Monkey Forest

Picture a place where you don’t just watch animals through bars, but literally find yourself among them. “Yaar Kofim” (Monkey Forest) in northern Israel is exactly that kind of place. Here, small monkeys leap straight onto visitors’ shoulders, peacocks strut majestically along the pathways, and the atmosphere feels more like a jungle adventure than a typical zoo visit.

Location and Getting There

The park is located in the village of Yodfat (יודפת), near the town of Karmiel in northern Israel. Getting there is straightforward – most visitors use Waze navigation without any issues. The park sits in a peaceful rural setting, offering a refreshing escape from city bustle.

Operating Hours and Ticket Prices

Opening Hours:

• Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Monday-Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Saturday/Holidays: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Note: Tickets are available up to one hour before closure. Hours may vary, so check the official website before visiting.

Admission Fees: Based on recent visitor reports, current pricing appears to be around 45-65 shekels for adults and children over 2-3 years. The park has experienced price increases over the years, with some visitors mentioning costs around 56-65 shekels per person.

Money-saving strategies:

• Look for online discount coupons at cpnclub.co.il (weekday tickets for 39 NIS instead of 49 NIS)
• Check zebratix.com for discounted tickets (38 NIS weekdays, 45 NIS Saturday)
• Teacher’s association members may qualify for special rates
• Weekend advance booking is mandatory through the official website

The Star Attraction: Free-Roaming Monkeys

The main draw is the large enclosure styled as a natural forest where small monkeys roam freely. Unlike traditional zoos, here the roles are somewhat reversed – in some areas, visitors walk through enclosed pathways while monkeys move freely outside and above.

Feeding the Monkeys

This is where the real magic happens. Small monkeys will literally jump onto your hands, shoulders, and even head when they see you have food.

What you need to know:

• Monkey food costs 5 shekels per small container (about 5 worms)
• You can only feed them approved food sold on-site – no outside food allowed
• Monkeys prefer worms over grain mix
• Budget for at least 3-4 containers per person for a satisfying experience

Feeding strategy: Buy food right at the beginning of your visit when monkeys are hungriest and most active. Don’t worry if several monkeys jump on you at once – it’s part of the experience! Hold the container firmly though, as they’re quick to snatch and run.

Safety note: Don’t attempt to pet the monkeys without food – they might bite. With food in hand, they’re generally gentle with soft little paws.

Beyond the Monkeys: What Else to See

While monkeys are the stars, the park offers much more:

Free-roaming animals throughout the park:

• Peacocks (absolutely stunning and very photogenic)
• Chickens and roosters
• Ducks around small ponds
• Geese

In enclosures:

• Various parrot species (one reportedly speaks!)
• Lemurs
• Alpacas/llamas
• Deer (including “Bambi deer”)
• Goats and sheep (petting area for children)
• Ponies
• Large tortoises
• Guinea pigs
• Wild boars
• Ostriches

Park Layout and Walking Experience

The park follows a loop design that takes about 1-1.5 hours to complete at a leisurely pace. The pathways are unpaved earth trails winding through lush greenery, creating an authentic forest feel. There’s abundant shade from trees, making it comfortable even during warmer months.

Accessibility note: The unpaved paths can become muddy after rain, so wear appropriate shoes. Some visitors suggest the paths could benefit from gravel covering.

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Dining and Refreshments

Inside the park:

• Small café by the duck pond serving coffee, tea, ice cream, and light snacks
• Multiple picnic tables and benches throughout
• Prices are moderate, typical for Israeli attractions

At the entrance:

• Full restaurant with varied menu
• Cheese shop
• Souvenir stores

Important restriction: Outside food is prohibited (except water). Security checks bags at entrance for snacks, chips, and other food items to protect the animals.

Best Times to Visit

Optimal timing:

• Early morning right at opening (9 AM) when monkeys are hungriest
• Weekdays for smaller crowds
• Avoid Saturdays if possible due to heavy crowds

Seasonal considerations:

• Spring (April) offers perfect weather with lots of shade
• Summer visits are comfortable due to tree coverage
• The park is enjoyable year-round

Ticket Booking Strategy

Online vs. on-site:

• Online booking is recommended but doesn’t always guarantee skip-the-line access
• Tickets are sold for specific time slots – arrive punctually as early entry isn’t allowed
• Some visitors report still having to queue at the ticket office even with online tickets

Realistic Expectations: The Good and Not-So-Good

What visitors love:

• Incredible close encounters with friendly monkeys
• Beautiful, well-maintained natural setting
• Great for families with children 2+
• Unique experience unlike typical zoos
• Plenty of shaded seating areas

Common complaints:

• Can get very crowded, especially weekends
• Limited parking
• Additional costs add up (entrance + monkey food)
• Some empty cages and fewer animals than expected on certain days
• Long queues despite online booking
• Muddy paths after rain

Map:

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