How long is the visit?

The program runs approximately three hours, split between a walking tour and a lesson period.

What group sizes are allowed?

Groups must be between 10 and 40 students for Cirricula-Based Tours; larger groups should book the Field Trip option.

When are chimps most active?

Chimps tend to be most active in the morning, so early start times increase viewing opportunities.

No — Project Chimps does not provide lunch. A refrigerator and microwave are available for limited use for special needs.

Can buses park on-site?

Yes — bus drivers are permitted to park, and up to five buses can park and turn around in the main parking lot.

Cirricula-Based Tours at Project Chimps: STEM Field Trips in Morganton, GA

Project Chimps’ Cirricula-Based Tours place students face-to-face with a working animal sanctuary in rural Morganton, Georgia. Located at 2031 Lowery Rd, Morganton, GA 30560, this three-hour program blends a guided walking tour with a classroom-style lesson, making an ideal field trip for groups from 10 to 40 children. The tour route follows compacted dirt roads through mixed hardwood and pine forest where chimpanzee habitats come into view; chimps are most active in the morning, so scheduling early sessions improves viewing and discussion opportunities.

Your group spends the first hour on a walking tour that traces service lanes and viewing points, offering unobstructed looks at social chimp behaviors and enclosure design. The second portion is a customizable lesson tied to Georgia Board of Education standards: choose from prebuilt STEM modules or design a lesson that fits your curriculum. Educators appreciate the flexibility—activity selections are made before arrival so the day supports specific learning objectives and engagement levels.

Logistics are straightforward. Groups must reserve at least one month ahead and confirm final head count seven days before the visit. Fees are $10 per student; one chaperone per ten students is admitted free and additional chaperones pay the standard adult rate of $35. Payment is required at least seven days prior to the visit, and cancellations made seven days before the scheduled date receive a full refund. Buses can park and turn around in the main lot; up to five buses are accommodated.

Physically, expect a moderate walk on dirt roads—sturdy shoes are recommended. Project Chimps notes the walking tour is similar to a moderate hike; special accommodations may be arranged by advance request. Lunch is not provided, though a refrigerator and microwave are available for limited use for special needs. Bring picnic blankets or chairs for comfortable dining if you plan to eat on site.

This program stands out because it pairs direct wildlife observation with curriculum-aligned instruction on site at a dedicated sanctuary. It suits teachers looking to convert textbook lessons into live inquiry: students practice observation, ask scientific questions, and return with concrete examples of animal behavior. Tours operate rain or shine; in cases of severe weather Project Chimps will issue refunds or reschedule. For schools seeking an immersive, standards-based field trip in Northeast Georgia, Cirricula-Based Tours delivers an accountable, hands-on afternoon that foregrounds animal welfare, science, and student curiosity.

Expect staff educators to lead demonstrations, encourage hypothesis-driven observation, and provide hands-on materials such as data sheets and binoculars where available. The sanctuary emphasizes respectful viewing distance and animal welfare: staff will explain enclosure management, enrichment tools, and behavior cues. Bring water, sun protection, and a small notepad for student observations—these simple tools make the day more productive and focused.

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.