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
The tour was was absolutely delightful. Our guide was very knowledgeable and we learned allot of interesting things about the various species there. It is very easy to see how much passion they have for caring for the monkeys there and o would definitely recommend a visit there too anyone. - Hans
Tres belle visite a faire absolument pour voir les chimpanzes. Les explications semblent precises et detaillees mais notre niveau d anglais ne nous a pas permis de tout comprendre. Animaux tres bien traites. - thierry
Very interesting, lovely to see the chimps in a more natural environment than a zoo. This is my second visit and it was very enjoyable although extremely hot. It is heart breaking to hear the sad stories of where some of the chimps came from and how they have been exploited and abused. I bought Jane Goodall's autobiography by Dale Peterson at Chimp Eden which I am currently reading. - Roz
Heartbreaking stories, hopeful endings: Chimp Eden is a must Our visit to Chimp Eden, the Jane Goodall Institute sanctuary near Mbombela, was one of the most moving stops of our time in South Africa. Our guide told us the histories of several chimps, many of them rescued from the pet and entertainment trades or orphaned by the bushmeat trade. Some of those stories were hard to hear. What makes the visit worthwhile is seeing where those chimps are now: safe, well cared for, and living with dignity. You leave understanding exactly what the Institute does and why it matters. Well worth the visit. Every ticket supports their work. - Stacey
What an experience, I was super impressed with Martin's knowledge, his respect for the animals and his complete understanding of their communication and behaviour!! - Erika
© 2026 Tornado Tour Systems (Pty) Ltd ta Activitar.
