Apenheul Primate Park
Gelderland
Apenheul Primate Park, located in Apeldoorn, Gelderland, is a pioneering zoo specializing exclusively in primates. Established in 1971, it was the first zoo worldwide to allow monkeys to roam freely among visitors in a forest environment, creating an immersive and naturalistic experience. The park houses over 30 species of primates, including notable species such as bonobos, gorillas, orangutans, and various lemurs and monkeys from Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Visitors can explore multiple free-roaming areas where species like the black-and-white ruffed lemur and the woolly monkey interact naturally. The park also features a unique 11-meter high lookout tower offering views of the largest gorilla family in the Netherlands. Regular feeding presentations and keeper talks enhance the educational experience. The park's commitment to conservation and naturalistic habitats makes it a beloved destination for both families and primate enthusiasts.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Apenheul is during spring and summer when the primates are most active outdoors. It is advisable to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues and benefit from seasonal discounts or season passes. The park offers free activity maps and guided feeding presentations, enhancing the visitor experience. Public transport connections include the former Veluwe Tour bus line, facilitating access from nearby cities. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the forest terrain.
Faits intéressants
- •Apenheul was the first zoo in the world where monkeys were allowed to roam freely among visitors in a forest environment.
- •The park witnessed the birth of only the second healthy gorilla baby in captivity in the Netherlands in 1979, which was raised by its own mother-a rare event.
- •Apenheul houses over 30 primate species, including rare species like the bonobo and Bornean orangutan.
- •In 2011, the park celebrated its 40th anniversary by introducing proboscis monkeys from Singapore Zoo.
- •The park features a unique 11-meter high lookout tower to observe the largest gorilla family in the Netherlands.
Histoire
Apenheul Primate Park was conceived in the 1960s by photographer Wim Mager, who envisioned a safe haven ('heul') for monkeys ('apen') in a natural forest setting.
Opening in 1971, it revolutionized zoo design by allowing monkeys to roam freely among visitors.
The park expanded steadily, introducing gorillas in 1976 and witnessing one of the first successful gorilla births in captivity in the Netherlands in 1979.
A tragic fire in 1981 destroyed a cabin and resulted in the loss of 46 monkeys, prompting rebuilding efforts.
Over the decades, the park has grown to house about 70 animal species, with a focus on primates from various continents.
Guide du lieu
Free-Roaming Monkey Areas
These forested zones allow various monkey species to move freely among visitors, creating an interactive and natural experience. Species such as squirrel monkeys and woolly monkeys can be observed up close in their natural behaviors.
Gorilla Enclosure and Lookout Tower
Home to the largest gorilla family in the Netherlands, this area includes an 11-meter high lookout tower offering panoramic views of the gorillas and surrounding forest.
Feeding Presentations and Keeper Talks
Scheduled sessions where visitors can learn about primate behavior, diet, and conservation efforts directly from the keepers, enhancing educational engagement.
Contact
Téléphone: 055 357 5757
