Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary

The Basics

Set in the mountains outside of Plettenberg Bay along the Garden Route, Monkeyland is a unique stop alongside the big game safaris, beaches, and wineries of South Africa’s popular tourist circuit. Take one of the hour-long guided walking safaris, held throughout the day. It's easy to visit the sanctuary on a day trip from Port Elizabeth or Mossel Bay. The sanctuary is also included on many multi-day tours from Cape Town.

Things to Know Before You Go

• This innovative and entertaining sanctuary is loved by kids, photographers, and conservationists.

• Monkeyland is dedicated to preservation and rehabilitation and has a no touching policy.

• The sanctuary and adjacent restaurant are wheelchair accessible.

• Visitors must stick with a guide throughout the half-mile (1 kilometer) walking safari.

How to Get There

Monkeyland is located in The Crags less than a half-hour drive from Plettenberg Bay. The sanctuary is 93 miles (150 kilometers) east of Mossel Bay and 150 miles (240 kilometers) west of Port Elizabeth on the N2. A sign for Monkeyland marks the turnoff from the N2. If you don’t have a car, you can visit the sanctuary on a guided tour that includes round-trip transportation.

When to Get There

Walking tours of Monkeyland are offered every 15 to 20 minutes between 8am and 5pm. The forest canopy provides protection from the hot sun or rain, so it makes for a pleasant visit regardless of weather.

The Primates of Monkeyland

Despite skepticism on the ability of multiple primate species to inhabit one cage-free location, Monkeyland was founded to offer a space for primates who were mistreated in captivity across the world. The sanctuary does not strive to collect certain species for viewer’s entertainment but instead prioritizes the primates that are the most in need of a safe haven. Today, 11 species of monkeys, langurs, and lemurs live together in the 30-acre (12-hectare) preserve.