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Apes' Den: Gibraltar's Mischievous Macaques

Observe playful Barbary macaques in their natural habitat at Apes' Den, Gibraltar's unique and iconic primate sanctuary.

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Apes' Den, located within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, is home to the famous Barbary macaques, Europe's only wild monkey population. Observe these playful creatures in their natural habitat and enjoy stunning views.

A brief summary to Apes Den

Local tips

  • Do not feed the monkeys! It's illegal and harmful to their well-being.
  • Secure your belongings, as the macaques are known to be curious and opportunistic.
  • Maintain a safe distance and avoid sudden movements or loud noises to prevent startling the monkeys.
  • Visit during the cooler months (November to March) when the cable car stops at the Middle Station for easier access.
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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,' a scenic route through the reserve. The walk from the parking area to Apes' Den is approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Be prepared for a moderately steep walk.

  • Cable Car

    Take the cable car from the base station near the Alameda Botanical Gardens to the Top Station. From there, walk downhill through the Nature Reserve towards Apes' Den. Note that the cable car does not stop at the Middle Station (Apes' Den) between April and October. A round-trip cable car ticket costs approximately £30 for adults and £22 for children (ages 5-11).

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus that services Gibraltar's main areas and disembark at the nearest bus stop to the entrance of the Gibraltar Nature Reserve. From the bus stop, walk towards the reserve entrance and follow the trails marked towards Apes' Den. Bus routes 10, 1, N1, N8 S and 2 can be used to get to Apes' Den. A single bus fare costs around £2.

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Discover more about Apes Den

Apes' Den is a must-see attraction in Gibraltar, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe Barbary macaques in their natural environment. These fascinating creatures, often called apes but actually monkeys, are the only wild primates in Europe and a major draw for tourists. The Apes' Den isn't a den in the traditional sense, but rather an open area near the middle cable car station where a troop of macaques, known as the Queen's Gate group, resides. Here, you can witness their lively antics, from grooming each other to playfully climbing trees and interacting with their surroundings. Be aware that between April and October, the cable car does not stop at the Middle Station. Legend has it that the macaques' presence is linked to British rule, with a superstition stating that if the monkeys ever disappear, the British will leave Gibraltar. During World War II, when the macaque population dwindled, Winston Churchill famously imported more from North Africa to ensure their survival. Today, the macaque population thrives, with several packs roaming freely throughout the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. While observing the macaques is a highlight, visitors should exercise caution and adhere to guidelines. It's illegal and harmful to touch or feed the monkeys, as it disrupts their natural behavior and can lead to aggressive behavior. Keep a safe distance, secure your belongings, and avoid sudden movements or loud noises. Beyond the macaques, Apes' Den offers stunning panoramic views of Gibraltar and the surrounding Mediterranean Sea. The location also features historical elements, including a large hole bored into the rock that was once used as an experimental mortar.

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