Spend a morning at Project Chimps’ Discovery Days VIP at 2031 Lowery Rd in Morganton — an up-close, educational tour of a sanctuary for former research chimpanzees. VIP perks include the Banana Bus circuit, early arrival, coffee, and a Q&A with staff.
Spend a morning at Project Chimps’ Discovery Days VIP at 2031 Lowery Rd in Morganton — an up-close, educational tour of a sanctuary for former research chimpanzees. VIP perks include the Banana Bus circuit, early arrival, coffee, and a Q&A with staff.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Project Chimps · Morganton, Georgia
moderate.
1–4 hours.
Comfortable walking fitness with the ability to handle short steep sections and roughly 60 minutes of intermittent hiking.
Guests are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes prior to your chosen tour slot for check-in and to receive your exact tour time.
Sightings are highly likely but not guaranteed; chimpanzees can choose to stay in forested areas and out of view.
The site is listed as wheelchair accessible, but some gravel roads and inclines may be challenging—contact staff if you need a cart tour slot.
There are restrooms before tours, but no restrooms on the walking route; plan accordingly.
The event runs rain or shine as a fundraiser; there are no refunds for weather, so dress for conditions.
VIP includes early arrival, upfront parking, a Banana Bus driven tour, coffee and muffins during a Q&A with staff, indoor plumbing access, and event swag.
The site operates as a sanctuary caring for former research chimpanzees and hosts public events to fund ongoing animal care and education.
The program emphasizes minimal disturbance: visitors must reschedule if ill, follow staff guidance, and stay on designated paths to reduce stress on animals and habitat.
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.
Book with Project Chimps