The Monkey Sanctuary

The Monkey Sanctuary Trust is situated in beautiful woodlands overlooking Looe Bay. For nearly 50 years the Victorian house & gardens have been home to a colony of woolly monkeys. It is now also home to 3 species of monkey including a number of capuchin monkeys, victims of the UK pet trade.

The sanctuary has nearly 50 years of experience caring for South American primates and prides itself on the quality of this care and the consideration of the monkeys as individuals.

Formal talks, presentations and indoor displays give visitors the chance to learn about every aspect of woolly and capuchin monkey life. Come and hear about these agile, sensitive animals and the problems they face in the wild and in captivity. Keepers are on hand throughout the day, explaining the monkeys' complex social behaviour.

See how a sanctuary works and talk to the keepers about caring for the daily needs of the monkeys, as well as conservation in South America. Gain a unique insight into the woolly monkeys’ individual characters and the daily interactions in the colony.

At the sanctuary our monkeys enjoy specially designed territories of interlinked enclosures. An innovative ‘climb-proof’ fence allows the woolly monkeys the challenges of climbing the towering beech trees, swinging on ropes and foraging for insects and plants. We provide daily enrichment puzzles for the inquisitive capuchins.

Also on site for you to enjoy are our wildlife gardens, café, children's play area, bat cam and activities room. There is also a gift shop and picnic area, plus parking is free. School visits and coach parties welcome by appointment. Some disabled access.

See www.monkeysanctuary.org for more details

OPEN: April – October, Sunday to Thursday 11am - 4.30pm. Closed Fridays and Saturdays – check the website for special open dates.