The Stunning Golden Monkeys In Uganda
The stunning golden monkeys in Uganda are one of the amazing and most beautiful monkey species that we have in the country. Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. One of its unique treasures is the golden monkey, a vibrant and rare primate found in the bamboo forests of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These playful monkeys, with their striking golden-orange fur, offer a unique wildlife experience for visitors, highlighting Uganda’s rich biodiversity and commitment to conservation.
Golden monkeys have striking golden-orange fur on their backs and flanks, with a contrasting black face, arms and legs. They weigh around 15-20 pounds and grow up to about 20 inches long, with a tail that can extend up to 30 inches.
They primarily live in the bamboo forests at high altitudes above 2,500 meters. In Uganda, they are found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Their diet mainly consists of bamboo leaves and shoots, but they also eat fruits, flowers and occasionally small invertebrates.
The stunning golden monkeys in Uganda live in social groups that can range from 30 to over 100 individuals. They are active during the day spending most of their time in the trees.
Why are they called the stunning golden monkeys in Uganda ?
The stunning golden monkeys in Uganda are different from other monkeys because of their striking golden-orange fur, particularly on their backs and flanks. This distinctive coloring sets them apart from other monkey species and gives them their name. The contrast of their golden fur against the green bamboo forests makes them a truly unique and beautiful sight.
Where are the stunning golden monkeys in Uganda found?
The best place to clearly see the stunning golden monkeys in Uganda is in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This park is located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, near the borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is 482 km from Kampala. The park is renowned for its bamboo forests, which provide the ideal habitat for golden monkeys.
Why are they only found there in Uganda?
Golden monkeys primarily feed on bamboo shoots and leaves, which are abundant in Mgahinga’s bamboo forests. These monkeys thrive in high-altitude environments, typically above 2,500 meters, which is characteristic of Mgahinga’s terrain.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a protected environment, free from human encroachment and poaching, ensuring the safety and conservation of golden monkeys.
The park is also home to mountain gorillas, and the presence of these larger primates helps maintain the ecological balance, benefiting golden monkeys as well.
Golden monkey tracking.
Golden monkey tracking is an amazing activity. Visitors arrive at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and check in at the Ntebeko Visitor Center.
At 7:45 AM, a park ranger conducts a briefing session in the way that visitors learn about the rules, safety guidelines, and what to expect during the trek.
The actual tracking starts at 8:30 AM where by visitors are led by experienced guides and rangers who know the golden monkeys’ habitat well.
The stunning golden monkey in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
The trek involves hiking through the bamboo forests and higher slopes where golden monkeys are usually found. The duration can vary, but it typically takes about 4 hours.
Once the golden monkeys are located, you’ll have one hour to observe and take photos. After the hour is up, you’ll trek back to the starting point, usually arriving by 1:00 PM
Golden monkey habituation.
Golden monkey habituation process involves gradually introducing of the monkeys to human presence. The habituation process can take 2 to 3 years to complete. It requires consistent effort and patience to ensure that the monkeys are fully habituated.
Researchers, park guides, rangers, and trackers work together to ensure the monkeys become accustomed to humans without feeling threatened. This involves spending time with the monkeys, observing their behavior and ensuring they are comfortable with human observers.
For tourists, the golden monkey habituation experience usually lasts about 4 hours.
Best time for tracking the stunning golden monkeys in Uganda
The best time for tracking the stunning golden monkeys in Uganda is during the dry seasons, which typically occur from June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails are less muddy and easier to navigate, providing better viewing conditions.
Additionally, the golden monkeys are more active and easier to locate in the drier weather.
Wet season as well provides a unique experience and others tourists would prefer that season though its physical demanding since its always muddy and too slippery however adventurous.
Important things to carry for tracking experience.
Comfortable Hiking Boots for navigating the forest trails, Waterproof Jacket in case of rain, as the weather can be unpredictable. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect against insects and thorny bushes.
Reusable Water Bottle or a minimum of 2 litres of water to stay hydrated during the trek. Snacks and packed food for extra energy. Camera and Binoculars for capturing the experience and observing the monkeys closely.
Finally, don’t forget to carry a face mask which is very important and without it you can’t proceed with tracking.
Age restriction for tracking the stunning golden monkeys in Uganda
The minimum age for golden monkey tracking in Uganda is 12 years. This ensures that participants are mature enough to handle the physical demands of the trek and follow safety guidelines with out causing any issues.
Permit.
Golden Monkey Tracking Permit Costs $60 for foreign non-residents, $50 for foreign residents, and UGX 40,000 for East African citizens. Golden Monkey Habituation Permit Costs $100 for foreign non-residents, $80 for foreign residents, and UGX 100,000 for East African citizens.
These permits can be booked through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a reputable tour company such as Beyond sight safaris
