My favorite animal is a monkey. So, when I caught wind of a park where monkeys jump on you, I wanted to go there as soon as possible. After my visit, I had different opinions about the park.
The park where you can hang out with these monkeys is called the World of Birds. This park is open from 9:00 to 17:00. To enter the park, you have to pay R150, which is around €7.50. The park is known for its birds and is even said to be the largest bird park in South Africa. World of Birds has a goal: We want to bring wildlife to the people. To support conservation on a global scale by breeding rare birds and mammals in a protected environment and as natural a state as possible. This goal is interesting to me. I love animals immensely (except sharks) and find it exciting that we can get so close to these beautiful creatures.
Location of world of Birds
The world of Birds is located in Hout Bay. It is a 38-minute drive from the Cape Town city center.
Google maps location: World of Birds
The monkey jungle in World of birds
Even though the entire park revolves around birds, there were two animals that I most wanted to see. Turtles and monkeys. Extremely rare animals, so I had to go to the park. (; In the park, there is a monkey jungle that is open from 11:30 to 13:00 or from 14:00 to 15:30. It's highly recommended to be in the park during these hours, as you can then be in the jungle and with the monkeys. We entered after waiting in line for a bit, and together with a group, we were allowed into the jungle. We were warned to keep our belongings with us, but the monkeys didn't take anything from anyone during the time I was there. That's a shame; I love a little excitement. If I were a monkey, I would have definitely snagged a nice pair of sunglasses.
The jungle is quite small, so don't expect a jungle where you can't find your way back. There's fruit scattered everywhere that the monkeys eat. They also snack on insects that crawl by. I was lucky enough to see many baby monkeys clinging to their mothers' backs. It's so adorable. In total, there are 38 monkeys. They naturally come close and are very quick and curious. I've been told that a squirrel monkey lives for 15 years in the wild and 20 years in captivity. Good news, as it means we can enjoy these monkeys in the park for an extra 5 years.
Next, you sit in a circle in the mini jungle on a patch of fake grass with the group, and using monkey treats, the guides lure the monkeys towards the people. You also get treats placed on your head, so the monkeys will definitely jump onto your head. A male squirrel monkey weighs 750 to 1100 g and a female squirrel monkey weighs 500 to 750 g. The monkeys are very light, so it won't hurt at all. I found it so enjoyable to get up close to the monkeys and see so many of them. If you love monkeys and aren't afraid of them jumping on you, I would definitely recommend going. You can enjoy the monkeys for about 10 minutes, and then you'll have to leave the mini jungle.
What I don’t like about World of birds
The rest of the park is filled with so many more animals. I'll keep it as a surprise what else you'll see. However, there's something I find quite unfortunate. All the animals, especially the birds, live in incredibly small cages. I believe that especially birds and monkeys should have ample space, so the birds can fly freely and the monkeys can climb everywhere. Unfortunately, this wasn't the case. I feel that the park's goal doesn't align with the living space provided to the animals. This park might not be ideal for all vegans. (;
What's your opinion on the park? Do you also think that being with monkeys is one of the greatest things, but that the animals should have a bit more space? Let me know.