Ubud is a charming town located in the heart of Bali, Indonesia. It is known for its lush greenery, rice paddies, and traditional Balinese culture. One of the most popular attractions in Ubud is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, also known as the Monkey Forest.
The Monkey Forest is a natural forest sanctuary that is home to over 700 monkeys, all of which are free to roam around the area. It is a popular destination for families with kids, as it offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these playful creatures. However, it is important to be aware of the do’s and don’ts when visiting the Monkey Forest, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Getting There
Ubud Monkey Forest is located in the village of Padangtegal, Ubud, Bali. The Monkey Forest is easily accessible by car, scooter, or taxi. Visitors can also opt for a guided tour, which includes transportation to and from the forest.
If you’re staying in Ubud, the Monkey Forest is just a short walk away. It’s located in the heart of Ubud, so it’s easy to find. If you’re coming from outside of Ubud, there are a few different options for getting there.
If you’re driving, there is a parking lot located near the entrance of the Monkey Forest. The parking lot can get crowded during peak hours, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
If you’re taking a taxi, you can ask your driver to drop you off at the entrance of the Monkey Forest. Taxis are readily available in Ubud, and most drivers are familiar with the location of the Monkey Forest.
If you’re taking a guided tour, transportation to and from the forest is usually included in the tour package. The tour guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the Monkey Forest, and then bring you back to your hotel when the tour is over.
Ticket and Entrance
Visiting the Monkey Forest in Ubud is an exciting experience for both adults and children. However, before heading to the forest, it is important to know about the ticket and entrance process.
The entrance fee for adults is IDR 80,000 (approximately AU $8) and for children aged 3-12 years old, it is IDR 60,000 (approximately AU $6). Children under 3 years old can enter for free.
It is important to note that the Monkey Forest only accepts cash payments, so make sure to bring enough cash with you. There are no ATMs inside the forest, but there are several ATMs nearby. We prebought our tickets in advance from Klook which saved us having to have cash on us. We just had to show our digital tickets on our phone at the ticket desk when we arrived.
Keep in mind that the ticket is valid for one entry only. If you exit the forest, you will need to purchase a new ticket to re-enter. The forest is open daily from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
Once inside the Monkey Forest, you can purchase a ‘Selfie Wristband’ (again cash only) which gives you the opportunity to have pictures taken directly with the monkeys by the Monkey Forest staff using your own camera.
Rules and Safety
Visiting Monkey Forest in Ubud is an exciting experience for both adults and children. However, it is important to follow the rules and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone.
Rules
Here are some of the rules to keep in mind while visiting Monkey Forest:
- Do not touch, feed, or provoke the monkeys. They are wild animals and can become aggressive if they feel threatened.
- Keep a safe distance from the monkeys. Do not get too close or attempt to take selfies with them.
- Do not bring any food, drinks, or plastic bags into the forest. This can attract the monkeys and cause them to become aggressive.
- Do not bring any sharp objects or valuables into the forest. This can also attract the monkeys and cause them to steal or become aggressive.
- Stay on the designated paths and do not wander off into the forest. This can be dangerous and you may get lost.
- Do not run or make sudden movements around the monkeys. This can startle them and cause them to become aggressive.
Safety
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while visiting Monkey Forest:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. The forest can be slippery and muddy, so it is important to wear appropriate footwear.
- Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle with you.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your children at all times. The forest can be crowded and it is easy to get separated.
- If you do get bitten or scratched by a monkey, seek medical attention immediately. The monkeys can carry diseases and infections that can be harmful to humans.
- Follow the instructions of the staff and security personnel. They are there to ensure your safety and the safety of the monkeys.
Exploring the Monkey Forest
Visiting the Monkey Forest in Ubud with kids can be an exciting and educational experience. The lush greenery, ancient temples, and playful monkeys are sure to captivate both children and adults alike. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the monkeys are wild animals and should be treated with respect.
When exploring the Monkey Forest with kids, it’s important to keep a close eye on them at all times. The monkeys are known to be curious and mischievous, and may try to snatch food or other items from visitors. It’s best to leave any food or drinks in a secure bag or backpack, and avoid carrying anything that may attract the monkeys’ attention.
One of the highlights of the Monkey Forest is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, which is home to over 700 monkeys. The sanctuary is also home to three ancient temples, which offer a glimpse into Bali’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the temples and observe the monkeys in their natural habitat.
Another popular attraction in the Monkey Forest is the Monkey Bridge, which is a suspension bridge that spans the Wos River. The bridge offers stunning views of the forest and is a great spot for taking photos.
