Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary - Image 1

Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary

Caehopkin, United Kingdom•4.3(1.6k)•Wildlife Center, Zoo

Rescue and explore home to 200+ rescued primates and animals in the Brecon Beacons, from chimpanzees to meerkats.

Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary is a working charity located in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales, dedicated to rescuing and providing permanent homes for unwanted primates and other animals. Founded in 1998, the sanctuary cares for over 200 animals representing more than 100 species, including chimpanzees, baboons, spider monkeys, vervets, capuchins, macaques, marmosets, serval cats, meerkats, and farm rescues. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on walk-around visits or book intimate Meet & Greet experiences with the resident animals. Each animal has a unique rescue story, from circus escapees like Bili the chimpanzee who travelled 4,000 miles to reach safety, to troops of baboons rescued from Portugal, Ireland, and Beirut. The sanctuary operates as a true sanctuary rather than a traditional zoo—there is no breeding programme, no wild imports, and no animals are supplied to other organisations. Open seven days a week (10:30am-5pm in summer, 10:30am-4pm in winter), the venue welcomes families of all ages, with free admission for children under 3 and discounted family tickets available. Every ticket purchase directly funds food, veterinary care, and habitat improvements for the residents. The sanctuary also offers adoption sponsorships, educational programmes, and volunteer opportunities for those wanting to support the animals' care.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:30 – 17:00
Tuesday: 10:30 – 17:00
Wednesday: 10:30 – 17:00
Thursday: 10:30 – 17:00
Friday: 10:30 – 17:00
Saturday: 10:30 – 17:00
Sunday: 10:30 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
Follow:

Google Reviews

4.3(1.6k reviews)
S
steve picton

steve picton

a month ago

Awesome sanctuary, had a meet and greet with the chimps, what an experience. Got to meet my adopted friend Ronnie who is a real character. Staff were super friendly and very knowledgeable, and obviously very caring towards the residents. Fantastic job all, can't wait to visit again 😁

C
Claire Kennedy

Claire Kennedy

3 months ago

Its a small sanctuary with a variety of lovely monkeys and apes! Please take into consideration the cost of keeping these animals and the amazing work the keepers do for the animals Look out for the very cheeky Ronnie who like to use gestures to the public ...thats all I will say on this A lovely place to kill and hour ans learn how these animals have been rescued ❤️

O
O Thomas

O Thomas

4 months ago

This is such a great place. The people working there were very friendly and welcoming. There are loads of toys and other things there to keep the animals entertained and interested. One of the ladies was going around feeding the animals, and you could tell how much she loved them from how she spoke to them and took time with them, also when she was fussing Rubea (and Rubea was loving it). I'll definitely be coming back and bringing more items from the wishlist. An amazing place.

J
James Barton

James Barton

9 months ago

Went here with friends and their nephew for an adventure and had a nice few hours looking round and seeing the animals. Interesting story of how it was founded and animals all had lots going on in cages to keep them occupied. Liked the story of where each animal came from and how they were rescued. Was interesting to find the cafe area had a charity shop section. While not the most accessible they had done a lot to make it as accessible as could be. But outside and on a slope there are obviously restrictions on what could be done.

D
DanC

DanC

10 months ago

Brilliant experience. I bought my wife a meeting and great with the apes. It's a lovely small Low key sanctuary. The staff know every animal and really care. We travelled from West Yorkshire over 4 hours to go and it was worth it. We stopped off on the way to get food for the apes and the lady showing my wife the apes made sure she got to feed her food to the apes and came away with loads of info on each individual ape. Thank you. We will be back😀

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary

Is Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary free to visit?

Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary suitable for?

Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary.

Is there parking at Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary?

Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary doesn't have parking — public transport is recommended.

Is there food at Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary?

Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary pushchair-friendly?

Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary?

Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary by public transport?

Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.

More wildlife centers near Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary

Kiddy Compass