Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary

Experience a heartwarming encounter with nature at the Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary, a tropical forest grove in the Volta Region where sacred monkeys and humans have coexisted in harmony for over 200 years. The Experience Close Encounters: Unlike a zoo, the Monas and Patas monkeys roam free. They are wild but incredibly friendly; with a piece of banana in your hand, they will gently climb onto your shoulder for a snack. Forest Walk: Take a guided 30-60 minute walk through the lush secondary forest. Your guide will use a specific whistle to call the troops down from the canopy. Village Integration: The sanctuary is unique because the monkeys often wander into the village itself, playing on rooftops and interacting with the locals who treat them like family. History & Sacred Traditions The Protectors: The people of Tafi Atome believe the monkeys are messengers from the gods. For centuries, harming a monkey was strictly forbidden by traditional law. Conservation Success: In the 1980s, the arrival of Christian missionaries led to a decline in traditional beliefs, and some monkeys were hunted. In 1993, the community rallied to create the official sanctuary to protect their "sacred kin" and their habitat. Eco-Tourism Hub: Today, the sanctuary is a model for community-based eco-tourism, with proceeds funding local clinics, schools, and electricity for the village. Key Facts Species: Primarily home to the True Mona Monkey (Cercopithecus mona). Location: Located near Hohoe, approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours from Accra. Best Time to Visit: Early morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM) when the monkeys are most active and looking for food. What to Bring: A bunch of bananas (which can also be bought at the entrance) and a camera!