Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary- Plettenberg Bay’s Must-Do Wildlife Adventure on the Garden Route

Located in The Crags near Plettenberg Bay on South Africa’s iconic Garden Route, Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary is one of the top Things to do on the Garden Route, a truly unique nature and wildlife experience. As the world’s first free-roaming multi-species primate sanctuary, it’s an exciting, fun, family-friendly, and educational activity that appeals to couples, honeymooners, families, and wildlife lovers alike. 🐒🌿

A visit to Monkeyland feels like a wildlife safari in forest trails, a road trip adventure stop where you walk among over 550 rescued primates from around the world, including lemurs, gibbons, capuchins, howlers, and spider monkeys, all thriving in a natural indigenous forest setting. The sanctuary offers guided “monkey safari” tours that are informative and immersive, giving you the chance to observe these incredible creatures in their environment. Tours are typically about 45 minutes to an hour long and include highlights like a 128-metre suspension canopy bridge for panoramic forest views and close animal encounters, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

🕘 Operation Times & Details

• Hours: Daily 08:00 – 17:00 (open rain or shine, all-weather facility)
  
  

• Tours: Guided safari tours throughout the day, wheelchair accessible
  
  

• All Ages: An ideal family-friendly outing; also great for couples and bucket list travellers
  
  

Monkeyland isn’t just about monkeys, the sanctuary fosters conservation and education about wildlife, making it a meaningful and adventure-rich experience. You’re walking among animals living freely and learn about their lives and the bigger picture of animal welfare and habitat restoration.

🌟 Other Attractions at the Venue

• The Feeding Station Café: Refreshments and light bites (Restaurant on-site).
  
  

• Curio & Gift Shop: Take home unique souvenirs.
  
  

• Canopy Walk & Forest Viewing Decks: Fantastic photo opportunities.
  
  

• Optional Combo Tickets: Visit Birds of Eden and Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary for a full wildlife day.
  
  

📍 Contact & Booking

• Website: https://www.monkeyland.co.za/
  
  

• Phone: +27 (0)44 534 8906
  
  

• Email: info@monkeyland.co.za
  
  

• Address: Portion 11 & 12 of Kirbywood Farm, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, 6602
  
  

🍽️ Nearby Restaurants (Distances approx. from Monkeyland)

1. The Lookout – Iconic beachside spot with ocean views & contemporary menu; perfect after your nature adventure.
   
   

2. The Sanctuary Restaurant - Plettenberg Bay – Elegant fine dining in the heart of town; great for couples & romantic evenings.
   
   

3. Adi's Kitchen – Local favourite for hearty meals and friendly service in Plettenberg Bay.
   
   

4. Roadside Café Plettenberg Bay – Relaxed café with great coffee and pastries, ideal for families.
   
   

5. Sotto Mediterranean Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge – Stylish Mediterranean dishes and cocktails with a relaxed vibe.
   
   

🌾 Nearby Farm Stalls

• Natures Way Farm Stall – Highly rated stall with fresh produce & local treats, great stop en route.
  
  

• Elephant Walk Farm Stall – Classic farm stall with crafts, snacks & fun finds along the N2.
  
  

📍 Distances to Other Knysna / Garden Route Activities

• Distance to Knysna Charters: ~50 km (about 45–50 min)
  
  

• Distance to Knysna Scootours: ~50 km (about 45–50 min)
  
  

• Distance to Knysna Quad Bike Tours: ~50 km (about 45–50 min)
  
  

• Distance to Knysna Deep Sea Fishing Adventures: ~50 km (about 45–50 min)
  
  

• Distance to Knysna Kayak Hire: ~50 km (about 45–50 min)
  
  

⭐ Latest Visitor Reviews from Google & Tripadvisor

1. “Amazing experience for the whole family, monkeys roam freely and the guides are knowledgeable.” (5/5)
   
   

2. “Absolutely worth a visit! So many monkeys overhead and fun forest walk.” (5/5)
   
   

3. “The rope bridge and guided tour made it exciting and educational.” (5/5)
   
   

4. “Wonderful blend of wildlife, nature, and learning, perfect for bucket list travel.” (5/5)
   
   

5. “Great tour, lots of close encounters and gave insight into primate rehabilitation.” (5/5)