Colobus monkey trekking in Nyungwe National Park offers a fascinating and accessible alternative to chimpanzee trekking, providing visitors with the chance to observe one of Africa’s most striking and social primates. Nyungwe is home to one of the largest known troops of Angola colobus monkeys in East Africa, with groups numbering over 400 individualsan extraordinary sight rarely seen elsewhere in the wild.
Unlike the elusive chimps, colobus monkeys are often easier to locate and more relaxed in the presence of humans, making this trek ideal for families, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts who want a rich primate encounter without the rigorous challenge of longer forest hikes. These monkeys are easily recognizable by their distinctive black-and-white coats, long bushy tails, and graceful movements through the treetops. Watching them leap through the forest canopy or interact with their young in the early morning light is a truly magical experience.
The trek usually begins at the Gisakura area of Nyungwe, near the park’s western entrance, and is led by experienced park rangers who help track the monkeys based on their recent locations and vocalizations. The trail winds through lowland forest and tea plantations before entering denser vegetation, but the hike is generally considered less strenuous than chimpanzee trekking, lasting around 2 to 3 hours round-trip.
Colobus monkey trekking is available year-round and can be arranged through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or licensed tour operators. Permits are affordable—typically costing USD $40 per person in addition to an entry fee of 100$ for international visitorsand include park entry, ranger guidance, and the trekking experience itself. The activity is usually done in the morning when the monkeys are most active, and group sizes are kept small to minimize disturbance and maintain an intimate, low-impact experience.
Beyond the monkeys themselves, the trek offers a chance to explore the edge zones of Nyungwe Forest, where primates, birds, butterflies, and rare plants thrive. It’s also a meaningful way to support conservation efforts and local community projects, as a portion of the permit fees goes directly toward protecting wildlife and funding education in surrounding villages.
For visitors seeking a gentler wildlife experience or looking to diversify their Nyungwe itinerary, Colobus monkey trekking is a rewarding, eye-opening activity that highlights the ecological richness of Rwanda’s forests and the importance of sustainable tourism.