The Montagne des Singes at Kintzheim is a large wooded park on the slopes below Haut-Koenigsbourg, home to a big colony of Barbary macaques that live in semi-freedom. The idea is unusual: instead of watching animals behind bars, you follow a path through the forest while the monkeys wander, play, groom each other and sometimes sit within arm's length of the path. Visitors can buy popcorn at the entrance to hand to the monkeys, with rules about how to do it safely, and keepers explain the behaviour of the group at feeding times. Young macaques tumble and chase each other in spring and summer, which makes the visit especially lively for children. The park sits in a mountain forest, so the setting is cool and shady, and the paths are mostly gentle. It is a popular half-day outing for families who want something different from castles and villages, and it pairs easily with Haut-Koenigsbourg or the nearby birds-of-prey centre, so it fits naturally into a day around Sélestat and the Wine Route.
The rules matter
The monkeys are wild-minded animals, and the park asks visitors to follow clear rules. Do not touch them, do not stare directly into their eyes, keep bags closed, and feed them only with the food sold at the entrance and only as the staff instruct. Do not take food of your own out of a bag near the animals. These rules keep both visitors and macaques safe, and staff are present on the paths to help. Children should be supervised closely, and very young children are best carried or held by hand.
What to expect
The route is a loop through woodland, with several viewing points and feeding areas where macaques gather. The animals are used to people and often ignore visitors, but they can be quick when food is involved. Spring and early summer are lively because of the young animals, while autumn brings fresh air and colour in the forest.
Allow at least one and a half to two hours, more if you linger, and bring a jacket since the forest is cooler than the valley. Footwear should be sturdy rather than smart, because paths can be uneven and muddy after rain.
Planning
The park is open seasonally, usually from spring to autumn, and it closes during the colder months, so confirm the opening dates for your trip before you set out. Reaching it is easiest by car, about thirty minutes from Colmar, and parking is available. The park is close to Haut-Koenigsbourg castle, so a combined outing is natural, castle in the morning and monkeys after lunch, or the reverse. Nearby is also a birds-of-prey show in a castle setting, which adds variety.
Pushchairs can manage some paths, but a carrier is easier on slopes. Check accessibility details with the park and bring water and a camera with a secure strap, as the animals are curious about shiny objects. Leave dangling jewellery and loose items at the hotel, and keep sunglasses and phones in a secure pocket. A picnic is best eaten outside the park area, away from the animals, so choose a spot in the car park area or a nearby village once your walk is over.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided forest walk among free-roaming Barbary macaques, with optional popcorn feeding and keeper talks.
Best time
Spring and summer for lively young monkeys; check opening months, as the park does not open in the coldest season.
How long
One and a half to two and a half hours, plus about thirty minutes' drive each way.
Tips
Follow the feeding rules, keep bags closed, wear sturdy shoes and combine with Haut-Koenigsbourg.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with children who love animals, and anyone who wants a different kind of Alsace day.
- Families
- Thrilling and safe when the rules are followed; hold young children's hands and keep food out of sight.
- Couples
- A playful change of pace, followed by a lunch in a nearby wine village.
- Pair with
- Haut-Koenigsbourg castle, the birds-of-prey centre and a lunch in Kintzheim or Ribeauvillé.
- Time needed
- Half a day including the drive.
Good questions
Where is the Montagne des Singes?+
It is at Kintzheim, near Sélestat and below Haut-Koenigsbourg castle, about thirty minutes by car from Colmar.
Can I feed the monkeys?+
Yes, but only with the popcorn sold at the entrance and only following the rules explained by staff.
Is it open all year?+
No. The park opens seasonally and closes in the colder months, so check the opening dates before you travel.
Is it safe for children?+
It is designed for families, but children must be supervised closely, kept from touching the animals and carry no loose food.
How long should I allow?+
Plan one and a half to two hours in the park, and half a day if you combine it with the castle.
