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
Great visit to Chimp Eden. Very interesting tour and it was really nice to meet the Chimpanzees. They are lucky to be with you, after all the hardships they went through - Micky
Our tour guide Zack was so knowledgeable and clearly passionate about the chimps here. We had an amazing tour and every member in my group decided to sponsor a Chimpanzee after hearing their stories and getting to meet them. This organization clearly put the animals first and it shows how much they care, its not about the tourism. Thankyou for all of the hard work you do here to give these animals their lives back. - Sherry
Absolutely worth it! A great place to visit when in Mbombela and learn about the chimpanzees in the sanctuary. The tour was excellent thanks to the knowledgeable guide who cares a lot about the chimpanzees. It actually exceeded my expectations and I'm glad I decided to visit the place. - Ales
An excellent tour. Well worth it. - MR
We took our two grandchildren to Chimp Eden for a tour. They thoroughly enjoyed the very informative tour and the antics of the chimpanzees, and ended up each adopting their favourite. - Peet
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