your will see them hoping on trees in unison, so you then will start following them as the hop around on trees.
For the chimpanzees on the other hand, they camp in larger groups of up to 60 individuals so you are safe to say you will be in a haven of chimps. They are also playful and jump around, so you will be sure to see some move away jump and go but not at the same time and not the majority. Meaning you will still have enough chimpanzees to see and will not have to move round with them like for the golden monkeys.
We know it’s a rule not to get close to the animals, but because of the nature of these animals, they will surely be coming closer to you. We advise if that happens don’t look them in the eye, stay still, don’t touch them and wait for them to withdraw before you move away. The trekking ranger will guide you through the whole process.
For either trek you need to carry a snack and water, insect repellent since you are trekking in a forest. You will have to wear long sleeved shirts and trousers and also have hiking boots; they help in navigating the forest.
Some people need walking sticks for support, remember to get that at the starting point. Also if you require a porter to help you, get one at the starting point.
