Ever had your sunglasses snatched mid-laugh, only to watch a cheeky monkey strut away like he just won a fashion award? That's a Tuesday morning at Monkey Forest in Ubud.
I learned the hard way during my first visit with my my child had a minor incident when a macaque grabbed a shiny hair clip.
Since then, I've made four return trips, studied the monkeys' habits, and even chatted with local rangers to unlock the code on visiting safely, smoothly, and with zero drama.
If you're planning a family trip to Ubud, this guide will help you avoid theft, capture stunning photos, and keep kids calm and curious—not scared or stressed.
Why the Monkeys Are So Bold
The Monkey Forest Sanctuary isn't a zoo—it's a 12.5-hectare nature reserve where over 780 long-tailed macaques live freely among ancient structures and towering banyan trees. These monkeys aren't trained. They're wild, intelligent, and very used to humans.
According to Dr. I Wayan Sueta, a local primate behavior specialist, "Macaques are drawn to movement and reflection. Shiny objects mimic water or fruit in the wild—so they investigate fast." That's why glasses, phones, and watch faces are prime targets.
But here's the good news: with a few smart moves, you can enjoy this magical place safely—even with kids.
What to Bring (and What to Leave Behind)
Start with what's in your pockets:
1. Stow your sunglasses in a zipped bag—not hanging on your shirt.
2. Keep phones in a front pocket with a button flap or tucked deep in a secure bag.
3. Remove shiny jewelry—especially rings and necklaces.
I now wear a simple cloth headband instead of a hat. Last year, a visitor screamed as a monkey dropped from a tree, grabbed her hat, and vanished into the canopy. The staff said it happens at least 3–5 times a day.
Pro tip: Rent a 'monkey-proof' sling bag at the entrance for a small fee. It's worth every rupiah. The bags have drawstrings and flaps that make snatching nearly impossible. Plus, they're bright red—monkeys tend to ignore solid, non-reflective colors.
Best Time to Visit: Beat the Heat and the Crowds
Arrive by 8:00 a.m. Here's why:
• Monkeys are most active in the early morning, foraging and socializing. You'll see natural behavior, not sleepy creatures napping on statues.
• Fewer tour groups arrive before 9:30 a.m.
• Cooler temperatures make walking pleasant—especially with kids.
The park opens at 8:30 a.m. and closes at 6:00 p.m. Last entry is at 5:30 p.m.
Ticket prices (as of 2024):
• Stander price: $5.50 USD
• Children (3–12): $2.75 USD
• Under 3: Free
Kids under 12 must be accompanied by their families. Strollers aren't allowed—there are stairs and narrow jungle paths. Bring a baby carrier if needed.
Photography Tips: Capture the Moment Without the Chaos
You can get incredible photos—without getting too close.
1. Use a zoom lens (70–200mm). I shoot with a lightweight mirrorless camera and rarely go below 100mm. It lets me capture curious faces and playful leaps from a safe distance.
2. Wear neutral or earth-toned clothes. Bright pinks, reds, and metallics attract attention. I wear beige, soft green, or navy—colors that blend with the forest. Last trip, a woman in a sequined top had three monkeys follow her for ten minutes.
3. Shoot from low angles. Sit on a bench or crouch near the pathways. Monkeys often walk right past, giving you eye-level shots that feel intimate but safe.
4. Avoid direct eye contact. In monkey language, staring is a challenge. Glance sideways or look down when they approach.
There are three main temple zones perfect for photos:
• Main Temple (Ceking Temple): Intricate carvings with monkeys lounging on stone guardians.
• Holy Spring Temple: Misty, moss-covered steps—great for atmospheric shots.
• Giant Banyan Tree: A majestic, 800-year-old tree with roots like dragon claws.
Family-Friendly Tips: Keep Kids Calm and Engaged
Monkeys can be loud and sudden in their movements—scary for little ones. Here's how we make it fun:
1. Talk about monkey rules before you enter. We practiced a "monkey freeze" game: if a monkey comes near, stand still, hands at your sides, and wait for a guard to help.
2. Bring a small snack—for after the park. No food is allowed inside. But a treat at the end turns the visit into a reward.
3. Point out funny behaviors. One morning, we watched two monkeys gently groom each other while a third tried to sneak their banana. It felt like a nature documentary come to life.
The staff are trained and carry bamboo sticks to keep monkeys at bay. If one gets too close, a ranger will step in immediately.
What to Do If a Monkey Takes Your Stuff
It happens. Don't panic.
1. Stay calm and still. Running or yelling excites them.
2. Flag down a staff member. They know the troop hierarchy and can often negotiate with food or gentle shooing.
3. Never pull back. If a monkey has your phone, tugging can lead to bites. Wait for help.
Most items are returned within minutes. One tourist got his sunglasses back—after the monkey wore them for a full 20 seconds and dropped them in a bush.
Extend Your Day: Campuhan Ridge Walk
After the forest, walk 15 minutes to Campuhan Ridge Walk—a free, flat trail perfect for families. It's a scenic ridge path with panoramic views of rice fields and rolling hills. Strollers work well here.
Go in the late afternoon. The golden light is dreamy, and the breeze keeps kids cool. Grab fresh coconut water from a roadside stand on the way back.
Next time you're in Ubud, let the monkeys surprise you—but keep your valuables smart and your lens ready. With a little prep, this place isn't just safe—it's unforgettable.
