berberaap02.jpg
Visitor information Free ranging monkeys

Free ranging monkeys

Only in Apenheul!

Apenheul Primate Park is unique. There is no other zoo in the world where you will find so many primates roaming freely among the visitors: more than 200 of them! The monkeys are very friendly and harmless for you and your children, and they will show themselves at close range. However, to enjoy them most, you need to adhere to a few simple house rules.




‘Monkeyproof’ bags

Primates are naturally curious and they are always looking for food. Human food is not good for them. Candy and medicines in particular can make them sick. Do not let the monkeys get into your pockets or bag. You can leave your personal belongings in free lockers at the entrance of Apenheul. If you would rather take them with you, Apenheul will provide you with a ‘monkeyproof bag’ that you can return to us when leaving the park. These special bags cannot be opened by the monkeys. The monkeys have no interest in photo- and videocameras, so you can carry these around your shoulder like everywhere else.

Facebook Twitter Hyves

Petting will be misunderstood

Monkeys aren’t pets. When you (try to) touch a monkey, it will think that you are intending to do harm. Picking up a monkey will frighten it badly. So let the monkeys go their own way. You will enjoy watching them behave naturally.

We take very good care of the primates

Please do not feed the animals. All of our primates are on special diets. Human food, peanuts, candy or other fruit are not a part of this diet. Feeding these can make them very sick.

Eat if you want to, but…

…only in the areas without free ranging monkeys. Otherwise, before you know it, the quick monkeys will have taken your sandwich or candy. There are areas where you can eat and drink, sometimes with a view of the primates on large islands . Apenheul also has a restaurant and a kiosk with outside terraces where you can enjoy a meal.

Discover the monkeys

Many of the primates in Apenheul can move freely through the trees. Sometimes it can be hard to see them, but with a little patience you will discover them, very nearby, playing among the branches. What can be more fascinating then ‘discovering’ a monkey between the leaves?