World's Unique Free-Roaming Primate Paradise

Revolutionary Primate Experience Apenheul is a truly unique zoological concept where visitors walk among free-roaming primates in a beautiful forest setting. Founded in 1971, this specialized primate park houses over 300 monkeys and apes representing 35+ species from Africa, South America, and Asia. Unlike traditional zoos, many primates roam freely throughout the 55-hectare wooded park, creating authentic and magical encounters between humans and our closest animal relatives.

Unparalleled Primate Focus

• 300+ free-roaming primates representing 35+ species worldwide
• Forest setting - 55 hectares of beautiful woodland environment
• Direct encounters - Walk among squirrel monkeys, lemurs, and other species
• Conservation mission - Apenheul Nature Conservation Fund protecting primates globally
• Educational focus - Understanding primate behavior and human-animal connections

World's Premier Primate Park Apenheul pioneered the concept of free-roaming primate experiences and remains one of the world's most innovative primate parks. The name 'Apenheul' means 'Monkey Sanctuary' in Dutch, perfectly capturing the park's mission to provide a safe haven for primates while educating visitors about these remarkable animals.

Innovative Free-Roaming System

Free-Roaming Areas

• Squirrel monkeys leap through trees overhead and around visitors
• Ring-tailed lemurs wander freely along pathways
• Barbary macaques roam in designated forest areas
• Multiple species coexist in natural social groups

Secure Island Habitats

• Gorilla families on specially designed islands
• Orangutans in elevated forest environments
• Chimpanzees in spacious naturalistic enclosures
• Various monkey species in large, open habitats

Conservation Excellence The Apenheul Nature Conservation Fund, supported by visitor contributions, protects endangered primate species and their habitats worldwide. The park participates in international breeding programs and conducts important research on primate behavior and welfare.

Educational Innovation Apenheul combines entertainment with education, helping visitors understand the complex relationships between humans and primates while highlighting conservation challenges facing these species in the wild.