Healing animals, Peaceful sanctuary thrives, Fun for all awaits.
Akumal Monkey Sanctuary is a sanctuary for spider monkeys located in Akumal – easily accessible from Lol Ka’naab. The sanctuary was founded in 2002 by a group of local residents who were concerned about the welfare of the spider monkeys that lived in the area. The sanctuary provides a safe and natural habitat for the monkeys, where they can live and roam freely. The sanctuary also educates visitors about the importance of protecting these animals and their habitat. Visitors to the sanctuary can observe the monkeys in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and social dynamics. The sanctuary also offers educational programs for school groups and other groups interested in learning about conservation and the protection of wildlife.
In addition to monkeys, the sanctuary also features other types of rescued animals as well. There are 200 different specimens from 55 species that live there. Guests will be able to interact with the animals including touching and holding.
The signature 2 hour sanctuary tour offers the following hi-lights:
- Expert guides will teach you all about animals.
- Meet, touch & learn from more than 50 rescued species️.
- Participate in our bonding program with macaws, snakes, primates.
- With your purchase you are supporting our efforts to keep rescued animals in a safe home.
- Suitable for all ages.
You can also add an ATV or a Cenote experience to the sanctuary tour for an additional fee.
About Spider Monkeys
Spider monkeys are a type of New World monkey, native to the tropical forests of Central and South America. They are named for their long, thin arms and legs, which give them a spider-like appearance when they move through the trees. Spider monkeys are known for their agile and acrobatic movements and are able to easily swing from branch to branch using their prehensile tail as a fifth limb. They have a distinctive appearance, with a long, thin face, large ears, and a black or dark brown coat.
Spider monkeys are social animals and live in large groups called troops. Troops can range in size from a few individuals to over 100 members, and are led by a dominant male. Spider monkeys are omnivorous and feed on a variety of foods, including fruit, nuts, insects, and small animals. They are important seed dispersers in their habitat, as they move through the forest and eat fruit, which they then defecate in new areas, helping to spread the seeds and promote the growth of new plants.
Spider monkeys are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), due to habitat loss and deforestation. They are also threatened by hunting and the pet trade. In some areas, they are protected by law and conservation efforts are underway to protect their habitat and populations.