Apenheul Primate Park, Primate park in Apeldoorn, Netherlands.
Apenheul Primate Park is a zoo in Apeldoorn where roughly 300 primates from about 33 species live across a forested setting with few barriers between them and visitors. The park is laid out so guests can walk through the woodland and observe animals moving freely in their space.
The park was founded in 1971 by photographer Wim Mager and became the first place in the world where monkeys could roam freely among visitors in a forest environment. This approach later influenced how other zoos and animal parks around the globe were designed.
The park offers daily demonstrations where staff explain how primates behave and communicate, helping visitors understand the social lives of these animals in ways that feel personal and immediate.
Staff provide guidance at entry about securing personal items, as several monkey species move freely throughout the park and may grab at bags or glasses. Keeping valuables close and following these instructions helps ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
The park is home to the world's largest insect hotel, a massive structure that helps support local wildlife and biodiversity in the forest. This impressive installation shows that caring for small creatures matters just as much as caring for the primates that visit regularly.
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