The JGI SA Chimpanzee Eden is within the 1000 hectare Umhloti Nature Reserve, and is a home to chimpanzees that have been misplaced from their natural habitats in Central Africa. The world renowned Jane Goodall Institute has made this tranquil venue their South African sanctuary and is committed to the rescue and care of chimpanzees in need of refuge. Being the first and only chimpanzee sanctuary in South Africa, this brings the world of chimpanzees closer to humanity through education and tourism. Entering the reserve, a mere 15 km from the bustling city of Nelspruit, visitors are captivated by the beautiful bush surroundings with plains game species free roaming. The reserve is located in a low risk malaria area
The goal of the JGI SA Sanctuary is to rescue some of the chimpanzees that have survived the bush meat trade; others have been orphaned and are traded in the illegal pet trade to zoos, circuses and medical research facilities. These chimps are the lucky ones, living out their lives in a risk free environment and provided with the necessary attention to recover from the trauma that they have experienced.
Visitors have a unique opportunity to see chimpanzees in semi-wild surroundings that are close to their natural habitat. The chimps now show normal social interaction and behavioral patterns. The enclosures also have viewpoints overlooking the forest and ‘foraging areas’ These areas provide the chimps with endless hours of fun and are essential for keeping boredom at bay, they also help to positively reinforce natural behaviour. Chimps, like other great apes such as gorillas and orangutans, are a constant source of interest and amusement to the general public. Viewing platforms provide visitors with a great opportunity to view at our closest relatives!
The Jane Goodall Institute South Africa
We had an awesome time at Chimp Eden. Jane Goodall is a hero to us, so it was really special to visit one of the few dedicated chimpanzee rescue sanctuaries and see her Roots & Shoots work come to life. Our guide, Cornell, was knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly passionate about chimpanzees. We learned a lot about their stories and the broader conservation efforts, which made the experience even more meaningful. Watching the chimps up close as they ate, groomed, played, and even argued with one another was truly amazing. You get a real sense of their personalities and complex social lives, all while knowing they are in a place focused on their care and rehabilitation. If you're passionate about chimpanzees, Jane Goodall's work, or want to witness chimp rescue and rehabilitation in person, we highly recommend visiting Chimp Eden. - Rikhav
It was incredible to have the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures. Thank you for the work you do - it is very inspiring. - Ilana
This is an excellen initiative. Our children were very happy and excited. I hope that the place can be marketed more. It was also nice to note our resemblance to Chimpanzees, - Charles
It was a amazing experience with interesting facts about chimps. The tour guide knowledge about them are remarkable and share a lot with us - Laurens
It was an awesome, yet sad, experience. To hear the stories of these amazing animals and not feel deeply for them is nearly impossible. Martin, our guide, is extremely knowledgeable and seems fully passionate about his work. It was inspiring to see his engagement with the chimps and with the group. The operation seems well-run, but it looks as if more funding is always welcome. - Freddie
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