If you have a young child it is worth noting that the Monkey Forest contains lots of steps to get around so it might be best to opt for a baby carrier for your visit instead of bringing along your stroller.
Overall, exploring the Monkey Forest with kids can be a fun and educational experience. However, it’s important to keep safety in mind and respect the monkeys’ natural habitat. By following these guidelines, visitors can enjoy all that the Monkey Forest has to offer while also preserving the natural beauty of this unique destination.
Interacting with the Monkeys
Interacting with the monkeys in the Monkey Forest can be a fun and memorable experience for both kids and adults. However, it’s important to remember that these are wild animals and should be treated with respect. Here are some tips for interacting with the monkeys:
- Do not touch or feed the monkeys. This can be dangerous for both you and the monkeys. They may become aggressive or try to steal your belongings.
- Keep a safe distance from the monkeys. They may seem friendly, but they are still wild animals and can become unpredictable.
- Avoid direct eye contact with the monkeys. In their world, direct eye contact is a sign of aggression.
- Do not run or scream around the monkeys. This can also be seen as a sign of aggression and may cause the monkeys to become agitated.
It’s important to note that the monkeys in the Monkey Forest are used to human interaction and may approach you. If this happens, stay calm and keep a safe distance. If you feel uncomfortable or threatened, seek help from one of the staff members in the park.
My younger daughter did get a bit of fright when is accidentally caught the eye of a monkey, and it decided to chase her!
But, overall, interacting with the monkeys in the Monkey Forest can be a fun and memorable experience for kids and adults alike. By following these simple tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone.
What to Bring
When visiting the Monkey Forest in Ubud with kids, it is important to pack appropriately to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some items to consider bringing:
- Sunscreen: The Monkey Forest can be quite sunny, so it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Make sure to apply sunscreen on yourself and your kids before entering the park.
- Bug spray: Mosquitoes and other insects are prevalent in the park, so bringing bug spray can help prevent bites and discomfort.
- Water bottles: Staying hydrated is important, especially in hot and humid weather.
- Camera: With so many adorable monkeys around, you’ll want to capture some memories! Bring a camera or smartphone to take pictures and videos.
Additionally, avoid bringing any valuables or items that could be attractive to the monkeys, such as sunglasses, hats, or jewellery. The monkeys are known to be curious and may try to take items from visitors. We did witness a tourist have her face mask taken from her!
Other Activities Nearby
We spent about an hour visiting the Monkey Forest, but there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the Ubud area. We visited the Picheaven Swing after our visit, but here are a few more suggestions:
1. Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Located just a 20-minute drive from Ubud, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces offer stunning views of the Balinese countryside. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the terraces, and even try their hand at rice planting or harvesting.
2. Goa Gajah
Also known as the Elephant Cave, Goa Gajah is a historical site located just a few kilometers outside of Ubud. Visitors can explore the cave, which features intricate carvings and a small meditation area.
3. Bali Bird Park
The Bali Bird Park is located about a 30-minute drive from Ubud, and is home to over 1,000 birds from 250 different species. Visitors can watch bird shows, interact with the birds, and even hold them for photo opportunities.
4. Campuhan Ridge Walk
A popular hiking trail located in the heart of Ubud, the Campuhan Ridge Walk offers stunning views of the surrounding rice paddies and jungle. The trail is about 2 kilometres long and takes roughly 1-2 hours to complete.
5. Ubud Traditional Art Market
The Ubud Traditional Art Market is a bustling marketplace located in the centre of Ubud. Visitors can browse a wide variety of handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing items. Bargaining is expected, so be prepared to haggle for the best prices.
Conclusion
Visiting the Monkey Forest in Ubud with kids can be a fun and educational experience. The lush greenery, ancient temples, and playful monkeys make for a memorable day trip. However, it’s important to remember that the monkeys are wild animals and should be treated with respect.
Parents should take extra precautions when visiting with children, such as keeping a close eye on their kids and not feeding the monkeys.
Overall, the Monkey Forest is a must-visit destination for families travelling to Bali. With its unique blend of nature and culture, it’s sure to be a highlight of any trip. Just remember to be respectful of the monkeys and their habitat, and you’ll have a fantastic time exploring this magical place.
Read more of our reviews of Bali
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
After spending 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie McNichol made the move to Perth in 2010. As the Co-Founder and Editor of Buggybuddys, she has been able to use her experience and passion for helping families to create a trusted online resource for parents across Perth.
Jennie is the proud mother of two daughters, aged 14 & 12 and is a big advocate of the family-friendly lifestyle that Perth has to offer.
