Did you know that there are over 130 species of Amazon Rainforest Monkeys?
One of the most exciting and interactive animals that we can experience in the Amazon, Monkeys are found in all kinds of shapes and sizes here – as well as in virtually all regions of the rainforest across the continent. However, if you’re planning a trip to see various species, it’s worth knowing how each type of Monkey is distinct, as well as where you are most likely to see them.
In this guide we’ll explore everything you need to know about Amazon Rainforest Monkeys, the different species we can find in South America, as well as where is best to spot them. As well as looking at why Peru is a great choice for spotting Monkeys on wildlife tours, we’ll also answer your most frequently asked questions in our FAQ section.
The Most Exciting Species Of Amazon Rainforest Monkeys To Spot
Howler Monkey
The natural alarm systems of the Amazon, Howler Monkeys are one of the loudest animals on the planet – generating growls from the special hyoid bone in their throat, which can travel several kilometres away through the rainforest. This species, which are either bright orange, red or black in colour, move slowly due to their slow metabolism – often sleeping for 80% of the day – and can mostly be heard during the late evenings and early mornings. Definitely one of the most fascinating Amazon animals to not only see but also hear during your tour!
Pygmy Marmoset
The smallest species of Monkeys on our planet, the Pygmy Marmoset has famously become known as the “hand-sized” Monkey, and only weighs up to 5 ounces. Having evolved sharp chisel-like teeth to bite into trees and suck the sap out – which is their standard diet – they rarely need to migrate far. Pygmy Marmosets can be found in many countries like Peru, Colombia, Brazil and Bolivia – and stick to flooded lowland forests and in dense vegetation to avoid predators.
Tamarin Monkeys
One of the smaller Amazon Rainforest Monkeys that we can spot, Tamarin Monkeys are known for the bright assortment of colours, with the Saddle-back being the most famous (with a mixture of gold, black and browns). Usually found dwelling in the lower parts of the jungle closer to the ground, they move fast and often link up with other types of Monkey species for protection when faced with predators. Tamarin Monkeys are also unique in that they practice Polyandry – where a female will mate with multiple males at the same time, who then compete to look after the offspring.
Capuchin Monkey
Capuchin Monkeys are one of the most popular species to spot in the Amazon, given their playful and curious nature (often getting up and close during our guided Amazon tours). They are the smartest of all Monkeys in this region, with a massive brain-to-body ratio that allows them to solve complex problems – such as using stones as crushing tools and sticks to poke out insects from deep holes. Capuchin Monkeys also have an extremely varied diet, eating everything from fruits and nuts to small birds and lizards.
Spider Monkeys
Next up we have one of the most acrobatic and high energy species of them all. Evolved entirely for high-speed movement, Spider Monkeys have strong tails that act as a fifth limb, while they have adapted to no longer have thumbs – with their hands instead becoming precision hooks for gliding across the Amazon Rainforest. Highly picky eaters, Spider Monkeys only eat fruit – and as such the presence of these colonies in an area often acts as a signal that these parts of the jungle are at their most healthiest.
Woolly Monkeys
Known as the gentle giants of the Monkey world, Wooly Monkeys are known for both their strong tails which can support their entire weight – as well as their thick fur which is essential as they prefer to live at higher elevations in the cooler High Amazon Rainforest. Slow-moving and known for their calm temperament (somewhat like the friendly Sloths of the rainforest) play an important part in maintaining the rainforest by eating large seeds that are in turn dispersed through the jungle in their droppings.
How To Best See Amazon Rainforest Monkeys In Peru
While they can be seen in many countries such as Brazil, Colombia and Bolivia – Peru is one of the overall best countries for Monkey sightings in South America. Hosting over half of all total species, it ranks in as the fifth best country on earth for primate diversity. Now while you can go visit certain national parks and trails by yourself and potentially see them, for the very best odds you’ll want to join a guided tour in the most population-dense regions of Peru.
The Tambopata region in Southern Peru is one of the very best for Monkey-spotting, where it’s common to see the Red Howler Monkey and hear it’s echoing shrieks in the late evenings and early mornings – as well as the Pygmy Marmoset which timidly hides on high branches. During a Tambopata Amazon Tour it’s also possible to spot Capuchin Monkeys, Spider Monkeys, Titi Monkeys and Squirrel Monkeys.
Frequently Asked Questions About Amazon Rainforest Monkeys
In this section we’ll now explore the most frequent questions we get about Amazon Rainforest Monkeys, as well as anything else you need to know.
What Is The Largest Monkey In The Amazon?
The Howler Monkeys are the largest of all the different Monkey species found in the Amazon Rainforest, which can measure up to a meter in height and also weigh up to 10kg. Known for their loud shrieks that travel over the jungle canopy and can be heard several kilometres away, they are a star highlight to both spot and experience on any Amazon jungle tour – and can be found in a striking contrast of colours which include bright orange, red and black.
What Type Of Monkeys Live In The Amazon Rainforest?
There are over 130 reported species of Monkeys present in the Amazon Rainforest, which include the well-known Howler Monkeys and Capuchin Monkeys. Many come in an assortment of bright and varied colours which are exciting to spot, while others can be very unique – such as the tiny Pygmy Marmoset which measures up to 15cm long, and is the smallest species of Monkey on Earth.
Do Howler Monkeys Live In Peru?
Yes, Howler Monkeys can be found in Peru, with a total of 5 different species being found within the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest. Sub-species here include the bright red and orange Venezuelan and Purús Howler Monkeys, as well as the black Mantled Howler Monkey. Areas like the Tambopata National Reserve and Manu National Park are the very best for spotting them, which are both easily accessible from Cusco.
Overview Of The Different Species Of Amazon Rainforest Monkeys
And that’s all for this guide on the different species of Amazon Rainforest Monkeys that we can spot in South America.
One of the most exciting species to experience for their playful nature and boldness around humans, Monkeys are found in almost all regions of the Amazon Jungle. While they can be found in many countries like Brazil, Colombia and Bolivia – Peru remains the best for the most diversity and high rates of spotting during tours, and especially when going with an experienced jungle tour operator.
Are you looking for the most unforgettable Amazon adventure here in Peru? Here at TroncoTambopata we operate our 3 Day Amazon Rainforest Tour, where our lead guides will help your group encounter various Monkey species, enjoy unforgettable jungle trekking, as well as spot other exotic species such as Capybaras, Caiman and Macaw Parrots along the way.