Many people love monkeys for their playful behaviour and similarity to humans. Seeing these captivating primates up close is a fascinating day out.
Dorset is home to the award-winning Monkey World, a sanctuary for abused monkeys that provides a safe environment for them to thrive without being treated badly or unnaturally.
Here’s what to look forward to during your visit.
The 65-acre park, which is home to over 250 primates, was established in 1987 by Jim Cronin.
He wanted to provide abused monkeys with a permanent and stable home.
Since the 1980s, Monkey World has worked with governments worldwide to stop the smuggling of primates from the wild.
Many monkeys have been rescued from around the world and used as props for photographers, in laboratories, as exotic pets, in the circus and other unspeakable situations.
Chimpanzees, for example, are taken from their families when they are young, smuggled out of Africa and sold illegally.
Another example of the harsh lifestyles these primates have lived are Spanish beach chimps, forced to dress up as humans and work in tourist spots for up to 16 hours a day, sometimes drugged or beaten by their owners.
When they turn 4, they will often become uncontrollable and will be killed to make way for a younger chimp.
At Monkey World, you can see the haven that has been created to give these monkeys a better way of life.
Some have to be rehabilitated, and the females are put on birth control.
After being rescued, the chimps are placed in large social groups in natural living environments to provide comfort and support.
Upon entering, visitors are free to wander around the park, exploring the different enclosures.
You can encounter woolly monkeys, chimpanzees, orangutans, spider monkeys, lemurs, small monkeys and more.
At the enclosures, you can watch or listen to the Keeper’s Talks by scanning the QR code when you reach the various spots.
Here, you can learn all about the monkeys.
The keepers also hold regular Q&A sessions, which give visitors an insight into the monkeys’ lives, personalities, rescue stories and life in the park.
There are three adventure playgrounds in the park, perfect for little ones to let loose and become monkeys by climbing the frames, sliding down the slides and having fun on the swings.
There are several picnic tables around the park, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a packed lunch in the sunshine.
Alternatively, you can dine in the two cafes and several kiosks, which offer hot drinks, sandwiches, light bites and ice cream.
🐵 With sustainability at the forefront, the park uses biodegradable materials, plates and cups throughout. All the food is palm oil-free.
There is also a large gift shop offering lots of interesting gifts and souvenirs. You can find clothing, bags, toys, teddies, confectionary and more, a perfect way to remember your day out at Monkey World.
A number of events are held throughout the year, including home education days, 50% for locals in January and more.
Monkey World has also been featured in many TV shows, including Monkey Life, Animal Hospital, Nature Watch and so on.
These shows showcase the loveable primates and the hard work the dedicated staff puts into giving the monkeys the best possible life after their abusive pasts.
Monkey World is great for all ages and is a perfect day out, offering a unique and educational experience.
To find out more, visit the Monkey World website here.
📍 Tout Hill, Longthorns, Wareham BH20 6HH
