High in Punta Cana's Anamuya Mountains sits a leafy little sanctuary run by monkeys. Dozens of tame, clever squirrel monkeys roam free here — and more than a few will swing down for a shoulder ride, hoping you've packed a snack. An afternoon you won't soon forget.
We're headed to the far northern edge of Punta Cana, up into the hills, to a five-acre tropical hideaway with one very charming full-time staff…
Monkeys!
Dozens of squirrel monkeys make their home at this refuge in Punta Cana's Anamuya Mountains. They aren't native to the Dominican Republic, but the island's warm, lush climate is a dead ringer for their natural habitat — so they thrive.
Living out in the open, they're remarkably relaxed around people. Don't be surprised when one drops down from a branch to perch on your shoulder — usually with a hopeful eye on whatever might be tucked in your palm.
Hanging out with these little characters is the heart of the day. Highlights include:
All of it set against sweeping mountain scenery that pulls you far from the resort and deep into the Dominican countryside.
Monkeyland is a sought-after excursion, and the refuge caps daily visitors to protect the monkeys' wellbeing — so reserve your spot ahead of time.
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Sherrie Martinez
Aug 2026“The monkey feeding itself was maybe twenty minutes, which felt short after all that time in the truck. And that ride up is rough - hold on. Plantation part was actually the better half, the chocolate and mamajuana talk was interesting and nobody pressured us to buy anything.”
Chicago, IL · W Punta Cana
Juan Ratliff
Aug 2026“This ended up being the thing we talked about all week. The ride up passes through small villages and our guide explained what daily life looks like there, which gave the whole day some weight. Then the monkeys, they come straight down onto your head and shoulders once you hold out your hand, and the keepers make sure nobody gets left out. The photographer got shots we never could have taken ourselves. Afterward, the plantation walkthrough on coffee, cacao and mamajuana was genuinely informative and the tastings were generous. Worth every peso. ”
Levittown, PA · Majestic Elegance
Anthony Woodward
Aug 2026“Great excursion, adorable monkeys”
Shelby, MI · St. Regis Cap Cana
Megan Henry
Jul 2026“monkeys on my shoulders, loved it”
Brooklyn, NY · Bahia Principe Esmeralda
