1-Day Golden Monkey Tour in Rwanda: Pickup and Drop-off in Kigali

The 1-Day Golden Monkey Tour in Rwanda offers an exhilarating wildlife experience, set against the lush backdrop of Rwanda’s verdant forests. This exclusive tour not only promises close encounters with the rare and enchanting golden monkeys but also provides a comprehensive service with convenient pickup and drop-off in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. It’s a perfect adventure for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts looking to maximise their time in this beautiful country.

Detailed Itinerary
Morning: Departure from Kigali

The tour begins early in the morning to ensure a full day of wildlife exploration. You will be picked up from your accommodation in Kigali in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The journey to Volcanoes National Park, where the golden monkeys reside, takes approximately two hours. During the drive, enjoy the scenic views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and the vibrant life of its rural communities. A brief stop is usually made at a local market or cultural site to provide guests with a glimpse of Rwandan culture and daily life.

Mid-Morning: Arrival and Briefing at Volcanoes National Park

Upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park, renowned for its mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, you will receive a thorough briefing from experienced park rangers. They will explain the dos and don’ts during the trek and what to expect during your encounter with the golden monkeys. The park is part of the Virunga Mountains, a range of extinct volcanoes that border the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, and is home to a variety of wildlife species, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

Late Morning to Afternoon: Golden Monkey Trekking

The trek to see the golden monkeys takes you through bamboo forests and volcanic terrain, providing not only a chance to see these rare creatures but also to enjoy breathtaking landscapes. Golden monkeys are known for their vibrant gold-coloured fur and lively behaviour. They are most often seen in the morning when they come down from the bamboo forests to feed on young bamboo leaves. Unlike gorilla trekking, which can often take the whole day, golden monkey trekking is relatively easier and shorter, usually lasting about 1-4 hours, including the time spent observing the monkeys.

After spending an hour with the golden monkeys, you will trek back to the park headquarters. This provides another opportunity to spot other wildlife and bird species endemic to the area.

Afternoon: Lunch and Cultural Experience

Following the trek, enjoy a traditional Rwandan lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can relax and discuss the morning’s encounters. After lunch, you will be treated to a cultural performance or a visit to a local community. This might include demonstrations of traditional Rwandan dancing, drumming, or craft-making. Such activities offer insight into the rich cultural heritage of the Rwandan people and provide a chance to interact with local communities.

Late Afternoon: Return to Kigali

The return trip to Kigali begins in the late afternoon, allowing you to reflect on the day’s adventures. The drive back is often completed just before sunset, offering stunning views of the Rwandan countryside as the day ends.

The 1-Day Golden Monkey Tour from Kigali is an exceptional way to experience one of Rwanda’s unique wildlife offerings. It provides a compact yet enriching encounter with one of the rarest primates in Africa, alongside a taste of local culture and the stunning natural beauty of Rwanda. This tour is ideal for those with limited time but a keen interest in wildlife and culture, providing an unforgettable day trip with the convenience of pickup and drop-off in the vibrant city of Kigali.