Want to visit Monkeys? Here’s where to go in Puerto Plata!

photos from visitors with squirrel monkeys

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Monkey Jungle – Monkey Home – Monkey Land – Monkey Island

In the Puerto Plata area, there are currently four places where you can meet the adorable squirrel monkeys. But with so many options, which one should you choose? Don’t worry—I’ve visited them all! Here’s my personal experience with each location to help you decide.

Monkey Jungle

Nestled in the mountains, deep in the jungle

Monkey Jungle is a large park where you’ll truly feel like you’re stepping into the wild. The monkeys live in a lush, dense forest with towering trees. They roam freely, but as soon as they sense you have food, they’ll eagerly come to greet you!

Beyond being a fantastic experience with the monkeys, this park also supports a wonderful charity. Every Saturday, it provides free medical and dental care to the local community. There’s even an eye clinic where medications and glasses are donated thanks to visitor contributions. This initiative continues the legacy of Candy’s mother after the tragic passing of the park’s founders, Chuck and Candy, in a plane crash during a humanitarian mission.Downside: The road to Monkey Jungle is rough. From the main road in Sosúa, it takes about 45 minutes to reach the park. If you’re coming from Puerto Plata, expect a 1.5-hour drive, and from Cofresí, it could take almost two hours, depending on traffic

You can book this tour : Elbia Tours Puerto Plata

Monkey Home

Just 20 minutes away—intimate and interactive!

Monkey Home is the newest spot to visit squirrel monkeys, having opened in December 2024. It’s located on a plantation where you can see, smell, and taste various fruit trees and herbs depending on the season. You can also watch cigars being handcrafted.

The monkeys here live in a fenced-in area, but what stands out most is how playful and curious they are! Unlike other places, they don’t just approach when you have food—they genuinely love interacting with visitors. These mischievous little creatures will climb onto your shoulders, rummage through your pockets, and might even snatch your sunglasses if you’re not careful! It’s an up-close and personal experience that guarantees laughter.

This is currently my favorite place to visit the monkeys!

You can book this tour with Elbia Tours Puerto Plata. They combine Monkey Home with a City tour or with Damajagua Waterfalls.

Monkey Land

30 minutes from Puerto Plata—big and commercial

At Monkey Land, the monkeys are kept in a large cage, and visitors enter in groups. You’ll be seated on benches, given food, and the monkeys will jump from person to person.

Afterward, there’s a presentation where you can see how traditional coffee and cacao are made, followed by a tasting session. You’ll also learn about local products—before being encouraged to buy them.

My personal take: This place feels too commercial and crowded for my taste. But if you enjoy structured tours and don’t mind large groups, it might be a good fit for you!

Monkey Island

Exclusive to cruise passengers in Taino Bay

Unfortunately, Monkey Island is only accessible to cruise guests arriving at Taino Bay. Since it’s located within the port area and not open to outside visitors, I haven’t been able to check it out.

So, which monkey adventure is right for you?

Want a true jungle experience? Go for Monkey Jungle.
Looking for an intimate, interactive visit? Monkey Home is the best choice!
Prefer a structured tour with a mix of culture and shopping? Try Monkey Land.
Coming from a cruise? Your only option is Monkey Island.

Whichever you choose, you’re in for a fun and unforgettable experience!

Take a look at out partners

Elbia tours & Rondreizen santo domingo

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