Monkeys in Asia

The most common type of monkeys in Asia is called a macaque. Long-tailed macaques are not shy at all. Sometimes these monkeys are also aggressive. Be careful!

They’re not shy, and often allow you to get close. This makes for some wonderful closeup photos like this one (below) from Bako National Park.

Another travel photographer said this wildlife shot of a long-tailed macaque (the monkey in the above photo) should be the next cover of Lonely Planet Borneo. Perhaps! I’m really flattered by the compliment! I need to thank the photogenic monkeys that were so kind to pose for me.

Getting this photo:

Shots like this are challenging, because this monkey doesn’t typically pose for you. Macro shots aren’t compatible with motion. Thus, you can’t predict eye contact from wildlife. You need to be in the right focus to have the monkey crisp with the background blurred. This helps the photo really pop! In contrast, I love the composition of the lower photo, but it requires zoom. This makes the depth of field much more flat.

Pronunciation for the most common monkeys in Asia

Yes, the correct pronunciation for this monkey is actually Muh-kok. [Giggle giggle]

Macaque monkeys in Asia on my trip

The monkey I saw most often on my trip through Asia was the macaque. When I first saw long-tailed macaques on the cliffs of Ulu Watu, in Bali Indonesia, I thought it was a rare opportunity. Then I saw plenty more throughout my trip. I soon learned they’re all over Asia!

I’ve seen lots of wildlife in my trip – the baby orangutans, baby elephants, and baby monkeys (macaques) in Borneo were adorable!  I also saw other types of animals up close – camels, tarsiers, proboscis monkeys, sharks, and more!

Wildlife section of my travel blog.

Click below for the Lonely Planet Borneo guide – I used a LP guide throughout my backpacking trip. And here’s more info on macaques.