How to Spot Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park
Situated in the northwest of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is an amazing wildlife hotspot, so much so that anyone who comes here will no doubt be overwhelmed with the desire to spot the elusive golden monkeys. The sight of these vibrant and playful primates make the park one of the unique attractions and travellers across the world throng to the park to get adrenaline rush by spotting the primates in their natural habitat. From the best times to visit, to what type of activities will bring you closer to these beautiful creatures, this article will guide you about how to spot golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park.
What Are Golden Monkeys?
Species of primate closely related to them that is found only in the volcanic forests of the Virunga Mountains that straddle Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are the golden monkeys (Cercopithecus kandti). Like all other monkeys, the golden monkey has a distinctive golden fur (especially on the back and limbs), and a striking black face. Unlike other monkeys, however, they live in tiny groups, which are generally excited and seen feeding in the forest canopies.
Why Visit Volcanoes National Park to Spot Golden Monkeys?
Thanks to the park’s rich biodiversity and conservation protection, Volcanoes National Park is one of the best places to see golden monkeys in the wild. The Virunga Conservation Area is also famous for gorilla trekking and having chance to watch golden monkeys in their natural habitat in the park. Bamboo forests, which are very dense, along with lush vegetation and altitude, is a perfect habitat for these monkeys and the park is a top wildlife lover’s destination.
Best Time to Spot Golden Monkeys
Volcanoes National Park is the best place to see golden monkeys, and the dry season lasting from June to September and from December to February is the most suitable time to spot them. As these months are the best for navigation of trails and possessing high possibilities of the monkeys being spotted. The golden monkeys are most active during the daytime, rendering the dry season the best time for you to pay a visit. Though generally not hindered by the rainy season (March to May and October to November), the forest stays lush and sparking and the monkeys still visible although, for trekking, conditions may not be as favorable.
Golden Monkey Trekking Experience
Trekking with golden monkeys is one that is very unique and rewarding to do when visiting Volcanoes National Park. Unlike gorilla trekking, the golden monkey trekking is less strenuous and lasts between two to four hours. Walking through dense forest, sometimes steep, the monkeys are far less elusive, usually living at much lower altitudes than the mountain gorillas.
During golden monkey trek the forest can only be explored with the help of a park ranger. The golden monkeys’ behavior is well known by the rangers, and they are experts at tracking their movements. You are taken to an area where the golden monkeys most frequently live and, when sighted, you will have about an hour to admire them. While with the golden monkeys, you can see them looking in on each other and playing, feeding and exploring the forest at its most lush.
What to Expect During Golden Monkey Trekking
Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park will sure be an immersive and exciting wildlife experience to anticipate on. The phone rings at park headquarters where treks usually begin early in the morning with a briefing at the desk. You will receive important information on golden monkeys and the rules on how to interact with wildlife here. Then you’ll depart for the trek: it will last anywhere between 30 minutes and in a few of hours depending on where the monkeys are.
After you make it to the designated area, you will see the golden monkey in the wild. Very acive these monkeys are, jumping from tree to tree, searching for food on the ground and therefore are excellent for photos. Not the size nor the stares of the mountain gorilla, the golden monkeys are smaller and not quite as terrifying but have a playful and younger curiosity and sometimes come close if visitors do not make noise.
What to wear for Golden Monkey Trekking
Attending a golden monkey trek needs preparations, especially with regard to gear and clothing. To protect yourself from the thorny vegetation as well as possible insect bites, wear long pants, sturdy hiking boots and a long sleeve shirt. Also, bring a rain jacket as the weather in the rainforest changes so quickly you can have rain even in dry season. Bring with yourself a good pair of binoculars and a zoom lens camera to grasp the essence of golden monkeys without disturbing them.
What to Do After Golden Monkey Trekking
Although spotting golden monkeys is no doubt the most highly anticipated activity on your visit to Volcanoes National Park, the park is home to a year round abundance of additional activities for you to enjoy. The park’s signature experience is gorilla trekking and is a must for the wildlife enthusiasts. It is also possible to reach Mount Karisimbi, Rwanda’s highest volcano, or to hike the Dian Fossey Tomb Trek, which takes in the legacy of the famous gorilla conservationist.
Also, a number of accommodations are provided by the nearby town of Musanze, which has luxury lodges as well as budget hotels. As an excellent starting point for exploring the park, many lodges are equipped to give a panoramic view of the nearby volcanoes. For those who have spent all day trekking, these lodges make the ideal place for rejuvenation, fantastic traditional cuisine and retrospection over a great golden monkey encounter.
Conclusion
Volcanoes National Park is a once in a lifetime opportunity for nature and wildlife lovers to spot golden monkeys. Volcanoes National Park boasts a rich biodiversity and splendid landscapes and is wholly dedicated to conservation of spectacular species. For a seasoned trekker or a first time tourist, and if you have got the chance to see the golden monkey in their natural abode makes your safari to Rwanda unforgettable.
