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Apes' Den: Gibraltar's Playful Primates

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Observe playful Barbary macaques in their natural habitat at Gibraltar's Apes' Den, offering stunning views and a unique wildlife experience.

Apes' Den, located within the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, offers an unforgettable opportunity to observe Barbary macaques, the only wild monkeys in Europe, in their natural habitat. Witness their playful interactions and enjoy panoramic views of the Rock of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea.

A brief summary to Apes Den

  • 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
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Apes Den.

  • Maintain a safe distance from the macaques and avoid direct eye contact.
  • Do not feed the monkeys, as human food can be harmful to their health.
  • Keep your belongings secure, as the macaques are known to be curious and opportunistic.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are already within the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, the best way to reach Apes' Den is by walking. Follow the well-marked trails towards 'Old Queen's Road,' a scenic route through the reserve. The walk from the main entrance to Apes' Den takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • 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 there, it's a short walk along the trails to Apes' Den. A single bus fare will cost a few euros. Note that the Upper Rock Nature Reserve and Upper Rock are NOT accessible to visitors using private vehicles.

  • Cable Car

    Take the Gibraltar Cable Car from Grand Parade to the Top Station. From the top, walk down through the Nature Reserve towards Apes' Den. A round trip ticket including the Nature Reserve costs £49.00 for adults and £31.00 for children (4-11 years). A one-way ticket including the Nature Reserve costs £46.50 for adults. Note that between April and October, the cable car does not stop at the Middle Station.

Discover more about Apes Den

Apes' Den is a must-see attraction located within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve in Gibraltar. It provides a unique opportunity to observe Barbary macaques, also known as Barbary apes, in their natural environment. These fascinating primates are the only wild monkey population in Europe and have been present in Gibraltar for centuries.Visitors to Apes' Den can witness the daily routines, social interactions, and playful antics of these intriguing creatures. The macaques are known for their curious and mischievous nature, often interacting with visitors. However, it's important to remember that they are wild animals and should be observed respectfully and from a safe distance. Feeding the macaques is strictly prohibited as it can harm their health and alter their natural behavior.In addition to the macaques, Apes' Den offers stunning panoramic views of the Rock of Gibraltar, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Iberian Peninsula. The surrounding landscape is lush and inviting, with well-marked trails that allow visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem. Apes' Den is easily accessible by walking, driving, or taking the cable car.
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