Monkeyland opened its doors to the public
on the 6th of April 1998. Our unique primate sanctuary is
currently the top eco-tourism attraction on the Garden Route
and for very sound and sunny reasons. Monkeyland has captured
the hearts of visitors in its efforts to rehabilitate and
free previously caged primates. The sanctuary is exceptional
as it caters for several species of primateswho are not
caged. They are free to move about the forest and this they
do most harmoniously.
At Monkeyland, the
emphasis on searching for the primates, and the reward is
to see the various species as they are meant to be: free
and in a natural habitat. The transfer of information about
these fascinating creatures enhances your visit to the sanctuary
during a safari. The safaris are conducted by multi-lingual
game rangers and are fun, exciting and educational. Our
guests leave our sanctuary with a greater understanding
of the primates of the world and the threats they
are facing.
On the guided safaris
you can expect to see a variety of primates, ranging from
the Gibbons of Asia to the Lemurs of Madagascar. The knowledgeable
rangers will tell you all about these fascinating mammals
as you encounter them roaming free in the forest. They also
point out, identify and explain the many wonders of life
in the forest, from the rich diversity of bird life to the
intricate workings of the forest itself.
Situated in an eco-sensitive location,
16 km East of Plettenberg Bay, Monkeyland has found its
niche and works hand in hand with interest groups to enhance
conservation-orientated tourism in the area. In doing so,
Monkeyland helps to preserve the Garden Route's natural
beauty. Monkeyland's prime location on 23 hectares of indigenous
forest and the free-roaming aspect of the sanctuary enable
us to convey a positive environmental message in ways that
are both interesting and memorable to all age groups.
for animals as merely a place where animals are protected
from hunting. A true sanctuary for primates should, however,
also be a place of refuge to protect them from much more
than hunting and/or the pet trade. They must also be protected
against exploitation, abuse, neglect and improper care.
who live here with a stable environment,
one with permanence and where there is definitely no exploitation.
At Monkeyland, care exceeds the regulations regarding animal
welfare. Monkeyland is, most importantly, a place where
primates are rehabilitated both physically and emotionally.
We strive to achieve an effective balance between conservation
and economic reality. It is therefore tourism driven and
totally sustainable. A monkey safari is much more than just
an unforgettable forest adventure; it is the vehicle that
allows you to become part of our rehabilitation process.
It
is because of sanctuaries such as Monkeyland which go beyond
idealism, and who strive to do something positive, that
we can look forward to a more optimistic future.