The popular Somerset West primate park welcomed its final visitors before closing after 23 years and transitioning into a waterpark and picnic venue.
It had taken us months to finally make the drive out to Monkey Town in Somerset West. A fellow parent first mentioned the primate park to us back in March during a trip to the Winelands Light Railway in Stellenbosch, but life seemed to get in the way. Between bouts of illness and the usual “let’s go next weekend” mindset, we kept pushing it back until a “Closing Special” post on Facebook made it clear that if we didn’t go now, we never would.
We finally visited during Monkey Town’s final farewell weekend on 4 and 5 May 2024. It was a strange feeling arriving at a place for the first time just as it was preparing to close. The weather was perfect for a family outing, but there was an unmistakable sense that this much-loved Somerset West attraction was reaching the end of an era.
A Final Bustling Atmosphere
The entrance shop, which I imagine was once filled with souvenirs and snacks, stood almost empty on our visit. It was a stark reminder that the attraction’s 23-year run was drawing to a close. Once we stepped further inside, though, the quiet gave way to a park filled with families making the most of one last visit before the gates closed.
My son was thrilled from the moment we arrived. He was handed a “special magical” green sticker at the entrance, which he was told granted him access to see the animals. It was a small, thoughtful touch that kept the magic alive for the younger visitors, even as many adults seemed to appreciate that this was the end of something special.
Seeing the Primates One Last Time
Walking through the enclosures, it was easy to understand why Monkey Town had become such a favourite with local families over the past two decades. The layout allowed visitors to enjoy close-up views of the primates, while the large crowds gave the day more of a farewell celebration than a final goodbye.
According to the staff we spoke with, the closure is permanent. We had hoped the park might relocate elsewhere in the Western Cape, but they confirmed there were no plans to reopen at another location. After 23 years, the primate park has officially come to an end.
What Happens to Monkey Town Somerset West Now?
Although the primate park has closed, the site itself isn’t disappearing. According to information shared by the venue, the waterpark and picnic facilities will continue operating, even though animal viewing has now ended.
It felt bittersweet to leave. We were grateful that we finally made the trip, especially seeing how much our son enjoyed his magical green sticker and meeting the monkeys. But like many families across the Helderberg, we’ll remember it as more than just a place to spend an afternoon. It was our first visit—and, sadly, our last.
