The centre was established in 1987 by Jim and Alison Cronin to provide a permanent home for chimpanzees abused in Spanish beach photography trades.
It is the only centre in the world that houses both rescued chimpanzees and orangutans in large, multi-individual social groups.
The facility works closely with international wildlife authorities to enforce the CITES agreement against the illegal trade of primates.
Several of the chimpanzees at the sanctuary were born into the entertainment industry and spent years in solitary confinement before rescue.
The sanctuary features an on-site, specialized primate veterinary hospital equipped for complex surgical procedures.
Monkey World operates a specialized programme for the rehabilitation of capuchin monkeys rescued from laboratory research environments.
The resident orangutan population includes individuals rescued from the illegal pet trade in Asia, where they were often orphaned by poachers.
The park's infrastructure includes massive indoor climate-controlled environments to suit the tropical origins of the various primate species.
The sanctuary does not engage in captive breeding for display; all reproduction is strictly controlled to maintain animal welfare standards.
Many of the enclosures are designed to mimic the natural canopy environment, allowing primates to exercise normal foraging and climbing behaviors.
Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre is a 65-acre primate sanctuary located in Dorset, England, dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of primates from across the globe. It houses over 250 primates, including chimpanzees, orangutans, and various species of monkeys, many of which were rescued from illegal pet trades, circuses, and laboratory environments. The facility functions as an international rescue center, working with foreign governments to confiscate primates smuggled into the exotic pet trade. Unlike traditional zoos, the sanctuary focuses on life-long care and social integration for animals that cannot be returned to the wild. Visitors can observe the primates within their large, naturalistic social groups across extensive enclosures. The site features the Great Ape Centre, home to several chimpanzee communities and orangutans. Educational talks are held throughout the day to provide insight into the individual histories and rescue stories of the inhabitants. It operates as a non-profit organization, relying on visitor admissions to fund its veterinary care and rescue operations.
The elevated viewing platforms overlooking the chimpanzee outdoor enclosures provide clear sightlines for photography.
Plan your visit to coincide with the scheduled keeper talks to hear the specific rescue histories of different primate groups.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, as the sanctuary is spread across a large, hilly rural site.
Use the viewing areas early in the day when the primates are often most active during their feeding sessions.
Attempting to see every enclosure in a single hour; the site is extensive and requires significant walking time.
Open daily throughout the year except for Christmas Day.
Strictly no feeding of the animals; keep voices low near enclosures to avoid stressing the rescues; do not tap on glass or fences.
