Join a unique morning with gibbons at the Gibbon Conservation Center, where you can learn about primate conservation over breakfast with the director. Discover the fascinating behaviors of these remarkable creatures in a setting designed to mimic their natural habitat.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical ability recommended for walking around the center
Wildlife
History
Founded in the early 1990s, the Gibbon Conservation Center was established by researchers dedicated to primate conservation and education.
Conservation
The center actively participates in international efforts to protect endangered gibbons and educate the public about deforestation and illegal pet trade.
Gibbon Conservation Center
Join a unique morning with gibbons at the Gibbon Conservation Center, where you can learn about primate conservation over breakfast with the director. Discover the fascinating behaviors of these remarkable creatures in a setting designed to mimic their natural habitat.
The Gibbon Conservation Center (GCC) in Santa Clarita, California, is a living research and education facility dedicated to the conservation and study of gibbons. Established in 1976, the center houses some of the rarest apes in the Western Hemisphere and combines public education, non-invasive research, and active participation in global conservation efforts.
GCC offers a range of visitor experiences designed to inform and inspire. Public tours introduce guests to gibbon behavior, natural history, and the center’s role in species survival plans. The Sunrise Tour highlights early-morning vocalizations for a distinctive viewing opportunity, while Private Tours provide a focused, educational visit tailored to small groups. The Coffee with the Director experience includes a continental breakfast, a two-hour session for up to four guests, and direct engagement with the director’s research and insights.
All visitor programs emphasize hands-off observation, animal welfare, and evidence-based care. The center collaborates with conservation partners and participates in species survival planning and educational outreach. Visitors learn about habitat loss, conservation priorities, and how captive care supports research and awareness. The Gibbon Conservation Center’s long history, focused mission, and transparent visitor programs make it a reliable destination for anyone seeking an educational, ethically run gibbon facility in Southern California.
Founded
1976
Decades of conservation experience
Location
Santa Clarita, CA
Accessible in northern Los Angeles County
Tours
4 Experiences
Public, Sunrise, Private, Director
Small Groups
Up to 4
Intimate, focused experiences
Reserve a Public Tour, Sunrise Tour, Private Tour, or Coffee with the Director to support gibbon research and see these rare apes in Santa Clarita.
Arrive Early
Get the most out of your visit by arriving early to see the gibbons during their most active morning hours.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate attire suitable for limited walking and outdoor viewing.
Bring binoculars
Enhance your viewing experience with binoculars to observe the gibbons' motion and social interactions.
Respect Wildlife Closely
Follow all guidelines to avoid disturbing the animals and ensure a respectful visit.
Binoculars
Use for better viewing of gibbons and their behaviors from a distance.
Sun Protection
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect against the sun during outdoor viewing.
summer
Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
Notebook and Pen
Useful for jotting down notes and interesting facts during the tour.