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Landskron Monkey Mountain
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Animal habitat
Affenberg Landskron in Carinthia is the largest monkey sanctuary in Austria, housing a colony of approximately 180 Japanese macaques. The four-hectare facility at the foot of Landskron Castle was opened in 1996. Unlike traditional zoos, the animals live in a spacious, natural forested area without cages or bars, allowing visitors to observe the monkeys' social behavior in a realistic environment. The site is not only a tourist attraction but also an important scientific research facility, collaborating closely with universities. During guided tours, visitors learn details about the biology, hierarchy, and communication patterns of these intelligent primates. A distinctive feature of Japanese macaques is their ability to survive in cold climates and even swim and dive in water. Affenberg places great importance on allowing the animals to maintain their natural instincts, which is why direct contact or feeding by visitors is strictly prohibited.
- Location: Carinthia, Austria
- Top sights: Jungfernsprung · Bilderrahmen · Affenberg Landskron
- Nearby: Villach (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -3 | 2 | 6 | 11 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 12 | 8 | 3 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 58 | 66 | 74 | 83 | 110 | 120 | 125 | 140 | 130 | 118 | 119 | 85 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Landskron Monkey Mountain is open year-round, but the best time to visit is spring and summer (March to September) when the macaques spend plenty of time outdoors. In autumn you can watch the juveniles playing.
Best time of day
In the morning, the monkeys are especially active and often gather for feeding. In the afternoon they rest more, so a guided tour in the morning is the better choice.
Etiquette
Do not feed the monkeys with food you brought - it is strictly forbidden and endangers the animals. Keep your distance and follow the guide's instructions.
What to bring
Note that the monkeys can be curious - secure your bags and leave loose items in the car. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Getting there
Monkey Mountain is located above Villach in Carinthia and is accessible by car via the A2 motorway. Parking is available right at the entrance; the final meters are on foot.
What to expect
The monkeys are used to humans, but they decide how close they come. Take your time and sit quietly - soon the curious macaques will approach you.
Geography
Facts
- The Affenberg sanctuary was officially established in 1996.
- Approximately 180 Japanese macaques reside on the property.
- The forested enclosure spans a total of 4 hectares.
- Scientific cooperation is maintained with the University of Vienna.
- Japanese macaques can live up to 30 years in protected environments.
- The monkeys are highly adapted to cold and remain outdoors during winter.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Landskron Monkey Mountain (10)
Adlerarena Burg Landskron
Bird of prey show with eagles and falcons at Landskron Castle.
Burg Landskron
Ruined castle northeast of Villach in Carinthia, Austria.
Strandbad
Lido on Lake Ossiacher See with sunbathing lawns and swimming area.
Campingbad Ossiacher See
Camping beach on Lake Ossiacher See with lake access.
Der faule Willi
Metal sculpture of a bee by Rony Hanser from Annenheim, 2019.
Filialkirche Hll. Philipp und Jakob
Church building in Villach, Austria, dedicated to the apostles Philip and James.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a guided tour to see Affenberg?
Yes, the visit is only possible as part of an approximately 45-minute guided tour.
Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not allowed on the grounds for safety reasons.
Are the monkeys caged?
No, the Japanese macaques live in a 4-hectare open-air enclosure.
How often do guided tours take place?
During high season, tours usually take place every 20 to 30 minutes.
Are you allowed to touch the monkeys?
No, touching the animals is forbidden to avoid stressing them.
Landskron Monkey Mountain: where is it located?
Landskron Monkey Mountain is located in Carinthia, Austria.
Landskron Monkey Mountain: what is there to see?
Highlights include Jungfernsprung, Bilderrahmen, Affenberg Landskron.
Landskron Monkey Mountain: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Landskron Monkey Mountain: why is it worth visiting?
Affenberg Landskron in Carinthia is the largest monkey sanctuary in Austria, housing a colony of approximately 180 Japanese macaques.
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