Monkeyland, Primate sanctuary in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
Monkeyland is a sanctuary in indigenous forest near Plettenberg Bay where rescued primates from different parts of the world live together. Hundreds of animals roam freely here in a setting designed to mimic their natural homes.
The sanctuary was created to give primates from closed zoos and private ownership a new home. It was among the first places of its kind to let different species live together in a forest-like setting.
The guides share stories about how primates live and interact with each other in natural groupings. You learn directly from them how these animals depend on forest life to thrive.
Visitors walk on elevated wooden paths through the forest to watch the animals without barriers between them. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the paths go through wooded terrain and sun exposure can be intense.
Visitors can observe nine different primate species living together at once, which is rare since these animals typically live apart. This unusual mix shows how different species can get along peacefully in the same space.
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