A hard place to find or even get a hold of on the telephone, but a great way to spend an afternoon... read more
A hard place to find or even get a hold of on the telephone, but a great way to spend an afternoon... read more
I've heard of this place by accident. It is actually closer to David than Boquete and it is... read more
Sharing a few hours at this sanctuary gave us an opportunity to learn more about the challenges, successes and vision held by this dedicated group. The drive up the road was an adventure in itself - 4x4 only! The hike through the property would not be considered 'easy' as the damp floor and some elevations made trekking a bit tricky - our new intern guide Millie was a real delight to talk with sharing a wealth of information/experience. All of the staff were very most welcoming and we especially enjoyed the little anecdotes that they shared regarding the individual monkeys. Although we didn't see the troupes on the property we did hear the howlers before nap time. We look forward to updates on FB page in the future. Wishing them much luck with the sanctuary and future projects on plan!
This was an amazing trip for us. We had to leave our car at the bottom of the mountain, and we caught a ride up with some of the interns who had a 4x4 (100% necessary). It's also a possible 30-45 minute hike if you're up for it. We were greeted by two monkey friends who wanted to play with us immediately.
We only took a tour of the facilities (not an actual hike), and also got to interact with some howler monkeys who were not in their inclosures.
There were many monkeys in inclosures who we were not able to interact with, but our guide (Tiffany is great!) explained the reasons for each animal being there, how they were being treated to facilitated re-integration into the wild, and how we could interact with them.
Being able to actually play with the monkeys is NOT guaranteed, and it's easier to get the opportunity if you time your visit with their schedule. We were there at about 11:30 am, before the went to nap.
Also could hear howlers monkeys in the distance. We then walked back down the hill to our car (about a 25 minute walk).
This was a good experience not only because we got to play with the monkeys, but because the guide was very knowledgeable, explained the research projects they have going on, and was able to answer all of our questions.
Definitely take some time to see this if you're in the area! It was NICE to see animals treated with respect. This is NOT a zoo in any way, but a place for them learn the skills they need to join a troop and go back into the wild.
I've heard of this place by accident. It is actually closer to David than Boquete and it is difficult to reach. Therefore you call the owners a few day in advance. Then you can take a bus and at a meeting point they pick you up. I just visited for few hours to take photos. The howler monkeys are amazing. I loved spending time with them. They come close and even jump on your back sometimes...
I have to start the review by stating alouatta is between david and boquete, so its not very close to either. The hill is also rather steep if you are walking up from the main road (3km up hill) need 4x4, most cabs can't go up.that being said and the fact that I despise hills, it was so worth it! There is noting like having baby monkeys hang on you.
The animals there all depend on what needed rescuing, so when I went there were monkeys and a honey bear. I would never have been able to get this close to these animals in the wild.plus they are a great organization.their goal is to be able to release these animals in the end.
I would have liked to have gone in the early evening/morning to bottle feed the monkeys and to have seen the more nocturnal animals, but I am just so happy to have been able to go. Its hard to get someone on the phone; but use the email or facebook , its so worth it.
On our Panama trip, this visit made the most impression. We will never forget this. So if you still doubt to go after reading all the great stories on tripadvisor; please go! You will have a fantastic experience, and your money is well spent; you support this great project. It is sad that projects as this ar needed in this world, but great that there are people who do this.
It is very interesting to see those young and kind students doing there job. They share their knowledge with you. You can ask anything.
Very nice to have shared the meals with them. Nice talks, good laughs. They really to their utmost to cook great meals. We learned something good of them; dont throw food away. Now we are at home, we recycle our leftovers as well. So we learned something..
The interactions with the monkeys; we will never forget. They really see you as their surogate mum. Cute!
The only thing what we found a little bit disappointing after reading all those great story's, was that the owner Judy, was not very hospitaly.
Thank you to Jolie and Seth and their amazing staff and the volunteer interns for sharing their day with us last week while we were in Panama. Never before have we been able to experience being with animals in their natural environment in this kind of amazing setting. The Alouatta property is extensive and naturally beautiful and before we even drove through the dates Seth had us out the car to quietly watch a troop of howlers in the trees beside the road. There were about 14 of them (adults and babies) and it was a real privilege to be so up close with these gentle magnificent primates. Once we actually arrived at the sanctuary we were overwhelmed with the cuteness of Mojo, Coco and Nina Simone, the 3 baby howlers currenty being rehabiliated by Alouatta. Seth and Jolie and their crew made us feel like we were just a part of their organization. They served a delicious lunch and just let us hang out all day. My husband even went back very early the next morning to accompany one of their students on a frog identifying and spotting mission. Alouatta is a special place. This is not a zoo, nor is it formal in anyway. If you are looking for a precision timed, air-conditioned, gift shop kind of place and don't want to experience animals in a close-up way this is not the place for you. If you respect animals and are a proponent for conservation and sustainability this is the perfect place for you. You will learn so much and leave with a huge smile on your face and amazing memories. Thank you Alouatta - we wish you well in all your endeavours.