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Apes' Den: Gibraltar's Primate Paradise

Encounter Europe's only wild monkeys at Apes' Den in Gibraltar's Nature Reserve, offering stunning views and unforgettable wildlife experiences.

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Apes' Den, located within the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe Barbary macaques, the only wild monkey population in Europe, in their natural habitat. This popular spot provides visitors with captivating views and close encounters with these playful primates.

A brief summary to Apes Den

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets to the Gibraltar Nature Reserve online in advance to save time and guarantee entry.
  • Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with the macaques.
  • Do not feed the monkeys, as it is illegal and can be harmful to their health.
  • Keep a close watch on your belongings, as the macaques are known to be curious and opportunistic.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the sometimes uneven terrain of the Upper Rock.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the main entrance of the Gibraltar Nature Reserve at Jews' Gate, follow the well-marked trails towards Old Queen's Road. The walk to Apes' Den takes approximately 20-30 minutes, offering scenic views along the way. Note that access to the Nature Reserve requires a ticket, priced at £30 for adults and £22 for children.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus to one of the stops near the Gibraltar Nature Reserve entrance, such as Morello's Ramp. From there, walk along the designated trails towards Apes' Den, following signs for Old Queen's Road. Bus fares typically cost a few euros for a single trip. Remember to factor in the entrance fee for the Nature Reserve (£30 for adults, £22 for children).

  • Cable Car

    Take the Gibraltar Cable Car from the base station near the Alameda Gardens to the Top Station. From the Top Station, walk down through the Upper Rock Nature Reserve towards Apes' Den. A one-way cable car ticket costs £16.50 for adults and £9 for children, in addition to the Nature Reserve entry fee (£30 for adults, £22 for children). During certain times of the year (typically April to October), the cable car does not stop at the Middle Station (Apes' Den), requiring a walk from the Top Station.

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Discover more about Apes Den

Apes' Den is a must-see attraction nestled within the Gibraltar Nature Reserve on the Upper Rock. It's renowned as home to the Barbary macaques, also known as Gibraltar monkeys, the only wild monkey population in Europe. These fascinating creatures, originally from the Atlas Mountains and Rif Mountains of Morocco, have become an iconic symbol of Gibraltar. Visitors to Apes' Den can witness the macaques' daily lives, observing their social interactions, grooming habits, and playful antics. The troop at Apes' Den, known as the Queen's Gate group, is particularly accustomed to human presence, often approaching and sometimes even climbing onto tourists. However, it's crucial to remember that these are still wild animals and should be treated with caution and respect. Feeding the macaques is prohibited and punishable by law. Beyond the monkeys, Apes' Den offers stunning panoramic views of the Rock of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea. The surrounding landscape invites exploration, with well-marked trails winding through the reserve, showcasing the area's diverse flora and fauna. While Apes' Den itself isn't a cave or den as the name might suggest, the area features historical remnants, such as a large hole bored into the rock that was once used as an experimental mortar by soldiers. According to local legend, the British will remain in Gibraltar as long as the Barbary macaques continue to thrive there. During World War II, when the macaque population dwindled, Winston Churchill famously ordered additional monkeys to be brought in from North Africa to ensure their survival. Today, the Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society and the Gibraltar Veterinary Clinic manage and care for the macaque population.

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