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Visit the Macaque Valley to enjoy the beautiful scenery and observe the macaques in their natural habitat. You can take a guided walk through the valley, where the monkeys roam freely, and you may also participate in feeding sessions or photography tours. Be sure to capture the stunning views of the valley and surrounding forests.
Macaque Valley is located in the Yuntaishan Scenic Area. Yuntaishan is a national macaque nature reserve with a large number of wild macaque groups distributed in the scenic area.
Taihang macaques live in mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forests, shrub forests and cliffs all year round. They like to live in groups, led by a monkey king and equipped with guard monkeys and sentinel monkeys. There are usually about a hundred members in each group. They forage during the day and sleep on cliffs at night. They mainly eat plant-based food and are omnivorous animals.
Since the Taihang macaques are a group of macaques living in a cold climate and at the northernmost latitude, and surrounded by steep mountains, the macaques are large and strong, with long hair and short tails. They are good at climbing, like to jump, are agile, have handsome bodies, and are strong in imitation. They are the most evolved species of macaques and have high scientific research value, economic value and ornamental value.
Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and autumn
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
Included in the Yuntaishan ticket
Peak season: March 1st - November 30th , 6 :30-18:30
Off-season : December 1st to the end of February of the following year , 7:00-17:30
The Macaque Valley is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity, particularly the population of wild macaques that inhabit the region. It's an important ecological site, offering visitors a unique chance to observe these intelligent creatures in a natural environment.
The Macaque Valley is located in Jiaozuo, Henan Province. You can reach it by taxi from the city center or by private car. Public transportation options like buses may be limited, so checking the local transport network in advance is recommended.
The Macaque Valley is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the monkeys are most active.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local tourism platforms. It's advisable to check for any seasonal discounts or promotions.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary but recommended during peak tourist seasons (like weekends or holidays) to avoid waiting in long queues.
It typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to explore the Macaque Valley, including a hike through the trails, time spent observing the macaques, and visiting the scenic viewpoints. You may want to plan for longer if you wish to take part in feeding sessions or photography tours.
The main highlight is the macaques themselves. Be sure to visit the areas where they gather and watch them interact in their natural environment. The panoramic viewpoints of the valley are also spectacular, offering great photo opportunities.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they provide insightful information about the wildlife and ecology of the area. Audio guides in English may be available, but it's recommended to confirm this in advance.
The best photography spots are along the walking trails, especially near the macaques' resting areas and the scenic viewpoints where you can capture both the monkeys and the expansive valley views.
Start by exploring the main walking trail that leads to the best macaque observation areas. From there, take a detour to the viewpoints for breathtaking shots of the valley. If available, join a feeding session to get an up-close experience with the monkeys.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available. The park operates during daylight hours only, so plan your visit accordingly to enjoy the natural surroundings and active wildlife.
The Macaque Valley can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, outside of peak travel seasons.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available. There are also small food stalls selling snacks and drinks, but no full-service restaurants inside the valley. It is advisable to bring water and snacks if planning a long visit.
While the main trails are suitable for children and elderly visitors, some areas may be difficult for those with mobility issues due to the rugged terrain. It’s best to check with the staff for accessible paths or alternative routes.
Both cash and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at the entrance and food stalls. It's advisable to carry some cash as a backup, especially if there are any issues with mobile payment systems.
Inside the park, only snack stalls are available, but there are several local restaurants and cafes in Jiaozuo city where visitors can enjoy a wider variety of meals.
Vegetarian food options can be found at nearby restaurants, but vegan and halal options may be more limited. It’s best to check with local eateries in Jiaozuo for specific dietary needs.
There are several hotels in Jiaozuo, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. Higher-end options are also available for those looking for more luxurious stays.
Nearby attractions include the Jiaozuo Geological Park, Longmen Grottoes, and Yuntai Mountain. These sites can be easily combined into a scenic day trip from Macaque Valley.
There are souvenir shops selling local crafts, animal-themed trinkets, and traditional Chinese handicrafts. Common souvenirs include postcards, stuffed animals, and keychains.
After visiting, taxis or local buses are the best options to continue your trip to nearby attractions or back to Jiaozuo city center for further transportation.
