Plizio Visual Lab

Drabo Monkey Sanctuary

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

The Drabo Monkey Sanctuary, located in the municipality of Abomey-Calavi near Cotonou, is a critical refuge for endangered primate species in southern Benin. The site consists of a fragmented coastal forest that serves as one of the last remaining habitats for the endemic red-bellied monkey (Cercopithecus erythrogaster erythrogaster). In addition to these rare primates, the sanctuary is home to mona monkeys and a wide variety of bird species, making it a biodiversity hotspot in an increasingly urbanized region. The project was established through collaboration between local communities and conservation organizations to protect the habitat from deforestation and poaching. Visitors can observe the monkeys in their natural environment as they move through the dense forest canopy. On-site educational programs work to sensitize the local population to the value of the forest and the necessity of species conservation. Maintaining the Drabo sanctuary is crucial for preventing the extinction of specialized species along the West African coastal zone.

Location: Benin
Top sights: Moulinier · Complexe touristique agoualand(CTA) · JADET
Nearby: Azizakouè (39 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	28	28	28	27	26	25	25	25	26	27	27
Rain mm	21	33	78	119	174	216	165	93	198	172	55	20

📋 Practical info

📅

Best season

The dry season from November to March is the best time to visit the Drabo Monkey Sanctuary, as trails are dry and monkeys are easier to see. In the rainy season the terrain can be very muddy.

🌅

Best time of day

Monkeys are most active in the early morning and late afternoon when they forage. Plan your visit for these times to see the most animals.

📜

Etiquette

Stay on marked trails and do not litter in the forest, as monkeys may eat it. Do not feed the animals, as this disrupts their natural behavior.

🎒

What to bring

Sturdy footwear and long trousers protect against insect bites and thorny vegetation. Binoculars are useful for observing monkeys in the canopy.

🧭

Getting there

The Drabo Monkey Sanctuary is in southern Benin, near the town of Lokossa. It is best reached with a local guide who knows the path through the community forest.

🦌

What to expect

Monkeys can be shy, especially if not used to many visitors. Sit quietly and wait for them to come down from the trees to observe you.

Geography

Coordinates

6.53000, 2.32000

Facts

Home to the endemic red-bellied monkey (Cercopithecus erythrogaster)
The sanctuary is located in the Abomey-Calavi municipality of southern Benin
It comprises one of the last primary forest fragments in the coastal zone
Over 100 different bird species have been documented within the area
Local communities are directly involved in the patrolling of the forest
The red-bellied monkey is listed as 'Endangered' on the IUCN Red List

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Abomey-Calavi Botanical Garden9 km · WExplore →

Sô River9 km · NExplore →

Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ)11 km · EExplore →

Bird Habitat of Lake Nokoué17 km · NWExplore →

Friendship Stadium17 km · WExplore →

Lake Nokoué18 km · NWExplore →

Bulgaria Square18 km · NWExplore →

Ouémé River19 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Drabo Monkey Sanctuary (4)

Moulinier📍 landmark

A traditional windmill structure located near the monkey sanctuary in the Drabo region.

Complexe touristique agoualand(CTA)📍 landmark

A tourist complex offering recreational activities and amenities near the Drabo monkey sanctuary.

🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-17:00

JADET📍 landmark

A local tourist attraction situated within the natural surroundings of the Drabo monkey sanctuary area.

Forêt sanctuaire des singes à ventre roux de Drabo-Gbo🌿 nature

A protected nature reserve in Drabo-Gbo specifically dedicated to the conservation of the endangered red-bellied monkeys.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Which monkey species live in the Drabo sanctuary?

It is especially known for the rare red-bellied guenon (Cercopithecus erythrogaster).

Is it allowed to feed the monkeys?

No, feeding is prohibited to protect their natural behavior and health.

When is the best time for observation?

Early morning or late afternoon when the monkeys are most active.

Is a guide required?

Yes, local guides help in finding the shy animals in the dense forest.

What is the terrain like?

It is a small protected forest remnant with narrow paths.

Drabo Monkey Sanctuary: where is it located?

Drabo Monkey Sanctuary is located in Benin.

Drabo Monkey Sanctuary: what is there to see?

Highlights include Moulinier, Complexe touristique agoualand(CTA), JADET.

Drabo Monkey Sanctuary: when is the best time to visit?