Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary offers an unforgettable wildlife encounter where kids can observe over 1,000 playful long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat among ancient Balinese temples and lush jungle pathways. This unique combination of nature, culture, and adventure makes it one of Bali's most memorable family experiences, with well-maintained trails and educational opportunities about conservation.

• ✓Watching monkeys swing through trees, groom each other, and play with their babies in a natural jungle setting
• ✓Exploring three ancient sacred temples tucked throughout the forest dating back to the 14th century
• ✓Walking scenic jungle trails over bridges and past moss-covered statues and traditional Balinese architecture
• ✓Learning about primate conservation and the important role of sacred forests in Balinese Hindu culture
• ✓Observing scheduled feeding times when forest rangers distribute sweet potatoes to the monkey troops

1. 1.Visit early morning (8-9am) when monkeys are calmer, crowds are smaller, and temperatures are cooler for walking the forest trails.
2. 2.Secure all belongings before entering: remove dangling earrings, sunglasses, and put phones/cameras in zippered bags as monkeys are skilled at grabbing shiny objects.
3. 3.Do not bring or display food or water bottles inside the sanctuary as this attracts aggressive behavior from the monkeys.
4. 4.Teach kids not to make direct eye contact with monkeys or reach out to touch them, as this can be perceived as threatening.
5. 5.Hire a local guide at the entrance (small fee) who can educate your family about monkey behavior and help keep everyone safe during your visit.

Visit early morning between 8-9am on weekdays when the sanctuary is less crowded and monkeys are more active but calmer. Avoid midday heat and weekend crowds when tour groups arrive in large numbers.

While entrance is free, donations are encouraged to support conservation efforts. Wear closed-toe shoes for walking trails, and toilets and small cafes are available near the entrance. The forest involves uneven terrain and stairs, which may be challenging for strollers.

The sanctuary is open year-round. Visit during Bali's dry season (April to October) for the most comfortable walking conditions, though the forest remains lush and beautiful during wet season (November to March) when brief afternoon rains are common.

Warung Biah Biah, just outside the sanctuary, serves authentic Balinese dishes and kid-friendly options like nasi goreng (fried rice) and fresh fruit juices in a family-friendly garden setting. Alternatively, head to Ubud town center (5-minute drive) for numerous cafes and restaurants with international menus.