South West - Dorset
MONKEY WORLD - APE RESCUE CENTRE
Longthorns, Nr Wareham,
Dorset
BH20 6HH
t: 01929 462537
e: apes@monkeyworld.org
w: www.monkeyworld.org
Monkey World, the internationally-acclaimed ape rescue centre, is home to over 260 rescued and endangered monkeys and apes. Opened in 1987 to provide abused Spanish beach chimpanzees with a permanent home, the site is now a sanctuary for primates from all over the world including Europe’s official orangutan crèche. Many have been neglected, kept in unnatural conditions, or experienced unbelievable cruelty. At Monkey World, they can all enjoy the company of their own kind in a safe and natural environment.
In 2024, two infant orang-utans joined the nursery creche, Sibu Jr and Kiwi, after being orphaned from zoos in Europe. The infants, still under two years old, are now growing up with the expert care of the primate care team, and can see their adopted brothers and sisters playing in the nursery next to their own.
For over 20 years, Monkey World and its inhabitants have been the subject of documentaries on TV’s ‘Monkey Business’ and ‘Monkey Life’. From rescue to rehabilitation, the programs are a true to life soap opera following the lives of the monkeys and apes.
Combining fun with conservation and animal education, free half-hourly Q&A’s with the dedicated Primate Care Staff explain all about man’s closest living relative. They love to share their knowledge of all the individuals in their care, so don’t hesitate to ask any questions and have them point out your favourite from the TV programme!
All guided tours and talks are discounted for groups, and give a fantastic insight into Monkey World’s rescue & rehabilitation work, and how visitors to the park support worldwide primate rescue. For those who would like a less formal tour, self-guided audio tours are available, as well as pre-recorded keeper talks – all accessed easily by smartphone!
The park also includes a Woodland Walk, several play areas for children including the south’s largest adventure playground, so once the children have seen the primates, they can “monkey around” in the Great Ape Play area to let off steam. There are three main catering outlets that offer a range of hot and cold food, snacks, drinks and confectionery, or visitors are welcome to bring their own packed lunch and enjoy the beautiful Dorset countryside in one of the park’s many outdoor picnic areas.
Based in Wareham, Dorset, Monkey World has ample free parking for cars and coaches. Discounts are available for pre-booked groups, and Monkey World also offers free entry and hot drinks for the driver, and can conduct familiarization visits on prior request.
As a self-funded rescue centre, Monkey World simply could not have helped its 260+ residents without the ongoing support of the general public. Those who would like to provide ongoing support can “adopt” a primate, and will receive an annual pass to the park, as well as 3 updates throughout the year!
Open every day (except Christmas Day) from 10am to 5pm and last entry is one hour before closing. Booking forms can be found at www.monkeyworld.org or call 01929 462537.
EVENTS
Monkey World holds additional talks, activities and trails during the school holidays and for special events. Check the website www.monkeyworld.org/events for what’s on during your visit!
Great for Groups Check List
- Free coach parking on hard standing
- Marked coach drop-off point at entrance gate
- Free entry & hot drink for driver
- Discounted entry for groups of 10+
- Discounts on pre-booked talks and tours, including the self-guided audio tour
- Talks in designated room with hot drinks for groups
- Payment not due until 24 hours before entry
- Familiarization visits & group packs available on request
01929 462537
www.monkeyworld.org
apes@monkeyworld.org
Facebook: @MonkeyWorldApeRescue
Twitter:@MWApeRescue
Instagram: @MWApeRescue
Youtube: @MonkeyWorldOfficial
