Monkey Valley at ZSL London Zoo is a newly transformed habitat that offers visitors an up-close and personal encounter with the iconic Eastern black and white colobus monkeys. This landmark attraction, standing at the height of six London double-decker buses, provides a unique and immersive experience for visitors to witness the incredible leaping abilities of these primates.
Exhibit Details: Exploring the Monkey Valley
Monkey Valley spans an impressive 80ft above the Primrose Hill skyline, featuring a range of upgrades to create an authentic African forest environment for the colobus monkeys. Visitors can explore the exhibit and discover:
- More than 800 meters of rope for the monkeys to swing on
- 1,347 new plants and trees for the monkeys to leap amongst
- A 30ft waterfall and a peaceful lagoon, providing a serene setting
- Multi-level sunny and shaded basking spots for the monkeys to rest and relax
The highlight of the Monkey Valley experience is the opportunity to witness the colobus monkeys’ gravity-defying leaps, using their long hair as makeshift parachutes to glide from branch to branch. This awe-inspiring behavior is a true testament to the monkeys’ agility and adaptability.
Accessibility and Additional Experiences
While the Monkey Valley walkthrough may not be accessible for visitors with disabilities due to steps and space limitations, ZSL London Zoo offers an alternative experience called “Meet the Monkeys.” This experience allows visitors to feed and learn about the zoo’s inquisitive monkeys, including titi monkeys, lion-headed tamarins, and Goeldi’s monkeys.
The “Meet the Monkeys” experience is open to visitors of all ages and provides a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures. This experience is available on selected dates from 2:00 pm and costs £54 per person, with a 10% discount for ZSL Gold Members, Fellows, and Patrons.
Opening Times and Pricing
Monkey Valley at ZSL London Zoo is open to the public from Monday 15 August, with ZSL Gold Members, Fellows, and Patrons having exclusive access from Saturday 30 July.
For visitors interested in the “Meet the Monkeys” experience, it is recommended to check the zoo’s website for the latest information on availability and pricing.
Conclusion
Monkey Valley at ZSL London Zoo is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the incredible world of Eastern black and white colobus monkeys. With its immersive environment, unique features, and additional experiences, this exhibit offers a truly unforgettable encounter with these fascinating primates.
Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Monkey Valley is sure to leave a lasting impression and inspire a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.
References:
– London Zoo reveals brand new Monkey Valley. (2022-07-28). Retrieved from https://www.londonzoo.org/zoo-stories/news/london-zoo-reveals-brand-new-monkey-valley
– London Zoo reveals brand new Monkey Valley – YouTube. (2022-08-03). Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIkaXiN9a4k
– Meet the Monkeys | London Zoo. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.londonzoo.org/plan-your-visit/zoo-experiences/meet-the-monkeys-london-zoo
– Monkey Valley | London Zoo. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.londonzoo.org/whats-here/habitats/monkey-valley
– Squirrel monkeys | London Zoo. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.londonzoo.org/whats-here/habitats/squirrel-monkeys