Monkeyland, a beloved Plettenberg Bay sanctuary, has once again been recognized on the world stage. Their innovative "Buy a Square Metre of Forest for the Monkeys" campaign recently won top honors in the Land and Marine Biodiversity category at the Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards in Turkey.


This award highlights Monkeyland's commitment to both wildlife preservation and sustainable practices. Co-founder Lara Mostert expressed her pride, emphasizing that this recognition underscores the dedication of everyone involved in protecting these primates and their habitat.


The campaign was born from a crucial need: securing the long-term future of the sanctuary's land. Founder Tony Blignaut explained that while the land belongs to a private company, the welfare of the animals rests with the South African Animal Sanctuaries Alliance (SAASA), a non-profit organization. To ensure the animals always have a home, SAASA launched the "Buy a Square Metre" campaign, allowing the public to contribute to the purchase of the land.


Monkeyland, established in 1998, provides a safe haven for primates, primarily rescued from the pet trade. While not native to South Africa, these animals cannot be released into the wild. However, with the increasing threat of habitat destruction worldwide, Monkeyland plays a vital role in preserving these species for potential future reintroduction programs.


This latest award is a testament to Monkeyland's dedication to responsible tourism and animal welfare. Co-founder Lara Mostert expressed her immense pride and hopes this recognition will inspire others to support their cause and ensure a safe future for these incredible creatures.