The golden monkey, a subspecies of the blue monkey, is native to the dense tropical rainforests of central Africa. Golden monkeys, which often reside in thick woods on the slopes of volcanoes occupy the Virunga Massif. They go by the scientific name – Cercopithecus kandti and are members of the phylum Chordata, domain Eukaryota, family Ceropithecidae, and kingdom Animalia. Their huge faces are partially composed of golden hair, black hair on their backs, red eyes, and expressive faces.
The countries where golden monkeys dwell.
The Virunga massif in the Great Lakes region, which is shared by Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Uganda, is home to golden monkeys. Golden monkeys thrive in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega in the east, as well as in the southwest of Uganda in what is now Mgahinga National Park. In Rwanda, they are found in Volcanoes National Park located northwest of the country.
Golden Monkey Facts.
Although this characteristic is unusual among primates, golden monkeys are known to be extremely social creatures. They do this in part because they live in social groups of roughly thirty people.
Only about 5000 golden monkeys are remaining in the world, which is one of the reasons they are considered an endangered species. They are approaching extinction as a result of conflicts between animals and human beings.
The golden monkeys are trekked from Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s protected areas, which are located in the highland forested parts of the Great Lakes region of Africa. Various academics have proposed, for a variety of reasons, that because of their intelligence and behavior, golden monkeys are somewhat linked to Human DNA.
Researchers have found that when golden monkeys feel scared, they will hug themselves. This action is uncommon in other primates. This behavior helps the monkeys release tension and rage. Golden monkeys use a ventriloquist-like style of communication with one another. Not to be overlooked is the fact that golden monkeys have a 20–25-year lifespan in the wild.
What distinguishes golden monkeys from other species of primates?
Compared to other primates, golden monkeys are quite swift. This is seen from the way they sprint on the ground and hop from branch to branch when surviving in the jungles.
Hugging is a trait unique to golden monkeys among other primates. Comparatively speaking to other primates, golden monkeys also reside in larger social groups.
The Experience of Trekking Golden Monkeys.
Since golden monkeys live in hilly areas of the Virunga massif, hiking through dense forests and shrubs is necessary in order to see them. Since they are in protected areas, one needs the guidance of Rangers and tourist guides. They offer the golden monkeys additional protection on the trek and knowledge about the golden monkeys respectively. Trekking permits are reserved in advance through registered Tour Operators.
How much it costs to trek golden monkeys.
The expense is relatively reasonable in the three East African countries where trekking golden monkeys is attainable. Golden Monkey trekking permits in Uganda cost $100 for non-resident foreigners, $60 for locals, and 40,000 Uganda Shillings for citizens of East Africa per person, per expedition. In the Democratic Republic of Congo on the other hand, a Golden Monkey tracking permit costs $100 per person per trek. In Rwanda, it goes for 4000 Rwandan Francs for citizens of Rwanda. Foreign non-residents get them at $100, and foreign residents at $85.
The benefits of trekking the Golden Monkeys are well worth the effort, so don’t think twice about doing it. Additionally, we can help you create an itinerary that suits your interests. To speak with a tour consultant, just submit your inquiry. Or, you may get in touch with us directly at +256 393 247 137 / +256 742 678 918. Or email us at info@ibuthsafaris.com
