Monkey World – Wareham

Monkey World is a world-renowned 65-acre ape rescue centre and sanctuary that provides a safe haven for over 250 rescued and endangered primates.

Location & Logistics
Where it is: It is located in Wareham, Dorset (Postcode: BH20 6HH). It sits on the A31 between Bere Regis and Wool.
Typical Duration: Most visitors spend between 3 to 5 hours exploring the park. A full half-day is generally recommended to see everything at a relaxed pace.
Who it’s for: It is best suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and animal lovers. The park is highly accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, making it ideal for all ages.

What You Can Do
Observe Primates: View over 20 species, including the largest group of chimpanzees outside of Africa and three groups of orangutans.
Educational Talks: Attend daily keeper Q&A sessions or listen to pre-recorded talks via QR codes at enclosures to learn about the animals’ often harrowing rescue stories.
Play Areas: Children can “monkey around” in the Great Ape Play Area, which is the largest of its kind in the south of England.
Guided Tours: Private 75-minute walking tours or buggy tours (for those with restricted mobility) can be pre-booked for a deeper insight into the sanctuary’s work.

What Makes It Unique
Unlike a traditional zoo, Monkey World is a sanctuary where breeding is not the primary mission (except for endangered species). It is home to Europe’s only orangutan crèche, where orphaned or abandoned orangutans from across the continent are raised. The park’s layout prioritises animal welfare, with large enclosures designed to mimic natural social groups.

Best Times to Visit
Time of Day: Mornings are often best as primates are fed and most active. Avoid arriving exactly at opening (10:00 am) if you want to see them immediately, as they may still be waking up.
Seasonal: July and August offer extended opening hours (until 6:00 pm).
Weather: Most of the park is outdoors; dry, sunny days are best for seeing animals in their large outdoor spaces, though indoor viewing areas are available for wet weather.
Offers, Memberships & Booking Tips
Primate Adoption (Annual Pass): Adopting a primate is a popular choice; it includes a FREE annual pass for the adopter, allowing unlimited entry for a year.
Online Booking: Tickets are typically cheaper when pre-booked online through the Monkey World Official Site.
Local Resident Discount: Residents in local areas sometimes receive a 50% discount during specific months like January.
Group Rates: Discounts are available for pre-booked groups of 10 or more.
Mobility Perks: Adoptive parents can receive a 20% discount on mobility scooter hires from local partners