2 Days Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Golden monkeys are endemic to the Virunga Mountains, which stretch across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park provides one of the best places to track and observe these striking primates.

Unlike gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking often involves shorter walking distances and takes place mainly in bamboo forests at the base of the volcanoes. As a result, the experience feels accessible while remaining adventurous. Moreover, golden monkeys are highly active and playful, which makes photography both exciting and rewarding.

At the same time, the surrounding scenery enhances the experience. The dramatic volcanic peaks, cool mountain air, and lush greenery create a truly magical setting.

Safari Highlights

• Scenic transfer from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

• Guided Kigali city tour, including the Genocide Memorial and local markets

• Golden monkey trekking experience in bamboo forest

• Spectacular views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and volcanoes

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your driver-guide from Experiya Tour Company will warmly welcome you at your hotel or Kigali International Airport. First, they will brief you about the safari and outline what to expect over the next two days. Afterward, you will begin a guided Kigali city tour.

During the tour, you will visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, which provides a powerful and educational insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience. Although the visit can be emotional, it helps you better understand the country’s remarkable journey of recovery and unity.

Next, you will explore local art centers, where talented Rwandan artists showcase contemporary paintings, crafts, and handmade souvenirs. You will also visit Kimironko Market, one of Kigali’s most vibrant markets. Here, you can observe daily life, browse fresh produce, colorful fabrics, and handmade crafts, and interact with friendly local vendors.

After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, you will begin your scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda. The journey takes approximately 2–3 hours. Along the way, you will admire Rwanda’s famous rolling hills, terraced farms, lush countryside, and traditional homesteads. This scenic drive clearly demonstrates why Rwanda is known as “The Land of a Thousand Hills.”

Upon arrival near the park, you will check in at your lodge. In the evening, you can relax, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the next day’s trekking adventure.

Overnight: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Golden Monkey Trekking and Return to Kigali

After an early breakfast, you will carry your packed lunch and transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi for a briefing. Park rangers will explain the trekking rules, safety guidelines, and conservation efforts that protect the golden monkeys and their habitat.

Shortly afterward, you will drive to the trailhead and begin your golden monkey trekking experience. The trek typically lasts between 2 to 5 hours, depending on the monkeys’ location. As you walk through the bamboo forest, your ranger will help you spot wildlife and identify bird species along the way.

Once you locate the golden monkeys, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing them. You will watch them feed on bamboo shoots, leap effortlessly between stems, groom one another, and interact socially. Because they are highly energetic and curious, they often move quickly, which adds excitement to the encounter.

During this hour, you can take photographs and record videos while your ranger shares insights about their behavior, social structure, and conservation status. The experience feels intimate, immersive, and deeply rewarding.

After your allocated time ends, you will trek back to the starting point, where your driver-guide will be waiting. You will then begin your return journey to Kigali.

Upon arrival in Kigali, your driver-guide will drop you off at Kigali International Airport for your departure flight or at your preferred location within the city.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

End of the 2 Days Golden Monkey Trekking Safari

What to Expect During Golden Monkey Trekking

To fully enjoy this experience, you should wear comfortable hiking shoes, long trousers, and a light rain jacket. Additionally, carrying gardening gloves can help protect your hands from bamboo and vegetation. Although the trek is generally manageable, a moderate level of fitness enhances your comfort.

Most importantly, you will actively support conservation by purchasing a golden monkey trekking permit, as the fees contribute directly to protecting these endangered primates and their habitat.

Tour Inclusions

• Golden monkey trekking permit

• Kigali city tour

• Professional English-speaking driver-guide

• Full-board accommodation

• Ground transfers in a 4WD safari vehicle

• Vehicle and fuel

• Bottled drinking water

Tour Exclusions

• International flight tickets

• Rwanda visa fees

• Optional activities not included in the itinerary

• Travel and life insurance

• Personal expenses (souvenirs, crafts, drinks, laundry services, porter fees, and tips)