Dominican Republic: Private Monkey House Tour & Animal Encounters

Summary

Private monkey encounter in Dominican Republic with feeding and photos

You’ll step into Monkey House for a private encounter with four different monkey species in the Dominican Republic. Feed them fruit, bottle-feed babies, laugh with guides who know every animal’s quirks, and take home professional photos. It’s hands-on from start to finish — you’ll leave feeling part of their world for a day.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure what to expect when we pulled up outside Monkey House in the Dominican Republic — the place is tucked away behind some palms, not flashy at all. Our guide, Ana, greeted us with this easy smile and handed me a chunk of papaya before I’d even figured out where to stand. The air smelled like ripe fruit and a bit of wet earth from last night’s rain. Before I knew it, there was a squirrel monkey perched on my shoulder (light as a feather, honestly) and Ana was laughing at my face — apparently they can sense nervous energy. She explained each species as they came over: black cappuccino (who looked like he’d seen it all), crying cappuccino (named for their little squeaks), African green monkey, and those squirrel monkeys darting everywhere.

I never thought I’d bottle-feed a baby monkey but there I was, holding this tiny thing while it wrapped its fingers around mine — their hands feel almost human but softer. Ana showed us how to feed them fruit too (they love bananas but turn their noses up at mangoes — who knew?). There weren’t many people around; just our small group and another couple taking photos with the pro photographer who quietly snapped away while we tried not to look awkward. At one point, the African green monkey snatched my sunglasses and everyone burst out laughing — including Ana, who said that happens more than you’d think.

It’s not a zoo vibe here; you’re right in the middle of things. The guides actually know the monkeys by name and tell stories about each one — like how one of the crying cappuccinos prefers pineapple over anything else. The whole thing felt way more personal than I expected. By the end, I had fruit juice on my shirt and about a hundred photos on my phone (plus some from the pro). On the drive back with private transportation, I kept thinking about that moment when the baby monkey just looked up at me — not sure why it stuck with me so much.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Monkey House Experience

• Arrive at Monkey House
• Interact with four monkey species
• Feed monkeys fruit and bottles
• Play with monkeys and take photos
• Learn about monkey habitats and behavior

Top questions

What types of monkeys can I see at Monkey House?

You’ll meet black cappuccino monkeys, crying cappuccino monkeys, African green monkeys, and squirrel monkeys.

Is hotel pickup included in this Monkey House tour?

Yes, private transportation is included for your convenience.

Can children or infants join this experience?

Yes, infants can come along (in arms or strollers), making it suitable for families.

Is Monkey House wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible for visitors with mobility needs.

Are professional photos included in the tour?

A professional photo shoot is part of your visit so you can capture special moments.

Will I get to feed or interact directly with the monkeys?

Yes, you’ll feed fruit to adult monkeys and bottle-feed baby monkeys during your visit.

How many people are usually in each group?

The groups are kept small for an intimate experience; you can also reserve privately.

Is lunch provided during this tour?

No lunch is mentioned as part of this experience.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation to and from Monkey House in the Dominican Republic, entry for an intimate small-group or fully private visit with four species of monkeys, direct feeding experiences including bottle-feeding babies, plus a personalized professional photo shoot so you don’t have to worry about missing any moments while you’re busy laughing or dodging curious little hands.