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Apes' Den: Gibraltar's Macaque Haven
Observe playful Barbary macaques in their natural habitat at Gibraltar's Apes' Den, offering unique wildlife encounters and stunning panoramic views.
Apes' Den, located within the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe Barbary macaques, the only wild monkey population in Europe, in their natural habitat. It's a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers visiting Gibraltar.
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
If you are already within the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, follow the well-marked trails towards Apes' Den. From the main entrance, head towards Old Queen's Road, a scenic route through the reserve. The walk from the parking area to Apes' Den is approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Public Transport
Take a bus that services Gibraltar's main areas and disembark at the nearest bus stop to the entrance of Gibraltar Nature Reserve. From there, it's a short walk along the trails to Apes' Den. A single bus fare will cost a few euros. Note that the nearest bus station is Morello's Ramp, which is a 14-minute walk away.
Cable Car
Take the Cable Car from the base station near the Alameda Gardens to the Top Station. From there, walk down through the Nature Reserve towards Apes' Den. Note that between April and October, the cable car may not stop at the Middle Station. A Nature Reserve ticket, which includes access to Apes' Den, is required. Adult tickets cost £30.00, and child tickets (ages 5-11) cost £22.00.
Taxi
Taxis are available from the Gibraltar Airport or the cruise terminal. A taxi tour to the Upper Rock, including Apes' Den, typically costs around £22-£25 per person. Alternatively, a private taxi tour for up to 6 people costs £360. Ensure the price includes the Nature Reserve entry tickets.
Local tips
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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 monkeys, as it disrupts their natural foraging behavior and is strictly prohibited.
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Secure your belongings, as the macaques are known to be curious and opportunistic.
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Check the cable car schedule in advance, especially if visiting between April and October, when it may not stop at the Middle Station.
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Purchase a Gibraltar Nature Reserve ticket to access Apes' Den and other attractions within the reserve.
Discover more about Apes Den
Apes' Den is a popular attraction within the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, famed for its resident Barbary macaques. These monkeys, the only wild primates in Europe, are a major draw for tourists. The origin of the macaques in Gibraltar is shrouded in mystery, with some believing they arrived via a subterranean tunnel from Morocco. Legend has it that the British will leave Gibraltar if the macaques ever disappear, a belief that led Winston Churchill to import more macaques during WWII when their numbers dwindled.Today, several packs of macaques roam freely on the Rock's slopes. Apes' Den provides a designated area to observe these creatures as they play, groom, and forage. Visitors are advised to keep a safe distance and avoid feeding the monkeys, as it is prohibited and can be harmful to their well-being. The area also offers panoramic views of Gibraltar, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Strait of Gibraltar.While named Apes' Den, it's not a den or cave but rather an open area where the monkeys have made their home. Visitors between April and October should note that the cable car does not stop at the Middle Station, requiring a walk to or from the Top Station.
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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