Boabeng - Fiema Monkey Sanctuary

This unique community-managed sanctuary is famous for its sacred population of Mona and Black and White Colobus monkeys, which live freely among the...

Boabeng - Fiema Monkey Sanctuary at a Glance

Location
Northern Savanna & Cross-Border Wildlife, Ghana, West Africa
Coordinates
7.772028, -1.732687
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Moderate
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
November to March (dry season) for wildlife and national parks. Best birding November to April.

Getting to Boabeng - Fiema Monkey Sanctuary

Nearest airport: Aéroport de Gaoua (XGA), 330 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aéroport de Bobo-Dioulasso (BOY), 472 km away.

Wildlife in Boabeng - Fiema Monkey Sanctuary

Home to 13 recorded species including 5 birds of prey, 3 tropical birds, 2 waterbirds, 2 iconic birds, 1 reptiles.

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Boabeng - Fiema Monkey Sanctuary

27 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

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Visitor Tips - Boabeng - Fiema Monkey Sanctuary

What truly sets Boabeng-Fiema apart is the profound, centuries-old bond between the local communities and the sacred Mona and Black and White Colobus monkeys. It is a deeply spiritual experience to witness these wild primates moving freely among the villages, protected and revered by the people. We find it a powerful testament to harmonious coexistence, a rare and beautiful thing in our modern world.

Gate Times

The sanctuary typically opens from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. We recommend arriving early, ideally by 8:00 AM, to experience the monkeys at their most active before the midday heat sets in. A local guide is mandatory for all visitors and is included in the entrance fee, which is paid directly upon arrival at the visitor center. No advance booking is usually required.

Tipping

While not strictly mandatory, we always encourage tipping your local guide for their invaluable knowledge and their role in facilitating such a unique interaction. For a good experience, we suggest a gratuity of GHS 50-100 per person. We find it most appropriate to hand the tip directly to your guide at the end of your tour, expressing your appreciation for their service.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ghana

Travel advisory for Ghana

Boabeng - Fiema Monkey Sanctuary FAQs

What makes the Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary different from other wildlife experiences, and how close can I get to the monkeys?

This sanctuary is unique because the Mona and Black and White Colobus monkeys are considered sacred and live freely within the village, interacting closely with residents and visitors. You can often observe them at very close quarters, sometimes even having them approach you, offering an intimate and respectful wildlife encounter unlike traditional safaris.

When is the best time to visit Boabeng-Fiema to see the monkeys, and what should I expect during my visit?

The best time to visit is generally during Ghana's dry season (November to March) when the monkeys are more active and easier to spot as they forage for food. A typical visit involves a guided walk through the village and surrounding forest, where you'll encounter the monkeys freely roaming and learn about their sacred status from local guides.

What are the typical entry fees and other costs associated with visiting the Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary, and how do these contribute to the community?

Entry fees are typically modest and directly contribute to the sanctuary's conservation efforts and the welfare of the local community, which manages the site. It's also customary to hire a local guide, whose fees further support the villagers and enhance your understanding of the monkeys and their cultural significance.

Given the close interaction, what safety precautions should I take when visiting the Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary, especially regarding the monkeys?

While the monkeys are accustomed to humans, it's crucial to follow your guide's instructions, avoid direct feeding, and maintain a respectful distance to prevent startling them. Keep your belongings secure, as the monkeys are curious, and remember that this is their natural habitat, so observe them without interfering with their behavior.

How accessible is the Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary for travelers, and what are the best ways to reach it from major cities in Ghana?

The sanctuary is accessible by road, though it requires a journey from major cities like Accra or Kumasi. Most visitors travel by private car, shared taxi (tro-tro), or bus to Techiman, and then take a local taxi or shared vehicle for the final leg to Boabeng-Fiema, making it an adventurous but rewarding trip.

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