Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga
Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga is an active adventure that involves walking and hiking up into the mountains in search of small, cheeky primates called golden monkeys. These monkeys thrive in the bamboo zone because their favorite meals are bamboo shoots and insects.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda’s smallest national park, bordering Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. It features three volcanoes Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Muhabura all part of the six Virunga Mountains. The park is home to both endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, and its rich tropical rainforest includes lowland equatorial evergreen forest, tropical seasonal forest, montane rainforest, and mountain bamboo.
Golden monkey tracking is a perfect add-on after gorilla trekking in Mgahinga. It is only done in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, starting in the morning with a briefing. Afterwards, you’ll venture into the forest on foot in search of these rare primates. Permits are available and can be purchased directly at the park headquarters.
Cost of Golden Monkey Permits in Mgahinga National Park
As of 2025, the Golden Monkey Tracking Permit costs:
- $60 for Foreign Non-Residents
- $60 for Foreign Residents
- UGX 40,000 for East African Citizens
Golden Monkey tracking in Mgahinga is conducted once each morning, beginning with a briefing before you head into the forest.
Note: Golden Monkey tracking is different from habituation, which allows for extended time with the monkeys as they get used to human presence (see more below).
What to Expect on the Trek
On the day of your trek, report to the Park Headquarters for a briefing on the rules and guidelines. Trained guides and park rangers will accompany you into the dense rainforest, which includes steep climbs and thick vegetation. The reward is a thrilling encounter with golden monkeys in their natural habitat. You’ll typically get within a few meters of them and observe their fascinating behavior for one full hour.
Transportation to Mgahinga National Park
Transport costs include vehicle hire, fuel, and a driver-guide. Prices range between USD 100–250 per day, depending on the vehicle type. A three-day return trip to Mgahinga will typically cost around USD 290.
Additionally, you’ll need a Uganda visa, which costs USD 50, and can be obtained at Entebbe International Airport or any official border point.
Mgahinga is accessible by road, located just 45 minutes from Kisoro town. At Experiya Tour Company, we offer 4×4 safari vehicles with AC and bottled water as part of our comfortable, all-inclusive road trip packages.
Other Things to Do in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
1. Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga
Home to the Nyakagezi gorilla group, Mgahinga offers a unique mountain gorilla trekking experience. Only eight permits are issued daily, so advance booking through a reliable tour operator like Experiya Tour Company is essential. Gorilla trekking starts with a briefing, followed by an immersive journey into the gorillas’ habitat for an hour of magical interaction.
2. Batwa Cultural Trail
This cultural trail is led by Batwa guides who take you through the forest, sharing their ancestral traditions, dances, and survival skills. Cost is USD 80 per person, and it’s an excellent way to understand the indigenous heritage of the Batwa pygmies.
3. Nature Walks in Gahinga Forest
A guided nature walk introduces you to unique tree species and forest wildlife an excellent add-on after your trek.
4. Village Walks Around Kisoro
This community walk brings you closer to the Bafumbira and Bakiga communities, letting you experience their daily life, taste local dishes, enjoy traditional dances, and explore vibrant markets.
5. Golden Monkey Habituation Experience
Unlike the one-hour tracking session, the Golden Monkey Habituation experience allows you to spend more time with the monkeys as they are gradually introduced to human presence. This immersive activity also starts with a morning briefing.
6. Birding in Mgahinga
With over 127 bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics, Mgahinga is one of Uganda’s best birding destinations.
Accommodation Options in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mount Gahinga Lodge (Luxury)
Located near the park entrance, this luxury lodge offers elegant bandas, a sunroom, fireplaces, flush toilets, and solar power. Activities like gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, birding, and volcano hiking are easily accessible.
Mucha Hotel Kisoro (Mid-range)
Just 6 km from Kisoro town, it offers spacious rooms, volcano views, a restaurant, garden area, and river scenery.
Traveler’s Rest Hotel – Kisoro (Mid-range)
A historic property offering 11 well-furnished rooms, a restaurant, internet, and lush gardens just a short distance from the park.
Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp (Budget)
Ideal for eco-conscious travelers and campers, this camp offers budget bandas and dorms with spectacular views of the Virunga volcanoes.
Kisoro Tourist Hotel (Budget)
Located in Kisoro town, this hotel offers self-contained rooms, a sauna, restaurant, fitness center, and laundry facilities.
Mutanda Lake Resort (Mid-range)
Situated on the shores of Lake Mutanda, this resort offers serene lake views, cool breezes, and affordable accommodations just 14 km from Kisoro.
Mgahinga Rest Camp (Budget)
Close to the park entrance, it has grass-thatched bandas and tents with private facilities. Its strategic location also makes it easy to visit neighboring countries like Rwanda and DRC. Nearby is Chameleon Hill Lodge, a luxury lodge with sweeping lake views.
What to Pack for Golden Monkey Tracking
- Face mask & sanitizer
- Hiking boots
- A pair of gaiters
- Hiking gloves
- Waterproof jacket
- Long-sleeved shirt/blouse
- Hiking trousers
- Energy snacks
- Camera & extra batteries
- Binoculars
- Light backpack
Why Choose Experiya Tour Company?
Experiya Tour Company is a locally owned Ugandan tour operator based in Kisoro. We specialize in authentic and life-changing safari experiences across East Africa. As members of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators and registered with the Uganda Tourism Board, we offer seamless permit booking, expert-guided treks, and sustainable travel experiences.
Let us help you plan your Golden Monkey tracking adventure in Mgahinga with comfort, reliability, and unforgettable memories.
