Golden Monkey vs Gorilla Trekking: Which Is Easier?

When planning a safari in Rwanda or Uganda, two experiences often stand out gorilla trekking and golden monkey trekking. Both are unique and unforgettable, but many travelers wonder: Which one is easier?

At Traford Safaris, we guide visitors through both adventures, and the answer depends on what you mean by “easy.” Is it about physical effort, cost, permit availability, or the overall experience? In this guide to Golden Monkey Trekking vs Gorilla Trekking, we’ll break down the differences so you can choose the trek that best fits your travel style and budget.

What is Gorilla trekking

Gorilla trekking is one of Africa’s most sought after wildlife experiences. It involves hiking through the dense rainforests of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda to find a habituated gorilla family.

• Duration: The trek can last 2 to 6 hours, depending on where the gorillas are.

• Difficulty: Terrain can be steep, muddy, and slippery, especially in Bwindi, which is known for its rugged hills.

• Time with Gorillas: Once found, visitors spend one magical hour observing the gorillas.

• Permit Cost: $1,500 in Rwanda, $800 in Uganda (as of 2025).

It is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but it requires stamina, patience, and a bigger budget.

2. What Is Golden Monkey Trekking?

Golden monkeys are rare primates found only in the Virunga Volcanoes region, covering Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo. They live in bamboo forests at lower altitudes compared to gorillas, making them much easier to reach.

• Duration: Treks usually last 1 to 2 hours, with a gentler hike.

• Difficulty: Relatively easy compared to gorilla trekking, as the monkeys are often found in bamboo forests at the base of the mountains.

• Time with Monkeys: Visitors spend one hour watching playful groups of 80–100 monkeys leaping through the bamboo.

It’s a shorter, lighter, and more affordable trek perfect for families, older travelers, or anyone who wants a primate experience without the intensity of gorilla trekking.

3. Comparing Physical Difficulty

• Altitude: Gorilla trekking often takes place at higher elevations (2,500–3,000 meters), where the air is thinner. Golden monkeys stay lower, making the hike less strenuous.

• Terrain: Gorilla treks require navigating thick undergrowth, mud, and steep slopes. Golden monkey treks follow gentler forest paths.

• Time & Effort: Expect several hours of hiking for gorillas, versus a quick forest walk for golden monkeys.

👉 If you’re short on time, not used to hiking, or traveling with children, golden monkey trekking is easier.

When it comes to affordability, golden monkey trekking is the clear winner. Many travelers even combine it with gorilla trekking, using it as a “warm-up” hike before the big adventure.

4. Wildlife Experience

Both treks offer something special:

• Gorillas – Powerful, human like, and deeply emotional encounters. Watching a silverback lead his family or a baby gorilla playing is an unforgettable highlight of Africa.

• Golden Monkeys – Lively, playful, and full of energy. Unlike gorillas, they don’t sit still; instead, they bounce from bamboo stalk to bamboo stalk, making photography more challenging but also exciting.

👉 If you want a life changing encounter, gorillas are unbeatable. If you want a fun, active, and affordable wildlife experience, golden monkeys are a perfect choice.

5. Accessibility and Permit Availability

• Gorilla Permits: Limited to protect the species. They sell out quickly, especially in Rwanda, so booking months in advance is essential.

• Golden Monkey Permits: Easier to secure. You can often book just days before your trek.

This makes golden monkey trekking an excellent backup plan if gorilla permits are sold out.

6. Who Should Choose Which?

• Choose Gorilla Trekking If:

• You’re ready for a physically demanding adventure.

• You want a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter.

• Your budget allows for the high permit cost.

• Choose Golden Monkey Trekking If

• You prefer a lighter, more relaxed trek.

• You’re traveling with kids or seniors.

• You want a primate experience at a fraction of the cost.

• You want an extra activity to combine with gorilla trekking.

7. Can You Do Both?

Absolutely! In fact, many travelers with Traford Safaris combine gorilla trekking with golden monkey trekking during their visit to Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda).

• Do golden monkey trekking first as a warm up hike it prepares your legs for the longer gorilla trek.

• It gives you two distinct wildlife experiences in the same region.

• It’s a great way to maximize your trip without spending too much extra.

Conclusion: Which Is Easier?

When it comes to physical effort and cost, golden monkey trekking is definitely easier than gorilla trekking. The hikes are shorter, the terrain is gentler, and the permits are much cheaper. However, gorilla trekking remains the more emotional and powerful experience, offering encounters that many describe as life changing.

At  Traford Safaris, we recommend that travelers who can afford it experience both. If you’re short on time, on a budget, or want a family friendly adventure, golden monkey trekking is the easier choice. If you’re ready for a once in a lifetime challenge, gorilla trekking is worth every step.

Whichever you choose, Rwanda and Uganda offer some of the most rewarding primate experiences on earth and we’re here to help you plan it perfectly