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Apes' Den: Gibraltar's Mischievous Macaque Haven
Meet the famous Barbary macaques at Apes' Den, Gibraltar, the only wild monkey population in Europe, offering unique wildlife encounters and stunning views.
Apes' Den, located within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve in Gibraltar, offers an up-close encounter with the famous Barbary macaques, the only wild monkey population in Europe. These playful primates roam freely, providing visitors with a unique and memorable wildlife experience.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Apes Den
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Old Queen's Rd, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI
Monday
9:30 am-7:15 pm
Tuesday
9:30 am-7:15 pm
Wednesday
9:30 am-7:15 pm
Thursday
9:30 am-7:15 pm
Friday
9:30 am-7:15 pm
Saturday
9:30 am-7:15 pm
Sunday
9:30 am-7:15 pm
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Getting There
Walking
From the main entrance of the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, follow the well-marked trails towards 'Old Queen's Road'. This scenic route leads through the reserve to Apes' Den, approximately a 15-20 minute walk from the parking area. Note that the Upper Rock Nature Reserve is not accessible to visitors using private vehicles.
Public Transport
Take a bus that services Gibraltar's main areas and disembark at the bus stop nearest to the entrance of the Gibraltar Nature Reserve. From there, walk along Old Queen's Road for approximately 15 minutes to reach Apes' Den. A single bus fare is approximately £1.00. Note that the Upper Rock Nature Reserve is not accessible to visitors using private vehicles.
Cable Car
Take the Gibraltar Cable Car to the Top Station. From there, walk downhill through the Nature Reserve towards Apes' Den, approximately 15-20 minutes from St. Michael's Cave. A Nature Reserve ticket is required to access the area. As of July 2025, a Nature Reserve ticket costs £30.00 for adults and £22.00 for children (ages 5-11). Note that between April and October, the cable car does not stop at the Middle Station.
Local tips
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Be mindful of your belongings, as the macaques are known to snatch food and other items from bags.
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Maintain a safe distance from the macaques and avoid direct eye contact to prevent startling them.
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Do not feed the macaques, as it disrupts their natural foraging behavior and can harm their health.
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Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with the macaques.
Discover more about Apes Den
Apes' Den is a popular attraction on the Rock of Gibraltar, offering visitors a chance to observe and interact with the Barbary macaques in their natural habitat. These fascinating creatures, also known as Barbary apes, are actually monkeys and are the only wild primate population in Europe.The troop at Apes' Den, known as the Queen's Gate group, is known for its inquisitiveness and opportunistic behavior. While seemingly tame, they are still wild animals and can bite or scratch if frightened or upset. Visitors are advised to keep a safe distance and avoid direct interaction. Feeding the macaques is strictly prohibited to maintain their natural foraging habits.Located near the Middle Station of the Gibraltar Cable Car, Apes' Den is easily accessible. The area isn't a den or cave, but an open space where the monkeys have made their home. Besides the macaques, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Gibraltar and the surrounding sea.Legend says that the British will leave Gibraltar if the macaques ever disappear. During World War II, when the macaque population dwindled, Winston Churchill imported additional animals from North Africa to bolster their numbers. Today, the macaque population is thriving, making Apes' Den a must-see attraction for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
A brief summary to Apes Den
Use Apes Den as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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