How far in advance do I need to book?

Book at least 72 hours in advance; some premium or special requests may require one week and a $25 deposit—check availability when you reserve.

Can I feed the chimpanzees?

Yes—during the supervised Lunch Launch guests help feed chimpanzees under staff instruction; non-participants may watch but not touch the food.

Are there age limits or group-size restrictions?

No specific age limits provided, but the tour involves walking and stairs; check with staff if you have young children or large groups.

What accessibility accommodations are available?

An elevator reaches the second floor and a mobility cart (holds up to 5 people) is available; the rooftop requires 12 additional steps—request a cart when booking if needed.

What happens in bad weather?

Tours proceed in most weather; Lunch Launches are suspended in December–February and visits may be canceled for severe road or weather alerts.

Are restroom facilities available?

Restrooms are limited to port-a-potties in the parking area, so plan accordingly before or after your tour.

Behind-the-Scenes at Project Chimps: Supporter Tour + Lunch Launch in Georgia's Blue Ridge

Project Chimps’ Supporter Tour + Lunch Launch Package in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at chimpanzees living in expansive outdoor habitats. Meeting at 2031 Lowery Rd, Morganton, GA 30560, visitors walk across rolling hills, among mixed hardwoods and climbing structures where chimps choose their own routines—playing, sunning, or retreating to shade. The experience blends wildlife viewing with hands-on conservation support: a guided, volunteer-led Supporter Tour followed immediately by a rooftop Lunch Launch where guests help distribute midday food.

Tours run up to two hours and are paced for curious travelers rather than athletes; expect uneven walking, steep grades, and open air exposure. Guides point out habitat features—stone outcrops, layered climbing platforms, and well-vegetated corridors that mimic the chimps’ natural movement—and explain daily enrichment, social dynamics, and how the sanctuary balances animal welfare with public engagement. Because the chimpanzees are free to move, sightings are authentic and unscripted: part of the visit is accepting their agency and appreciating natural behavior when it happens.

Uniquely set in the Blue Ridge foothills, Project Chimps combines a sanctuary model with visitor access that emphasizes education and stewardship. The Lunch Launch is a rare chance to engage directly—safely and under supervision—with feeding operations from the Laurie & Carlee Chateau rooftop. Note that Lunch Launches pause in December through February due to unpredictable winter conditions. Accessibility options include an elevator to the second floor and a mobility cart for those who need assistance; the rooftop itself requires twelve additional steps.

Practical tips: book at least 72 hours in advance and expect to sign up online; volunteer staffing means scheduling needs lead time. Parking accommodates buses and carpooling is encouraged. Restrooms are limited to port-a-potties near the parking area, so plan accordingly. The sanctuary also supports modest celebrations—notify staff ahead if you want a gift bag or to cool a cake.

For travelers staying in nearby towns, Project Chimps makes a meaningful half-day outing—one that connects outdoor recreation with tangible conservation impact. The tone is educational rather than performative: you’ll leave with a clearer sense of chimp social life, the logistical care sanctuaries require, and a practical appreciation for wildlife that chooses when and how to appear. It’s an invitational experience: observe, assist, and become a supporter of an active sanctuary in Georgia’s mountain country.

Bring a camera with a telephoto lens and shoes; dawn and mid-morning visits capture active behavior. The Lunch Launch requires gloves and a mask, which Project Chimps supplies, and staff will coach you on protocols. Small groups preserve a calm atmosphere; tours can run any day including holidays. Consider combining the visit with a picnic at the site before or after to extend your connection meaningfully.

About Project Chimps

Project Chimps in Troutdale, Virginia operates a sanctuary and education site where visitors meet and observe rescued chimpanzees.

The organization offers a range of guided experiences designed for families, schools, homeschool groups, scouts, and supporters. Tour options include short youth group tours, curriculum-based and homeschool programs aligned with STEM learning, scout badge workshops, and longer service projects for scout troops.

Supporter tours and private visits provide opportunities to watch chimpanzees roam, play, and rest in outdoor habitats. Discovery Days bring families to the Blue Ridge Mountains for guided hikes, a visit to the Discovery Zone, and a picnic by the koi pond. The Banana Bus Tour adds door-to-door transport and a snack at The Nest for a convenient group outing.

School field trips and curriculum-based tours emphasize inquiry-based lessons that meet educational standards and take place during prime morning viewing hours. Homeschool programs offer three to four hour visits with tailored STEM activities and flexible customization for teachers and students. Scout programs include two hour badge workshops and four to seven hour service projects that combine tours, hands-on activities, and habitat or garden work.

Every visit supports the ongoing care of the chimpanzees through small donations and participation. Booking options include private supporter tours, supporter tours with a lunch launch, and group-focused experiences that accommodate educational goals. Visitors can expect guided walking tours through outdoor habitats and multiple program lengths to fit schedules. Advance reservations are recommended to secure preferred dates and times for school groups, scouts, families, supporters, and community attendees.