Deep in the heart of the Duke Forest lies the Duke Lemur Center (DLC), a sprawling 100-acre complex that houses over 200 lemurs across 14 different species. Founded in 1966, the DLC is open to the public and educates more than 35,000 visitors annually. Its highly successful conservation breeding program seeks to preserve vanishing species, and its Madagascar Conservation Programs study and protect lemurs, the world’s most endangered group of mammals. Tours are available by appointment in the warmer months, typically May-September.
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Hours:
Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
We had an outstanding experience on the behind-the-scenes tour at the Duke Lemur Center, guided by Ethan. The facilities were incredibly impressive, and getting a glimpse into what happens beyond the public areas was fascinating. Ethan’s knowledge and enthusiasm really stood out—he was not only well-informed but also engaging and clearly passionate about the work being done at the center.
Throughout the tour, we enjoyed great conversations with Ethan and learned so much about the various lemur species and the center’s ongoing research efforts. One of the biggest highlights was visiting the nocturnal lemurs. It was a unique and memorable part of the tour, made even better by having a guide who could share in-depth insights and answer all our questions.
Overall, the visit was both educational and inspiring. We highly recommend the behind-the-scenes tour to anyone interested in wildlife, conservation, or just a truly special experience.
Sung T
May 29, 2025
5
We had an amazing time at the Duke Lemur Center! A big shoutout to Ethan, who was feeding the lemurs during our visit. He spoke to the crowd with the perfect mix of humor and fascinating facts—we learned a lot and had a great time doing it. His energy and passion for the animals really stood out. Highly recommend visiting!
Benjamin Stein
May 17, 2025
5
Very cool to have the chance to see these animals. Our “walking with lemurs” tour was cancelled for weather but Zack gave us a lovely tour of what was available.
Catherine Avon
Mar 21, 2025
5
What an amazing experience! My 16 year old daughter and I did a Behind the Scenes visit yesterday afternoon with the excellent guidance of Center educators Abby and Anna. We learned so much about these incredible and adaptive endangered mammals. We were able to meet a 3 month baby and observe his behaviors (including stealing a peanut from his mother) as the staff did a training for recall in preparation of allowing the lemurs outdoor access in the warmer months. Our leaders shared so much information and even did a feeding with some of the smallest nocturnal species.This amazing team of scientists, educators, and animal caretaking is a true gem. We highly encourage visitors to support the Center.
Austin Baker
Sep 3, 2024
5
Incredible experience! We can't wait to go back :)
R.A. O.
Aug 25, 2024
5
What a great experience! I thoroughly enjoyed watching these beautiful creatures. Zack was an awesome guide and knew so much. He was patient with questions and made this a very educational and fun visit. Will definitely visit the lemurs again.
Darlene Rogers
Aug 25, 2024
5
My husband and I did the walking with lemurs tour at 8:15AM. Totally worth the early wake up. Saw five different species of lemurs and were able to get close for some great experiences. Recommend for all the lemur lovers out there.
Rebecca Kolman
Aug 22, 2024
5
The Lemur Center tour was a lovely experience. It is fun to walk through an area that they live and play and see/hear them interact together.
Ethan was a great guide - he was engaging and answered so many of our group's questions. He even went back through our route to find something I dropped along the way.
This is a very unique experience that any animal lover would find special.
