Hartbeespoort Dam, located just a short drive from Johannesburg, is a hidden gem for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts alike. One of the most popular attractions in the area is the Monkey Sanctuary, a haven for rescued and rehabilitated monkeys of various species.
As you enter the sanctuary, you are greeted by the lively chatter of dozens of monkeys swinging from tree to tree. The sanctuary is home to a variety of primates, including vervet monkeys, squirrel monkeys, and capuchins, all of which have been rescued from various unfortunate circumstances.
Visitors have the opportunity to take a guided tour of the sanctuary, learning about the individual stories of each monkey and the important conservation work being done to protect these endangered animals. The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the behavior and social dynamics of the monkeys, making for an educational and eye-opening experience.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Monkey Sanctuary is the chance to interact with the monkeys up close. Visitors can feed them, take photos, and even participate in the popular monkey forest walk, where you can walk among the monkeys in their natural habitat.
In addition to the monkeys, the sanctuary is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including birds and small mammals. The tranquil setting of the sanctuary, nestled in the lush forests of Hartbeespoort Dam, makes it the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.
Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, animal lover, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, a visit to the Monkey Sanctuary in Hartbeespoort Dam is sure to delight and inspire. So why not swing into adventure and explore this special place on your next visit to South Africa?
Conservation in Southern Africa is rapidly becoming unsustainable without the active involvement of the community, especially the younger, more active generation. The Bushbabies Monkey Sanctuary and The Elephant Sanctuary group strongly believe that we have to get the younger members of communities involved to instill a passion for the environment and wildlife in them through education.
I'll introduce you to Joyce, for example. A young female capuchin, she was rather pampered with child-like paraphernalia; a dress and a small hat around her head. Cute, indeed. She had been with her "foster" family since only two months old, bought straight from a breeder. The couple who owned her did not have children, and so decided to substitute the missing link with a primate, albeit a bit smaller...and with sharper teeth.
