Colobus monkey trekking in Rwanda offers visitors a chance to see one of the most attractive primates in the country. This activity is done in Nyungwe National Park, which is located about a five hours drive from Kigali City. Nyungwe National Park is home to more than 400 colobus monkeys, making it one of the best places in Africa to see these primates in large groups.
Colobus monkey trekking is usually done in the morning. This is the time when the monkeys are most active as they feed, groom their young ones, and move through the forest canopy. Like other primates, colobus monkeys can easily be disturbed by loud noise. Visitors are advised to keep quiet during the trek, avoid noisy gadgets, and use cameras without flash. This helps protect the monkeys and allows you to enjoy natural behavior without disturbance.
Upon arrival at Uwinka Visitor Center, visitors attend a short briefing. During this briefing, guides explain what to expect during the trek and the rules to follow while in the forest. After the briefing, you set off with an experienced guide, an armed ranger, and sometimes porters. The walk through the forest can take several hours, and in some cases, it may cover half of the day. It is advised to carry snacks and enough drinking water. Many lodges around the park prepare lunch boxes in advance for trekkers.
Visitors are encouraged to carry a few important items for colobus monkey trekking in Rwanda. These include insect repellent to protect your skin from forest insects, enough water to stay hydrated, and long sleeved shirts to protect against itchy plants and insects. Earth colored clothing is recommended. A basic first aid kit is useful, especially during the dry season when the risk of small accidents is higher. During the wet season, rain jackets and gumboots are needed. In the dry season, sunglasses and sunscreen help protect from the sun. Binoculars are also useful for seeing monkeys and forest features that are far away.
After a long day of trekking, visitors can relax in accommodations near the park. These range from budget to luxury options and include Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, and Nyungwe Forest Lodge. These lodges offer comfortable rooms, clean bathrooms, warm and cold showers, restaurants, bars, free WiFi, and secure parking.
Do not limit your adventure while in Rwanda. Colobus monkey trekking in Rwanda is a rewarding experience that adds great value to your safari journey.
