Say hello to Monkey Haven, the Island’s gold award-winning primate rescue centre that makes animals happy – and people happy. It’s a place to relax, have fun in the fresh air and meet some amazing animals. The Island’s favourite sanctuary is a winner of VisitEngland’s Best Small Attraction, as well as being in TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame.
From the mighty Siamangs and Mueller’s gibbons to Mangabeys, Capuchins and the critically endangered Cotton-top tamarins, this special sanctuary cares for many different primate species making the Haven a truly wonderful place to visit.
You’ll come face to face with all kinds of rescued animals, including the singing Lar gibbons, meerkats, reptiles and birds of prey. You could even get the chance to handle a snake or meet an owl during one of the regular keeper talks and animal feeds throughout the day. Learn all about the fascinating creatures, their personalities, and how they came to be at the Haven. Many were rescued from tragic situations, found tied up in airports, or badly neglected by their previous owners.
The keepers have won a top award for their talks – VisitEngland’s Best Told Story, so don’t miss them!
There’s loads to see and do including…
Visit the fab new Capuchin House – This eco-friendly house is powered by solar energy and is a lovely spacious home for Peppino, Lulu and their tribe.
Have a hoot with the owls’ – meet the latest arrivals Coco and Nutmeg, the stunning Great Grey Owls at the daily owl talks.
Get up close to a snake at our ‘Reptile Rendezvous’ and meet some scaly friends in their Reptile Lodge, including a Chinese Water Dragon
FREE activity booklet for kids including a tiny treat trail.
Two fun play areas for children (under 5’s and over 5’s).
Pop into Xhabu’s Tea Room for hot and cold food and drinks, chill out at the Ice cream lodge or enjoy your own al fresco feast in the picnic areas.
Download the FREE awesome App. Follow trails, collect virtual bananas and see behind the scenes!
The sanctuary is a registered charity, and all proceeds from your visit will go towards caring for the animals you’ll meet. Recent rescues include the rare and endangered African Diana monkeys, Geoffroy’s marmosets and a pair of Great great owls. The Haven is also home to three different species of gibbon, including Xhabu the Siamang – a social media star on Instagram!
New for 2023 – Visit the fab new eco-friendly Capuchin House – it’s powered by solar energy and is a lovely spacious home for Peppino, Lulu and their tribe. Monkey Haven recently won a Gold award for Best Green Business 2022 and they are currently building another eco-friendly home to accommodate more rescues later this year. Both homes have been installed with webcams so you’ll be able to live stream monkey activity day and night!
Great Facilities
There is free Wifi, two kids’ play areas, a great shop and a lovely tea room where tasty treats are served throughout the day. The Haven has full disabled access and easy parking – and tickets are valid for a free return trip within 7 days!
Quiet Hour
The Quiet Hour is a time for people with hidden disabilities and additional needs, such as autism, to enjoy the Haven. The Quiet Hour runs from 9am to 10am on Wednesdays and Saturdays with the aim of making Monkey Haven more accessible to everyone. Doors open at 10am to all visitors, and anyone who has come for the Quiet Hour is welcome to stay on for as long as they wish.
Some of the resident monkeys love to sing and can be a bit noisy. The Haven can supply ear defenders to anyone who needs them.
Normal entrance fees apply, with free entry for a carer (please bring appropriate documentation). Pre-book tickets online for these sessions in advance to avoid disappointment.
Other recent awards 2022
Red Funnel Isle of Wight awards – Best Small Attraction Gold winner 2022, Best Green Business Gold winner 2022.
With more reasons to visit than ever before, don’t miss your chance to put this very special haven for rescued animals at the top of your Isle of Wight holiday itinerary.
They can’t wait to welcome you to their happy Haven.
For more of the latest news and events at Monkey Haven, click here
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