Sangeh Monkey Forest, Sangeh

I always come here whenever I'm in Bali for the past 35 years. It's a nice little park full of -you guessed it- monkeys. The monkeys are territorial, there are 3 different groups and no trespassing is allowed between them (or else the trespassing monkey will be attacked). There's a reasonable entrance fee. Also I would suggest you use one of the on-site tour guides. They really help in 'crowd control' (monkeys-wise) and to get really good photos with the monkeys. There's no set price for these guides and your 'donation' is voluntary but i think it's good form to give them a good tip. Remember not to panic, no sudden moves, listen to your guide, don't bring food, leave your sunglasses. In fact, leave everything except your wallet and cellphone. Towards the end of your tour, there's a few shops selling souvenirs and food. You can bargain for the price of the souvenirs but again, maybe don't bargain too hard, these shop owners aren't swimming in money and the COVID pandemic has been hard on them, so maybe we can be a little bit more generous than usual.

Quiet place with not many tourists, so you can walk and clearly see everything like you’re special guest here. The staff is following you all the way to protect from monkeys. They are not aggressive here, but it’s better not to touch them, also you can take some snacks here to feed them.

Make contact with the sacred at this forest grove with temples and shrines surrounded by a rare and very old patch of native forest (c 300 years say the guides at the park). At another part of Sangeh Monkey forest there was a large banyan tree which reminded me of the tree of souls in Avatar. Entrance fee is 30000 rupiah per person. There are park stewards around and they help manage bad monkey behavior. However, beware the "false guides" who are probably trying to see something.

Fascinating place that's absolutly worth a visit. However, take care of your belongings and be prepared that they will sell you souvenirs. You should not be afraid of monkeys because you will get in touch with them, whether you like it or not. ;-) Always be respectful to the monkeys as they are a central part of Bali's culture and never approach them (let them approach you) and don't touch them.

Lovely experience! I was recommended this particular park as it's quieter and the monkeys are more 'polite'. It was wonderful, not just the monkeys but also the wonderful structures and statues and of course the amazing rainforest. Absolutely recommend!