MONKEY RESORT GIVES PERSONAL TOUCH

 By Frances Black - Projects Abroad

The Monkey Forest Resort is a charming and lively sanctuary for monkeys and numerous other animals, including turtles, snakes and antelopes, situated in Cape Coast. 

The sanctuary was established, built, and is owned by a Dutch couple seven years ago, and has proved to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Central Region, due on one hand to its impressive collection of monkeys – some are even endangered – and other animals, but also due equally to its owners, whose open, friendly and quirky personalities create a visit that feels unique and special, due to their laidback and genuine manner, their hilarious anecdotes about the animals, and their obvious devotion and love to them.

As a visitor it is clear that each monkey is treated as an individual, with abundant stories of their mischief and behaviour, which are a joy for animal lovers everywhere. The affection and friendship between the owners and the animals is heart-warmingly clear to see, and it is wholly reassuring to know that the monkeys are in such caring hands.

           

Also enhancing the experience is the resort’s layout and structure, which is built up a large hill; the views from its summit are breathtaking and spectacularly beautiful, and visitors can see for miles around, offering a perfect photo opportunity. Even more staggering is the impressive fact that the owners built the whole resort themselves, which stretches from the bottom of the hill, slowly working its way to the top with a number of paths and staircases.

           

All visitors will receive a guided tour around the sanctuary, in which they are shown each animal, which is normally accompanied by some information and interesting stories about it. Visitors will also have the opportunity to hold turtles on the top of the hill, and to take photos of some of the monkeys, although there a few for which photos are prohibited.

           

In addition to these attractions they are also in process of building a Mrs Doolittle Snackbar on the hill’s summit, and also guest houses for volunteers to stay in. This latest development will be an incredible opportunity for many animal enthusiasts, as volunteering would involve helping with the running of the resort, and invaluable experience and time with the monkeys.