Walk on the Wild Side: Primates in Africa

Included in Africa's spectacular mammal fauna are 107 species of primate. Add subspecies to that list and the continent's total increases to 192 taxa, or 'varieties', which belong to four families. Today, reports the IUCN Primate Specialist Group, just over half of these (52.6%) are threatened to varying degrees.

Incredibly, Madagascar, while being about half the size of South Africa and accounting for just 2% of the African landmass, is home to 106 Primate species. Again, if we cobble subspecies onto the list, the total increases to 110 taxa, which belong to five families. Unfortunately for Madagascar however, a staggering 94.5% of its primates are threatened, with some being perilously close to oblivion.  

Among the Primates of Africa and Madagascar are some of the world's most charismatic and compelling species. Of course, this means that they're often the focal point of wildlife travel 'bucket list' entries. Looking at our 2022 and 2023 programme, here’s a quick roundup of some signature excursions we're offering for those wanting to observe the great apes in tropical Africa, as well as the largest of Madagascar's lemurs, the indri.

Our experts add some valuable tips and recommendations on where you can go for these unforgettable brushes with nature.

Western lowland gorillas in Republic of Congo

For discerning and active wildlife travellers who have already encountered the mountain gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda, a light adventure sojourn to Republic of Congo is a refreshing choice.

While classified by the IUCN as critically endangered, the western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) population is far healthier than that of its upland relatives, being estimated at around 100,000 in the wild. Of these, more than 25,000 are believed to find sanctuary in the magnificent 13,500km2 Odzala Kokoau National Park, where they inhabit lowland rainforest.

Of the three habituated western lowland gorilla families in Odzala, two groups can be visited by tourists. During our carefully planned Congo trips, you also stand an excellent chance at seeing other key mammals present, such as African forest elephant, forest buffalo, bongo antelope and giant forest hog. 

Top tips:

• During our Congo trips, know that you will be getting around in various modes - travelling from point A to B can involve a road stint in a sturdy 4x4 vehicle; some walking; paddling in a canoe (or travelling in a motorised boat), and wading/ river walking, sometimes waist-deep.
• You'll be in the equatorial rainforests, so expect some inclement weather. There are two 'rainy seasons' i.e. March-May and September-October. Pack waterproofs to protect any camera gear. A dry-bag is also essential.
• A hat with a round brim rather than a peak or cap is highly recommended, to protect yourself from bugs. Pack a bandana too, to cover your neck. 
• A pair of Teva sandals is indispensable for river walking. (Far more so than waders, which are cumbersome and not necessary). 
• During our Odzala adventures, visitors generally have the chance to do up to three gorilla-watching excursions. The terrain is fairly flat in these lowland rainforests and you'll be accompanied by expert trackers and local guides. Protocol dictates that flash photography is not permitted.

Indris in Madagascar

Our final entry for this instalment is the largest of the 110-odd species of lemur, the indri (Indri indri), which can weigh up to 20 pounds. While not an ape, it is often described as 'ape-like', with a vestigial tail and those black, 'gloved' hands. 

As mentioned previously, the overwhelming majority of Madagascar’s lemurs are currently on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. So, we’re passionate about responsible travel, encouraging appreciation of the island's remaining wild places. Responsibly conducted tourism is one of the best and most impactful ways to ensure the continuation of lemur conservation. Many of our sample itineraries to Madagascar include a visit to the rainforests protected at Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, in the eastern rainforest band. This is in large part thanks to the thriving population of resident indris, who do not survive in captivity so are best seen (and heard) where they belong, in their Malagasy rainforest home.

Top Tips:

• Make sure to pack rain gear for inclement weather, which happens most days in Madagascar's rainforests. Remember to pick up a small umbrella to protect your camera – even in the rain, you’ll have some perfect photo opportunities!
• Terrain here is usually hilly, so paths can be muddy and slippery after rain. Take footwear with a sturdy grip and ankle support.
• Permits for protected areas need to be arranged in advance; we include these in our tour prices.
• You will need to be able to walk unassisted for at least two to three hours in Andasibe in order to track and observe one of the resident habituated family groups of indri.
• We highly recommend venturing into the Malagasy rainforests during the early morning, when diurnal wildlife is at its most active.

"You may well hear indri before you even get into the reserve, as the sound travels for miles over the rainforest in the early mornings. It's similar to a whale song, but quite hard to describe. You just have to go hear and see them for yourself!"

- Helen Kennedy, Rainbow's Madagascar Travel Specialist