For the past 200 years, the Mona monkeys inhabiting the tropical forest surrounding the small village of Tafi-Atome have been protected because it was believed they were messengers to the gods. In 1996, the village began broader efforts to protect their forest and monkeys, as well as to offer tours for visitors.
As a result of these efforts, the monkey population has increased to about 200 and the forest, with its many species of birds and butterflies, has been preserved. The playful monkeys are wild but often come down very close to visitors.
Revenue from tourism has brought electricity to the village, as well as improvements to the school and a community clinic.
Monkeys are generally out any time of day except during November through January, when they leave the village forest to forage for food from roughly 6:00-8:00 am and 3:30-6:00 pm.
The sanctuary offers a rustic 6-room guesthouse adjacent to the visitor Centre flush toilets, showers and sheet provided, but no towels. Home-stays are also available. A community cook serves meals at a pleasant circular open-air shelter. Liquid refreshments are also available in the village.
6 am to 6 pm daily
43 km south of Hohoe. From the main Ho-Hohoe road at Logba Alekpeti, turn at the Monkey Sanctuary sign onto the dirt road for 5 km to the visitor centre. Trotros available from Accra, Ho or Hohoe to Logba Alekpeti. Take a local taxi or walk the 5 k from the main road to the visitor centre