VIP Sanctuary, Short Visit

Overview

This is a hands-on sanctuary visit in Punta Cana run by Monkey House VIP, and the name is accurate on both counts. The monkeys are not behind glass. They climb onto visitors and are handled by trainers who stay close throughout the session. Reviewers repeatedly describe the animals as well cared for and the staff as energetic and knowledgeable, happy to talk through lifespans, diets, origins and the differences between species. One reviewer mentioned the variety of monkeys here.

The experience runs about two hours and thirty minutes. Hotel pickup is not stated; confirm on the booking page. Cameras are allowed in the second part of the visit, while belongings are stored in the first. Group sizes can reach forty travellers, though the interactions themselves are managed by the resident trainers, who bring the monkeys to guests and keep the mood playful.

It suits travellers who want contact rather than observation, including families, since pushchairs and wheelchairs are both accommodated and infants can sit on laps. It suits less well anyone who would rather not have several monkeys on them at once. Expect to leave a little dirty, as one reviewer put it, and to be offered souvenirs and photo packages along the way.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. First partIn the first part of the visit, belongings are stored and cameras are not in use.
2. Second partIn the second part you can use your own camera as you interact with the monkeys, which come right up to you under the trainers' supervision.
3. DurationThe experience lasts two hours and thirty minutes in total. No further breakdown is available.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will shape whether this visit is a good fit.

• Monkeys climb on you. Several reviewers are explicit that the monkeys are free to climb on guests. One reported six to eight monkeys on them at once. Anyone who would find that overwhelming, or who wants a look-don't-touch zoo experience, should pick something else.
• Cameras in part two. Cameras can be used in the second part of the visit, while belongings are stored during the first. Bring a camera or phone, but expect not to have it out the entire time.
• Photo extras cost more. Reviewers mention an on-site photo package that they consider pricey. One reported pricing by couple and individual, delivered digitally rather than printed. Taking your own photos in the second part is the alternative.
• Accessible for most. The site is wheelchair and pushchair accessible and near public transport; hotel pickup is not stated, so confirm on the booking page. Infants must sit on laps.
• Busy group feel. The tour caps at forty travellers, and reviewers describe the atmosphere as chaotic and fun. The trainers manage the interactions, but this is a lively group setting rather than a quiet one.
• You will get dirty. One reviewer warns to expect to leave a little dirty, and hands-on contact with the park's monkeys makes that realistic. Wear clothes that can take it.

Common issues. The main complaints are about cost and crowding rather than the animals. Several reviewers found the photo package expensive, and one traveller felt the staff brought too many monkeys at once and dismissed their discomfort. Group sizes can reach forty, so the pace is lively rather than calm. Souvenirs are offered for purchase during the visit. Cancellation is strict: no refund if you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, and changes inside that window are not accepted.

Common Questions