One of the newest excursions in Punta Cana is the Monkeyland outing. Tourists choosing this Bavaro Runners excursion are taken to a close encounter with small squirrel monkeys on a farm in the Anamuya mountains. The monkeys are originally from Guyana and Suriname and now move freely among the trees in their new habitat.
The tour starts with a walk through the botanical gardens with its many medicinal plants, to learn about the native plants and flowers of the Dominican Republic. Monkey mama, Gwen Smith has trained them to feel comfortable with children and adults. Visitors will experience guided interactions with the 15 monkeys that live on the monkey farm, including several that are pregnant. There are opportunities for photos with the monkeys and the green countryside. Total time in the park is around two hours. This is a half-day excursion including the guided transfer with pickups from 52 hotels in the Punta Cana area.
It is a guided and educational tour, suitable for all ages. There is also a gift shop.
“Kids love it, and if children are scared we work with them so they become animal lovers,” says trainer Gwen Smith.