Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary is one of Ghana’s hidden gems, where nature and tradition come together in a fascinating way.

If you love animals, adventure, and culture, this must-visit spot deserves a place on your list of must-see destinations in Ghana. Here are seven amazing facts about Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary that will make you want to plan your trip today.

1. The Monkeys Are Considered Sacred Messengers

For over 200 years, the people of Tafi Atome have believed that the monkeys living in their forest are sacred. According to local tradition, these monkeys are messengers to the gods, which means they have been protected and respected for generations.

Unlike other places where monkeys might be hunted or driven away, the villagers see them as part of their spiritual heritage. This deep respect has helped the monkey population grow and stay safe in their natural habitat.

2. The Sanctuary Was Officially Established in 1996

Even though the villagers had been protecting the monkeys for centuries, it wasn’t until 1996 that they created the official Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary. This was done to protect not just the monkeys but also the forest they live in.

Thanks to these conservation efforts, the monkey population has grown to about 200. The sanctuary also preserves many species of birds, butterflies, and plants, making it a fantastic place for nature lovers.

3. Tourism Has Helped Improve the Village

When you visit Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary, you’re not just seeing monkeys—you’re also supporting the local community. Tourism revenue has helped bring electricity to the village, improve the school, and build a community clinic.

So, every entrance fee, tour, or souvenir purchase helps make life better for the people who have worked hard to protect this special place.

4. You Can Get Really Close to the Monkeys

The monkeys at the sanctuary are wild, but they are also very friendly. Unlike some wildlife parks where animals stay far away, these monkeys often come down from the trees to interact with visitors.

If you bring bananas, you might even get to feed them! Just be ready for a playful experience—these curious creatures aren’t shy about grabbing food from your hands.

5. There’s More to Do Than Just See Monkeys

While the monkeys are the main attraction, the sanctuary offers plenty of other activities to make your visit even more fun. Here are some things you can do:

Activity	Description	Duration	Difficulty
Guided Monkey Tour	Walk through the forest and see the monkeys up close.	1-1.5 hours	Easy
Village Tour	Explore Tafi Atome, watch food preparation, and learn about daily life.	1 hour	Easy
Pineapple Farm Visit	Meet a farmer and taste fresh pineapples (if in season).	45 minutes	Easy
Kente Weaving	Visit Tafi Abuipe to see traditional kente weaving.	2 hours	Easy (by car), Moderate (walking/biking)
Evening Entertainment	Enjoy drumming, dancing, or storytelling around a bonfire.	1 hour	Easy

These activities give visitors a deeper look into the culture and traditions of the area, making the trip even more meaningful.

6. The Best Time to Visit Depends on the Season

You can visit the sanctuary any time of the year, but the monkeys are easiest to spot during certain hours. From November to January, they leave the village forest to look for food between 6:00-8:00 AM and 3:30-6:00 PM. Outside of those months, they are usually around all day.

So, if you’re visiting during those months, plan your trip around those time slots to see the most monkeys.

7. You Can Stay Overnight in the Sanctuary

If you want to fully experience the peaceful atmosphere of Tafi Atome, you can stay overnight. The sanctuary has a rustic six-room guesthouse near the visitor center with basic amenities like flush toilets and showers (but bring your own towel).

For a more immersive experience, you can also arrange a homestay with a local family. Meals are prepared by a community cook and served in an open-air shelter, giving you a taste of local cuisine.

How to Get There

Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary is about 43 km south of Hohoe. Here’s how you can get there:

• By car: From the main Ho-Hohoe road at Logba Alekpeti, take the dirt road for 5 km to the visitor center.
• By public transport: Take a trotro from Accra, Ho, or Hohoe to Logba Alekpeti, then hire a local taxi or walk 5 km to the sanctuary.

Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary is more than just a place to see monkeys—it’s a unique blend of wildlife conservation, culture, and community development. Whether you’re feeding playful monkeys, learning about local traditions, or exploring the lush forest, every moment here is an adventure.

So, if you ever find yourself in Ghana, make sure to add this magical sanctuary to your itinerary. You won’t regret it!