Step off the beaten path and spend 60 to 90 minutes watching chimpanzees move through open habitats at Supporter Tours. Book early, dress for uneven ground, and arrive in the morning for the best chance to observe active behavior.
Step off the beaten path and spend 60 to 90 minutes watching chimpanzees move through open habitats at Supporter Tours. Book early, dress for uneven ground, and arrive in the morning for the best chance to observe active behavior.
Book with Project Chimps
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Project Chimps · Morganton, Georgia
Supporter Tours at projectchimps bring visitors into a working chimpanzee sanctuary on the rolling hills outside Morganton, Georgia. Located at 2031 Lowery Rd, Morganton, GA 30560, these private 60 to 90 minute walking tours offer an intimate window into chimpanzee lives as animals climb hardwoods, use tall climbing structures, and relax on ridge top ledges. Tours run nearly every day at 10:00 or 11:00 a m, and general Supporter Tours can sometimes start as late as 2:00 p m by arrangement. All visits must be booked at least 72 hours in advance.
The experience is defined by choice and space. Chimpanzees are free to roam the hills, trees and enrichment structures, and they determine when and where to be visible. Guests may witness social grooming, playful chasing, foraging in planted areas, or quiet solitary moments in shaded hollows. Habitat features include mature native trees that double as natural observation platforms, grassy slopes that provide viewing elevation, and engineered climbing frames that highlight primate power and balance. Volunteer guides lead small private groups and provide background on individual chimp histories, welfare objectives, and daily care practices while keeping a respectful distance.
Practical details are straightforward. The walking tour includes some steep grades and uneven ground, so wear sturdy shoes and expect a moderate level of exertion. A cart that holds up to five people is available for visitors with mobility needs if selected during booking, and the team can arrange wheelchair accommodation ahead of time. Parking is available and buses can be accommodated, but carpooling is encouraged to reduce local traffic. Restroom options at the parking area are portable toilets. The sanctuary operates in ordinary weather but may cancel only for severe weather that impacts roads and volunteer availability.
This is an observational wildlife experience rather than an interactive encounter. Sightings cannot be guaranteed because chimpanzees choose their locations, so mornings tend to be best for activity. Photographers will do best with a telephoto lens and a quiet approach. For special occasions the staff can help arrange modest extras such as a gift bag or cake storage if requested in advance.
Supporter Tours are a meaningful way to support a volunteer run sanctuary while learning about rescued chimpanzees thriving in spacious, naturalistic settings. For travelers based in Morganton or nearby mountain towns, the visit fits as a focused half day outing that combines animal behavior, conservation education, and real world wildlife observation that lingers after you leave.
Plan to arrive early, bring bottled water, and respect signage and staff instructions; donations and merchandise purchases directly support the sanctuary and its rehabilitation programs. Ask about volunteer opportunities and educational programs to extend your visit into community support for chimpanzee care and research.
moderate.
60–90 minutes.
Expect moderate walking with some steep grades; suitable for most visitors who can manage uneven terrain.
All bookings must be made at least 72 hours in advance because tours are volunteer led and require scheduling.
No. The chimpanzees decide where to spend their day, so sightings are common but not guaranteed; mornings offer the best chance for activity.
A cart that holds up to five people is available if selected during booking, and wheelchair accommodation can be arranged ahead of time.
The only restroom facilities at the parking area are portable toilets, so plan accordingly before or after your visit.
Tours proceed in ordinary weather, but the sanctuary may cancel only for severe weather that impacts roads, travel, or volunteer availability.
Yes. You may bring a snack or lunch for the picnic areas, and modest celebration arrangements like gift bags or cake storage can be coordinated in advance.
Tours are volunteer led and the program emphasizes rehabilitation and care; bookings and guide availability reflect that operational model.
Visitors are encouraged to carpool to reduce site traffic; donations, merchandise sales, and bookings directly support sanctuary care and rehabilitation programs.
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