The Drills of Bioko Island: A Rare Primate You Can Only See Here

Bioko Island, in Equatorial Guinea, is one of the last safe refuges for the drill monkey (Mandrillus leucophaeus) — one of the most endangered primates on Earth and a close relative of the mandrill.

If you are a wildlife lover or a nature photographer, Bioko offers a unique opportunity: to see drills in the wild, something that is almost impossible in other parts of the world.

What are drills?

Drills are strong, powerful monkeys recognizable by:

Dark black face with a bright red lower lip

Strong body and short tail

Males can be twice the size of females

They are shy and intelligent animals that live in the forests and volcanic mountains of Bioko.

📌 Conservation status: Endangered Species

📌 Lifespan: Up to 30 years

📌 Group size: up to 30 individuals

Where can you find drills in Bioko Island?

Drills mainly inhabit the south and central forest areas, including:

Location Why it’s important

Pico Basile: Dense forests ideal for primates.

Moka:Strong conservation area with rivers and trees.

Gran Caldera de Luba: One of the best-preserved rainforests in Africa!

Ureka: High biodiversity, sea + jungle

Best way to see them: with local eco-tour guides specializing in wildlife

Why are drills so important?

•Only found in Bioko Island and a small region of Nigeria and Cameroon.

•They help maintain the forest by spreading seeds.

• They are part of the natural and cultural identity of Equatorial Guinea

Bioko holds one of the largest remaining populations in the world.

Protecting them means protecting the island’s future.

⚠️ Threats to drills

Despite ongoing conservation efforts, drills face:

🚫 Hunting (bushmeat trade)

🚫 Deforestation

🚫 Habitat fragmentation

Many conservation groups and the Equatoguinean government are working to protect them.

Ethical Tourism: See drills without harming nature!

When planning your wildlife adventure:

✅ Respect distance

✅ Avoid loud noises

✅ Do not feed animals

✅ Support local conservation projects

Travelers who choose responsible tourism help protect drills and other species.

Visit Bioko Island for a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience

If you dream of seeing rare animals, tropical rainforests and majestic mountains — Bioko Island is the perfect destination.

📩 Contact us: info@ecuatrekturismo.com

We organize:

Hiking to Pico Basile

Eco-tours in Moka & Ureka

Wildlife experiences focused on primates and sea turtles.

Discover the wild heart of Bioko Island in its best way!