THE MONKEYS OF THE SACRED FOREST OF GBÊPLEU

Adjacent to a small cemetery in this hamlet located west of Man, this sacred monkey forest is home to a population of Campbell's monkeys. According to some legends, these monkeys are the descendants of human beings who were transformed into primates to escape from the settlers. A bit like the sacred monkeys of the village of Soko in Bondoukou. It is strictly forbidden to enter the wooded sanctuary where these monkeys reside, the totem animals of the Yacoubas. However, one can stop at the roadside of the sanctuary and, after having previously stocked up on a few bananas, bread or corn cobs, begin the approach work in order to attract the greedy animals to the edge of the wood. The small animals may be a little slow to show themselves, encouraged by the whistles and clicks of the guides' and visitors' tongues. However, once they have become accustomed to the presence of humans and caught in the trap of their own greed, they will continue their amusing process of gauging and hastily capturing the booty and rushing back to the shelter of the trees until you have exhausted your food reserves. Although it is customary to report to the village chief before starting the tour, the site is free to enter at a reasonable price, so don't be mystified by self-proclaimed "primate managers" who will try to get you to pay to call the monkeys. It is best to be accompanied by a guide.