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 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
Visiting Chimp Eden was a truly special highlight of our trip. The guided tour was incredibly empathetic and highly educational from start to finish. Our guide shared a wealth of knowledge about chimpanzee behavior and the tragic backstories of the rescues.What touched us the most was how beautifully the genuine love, passion, and deep sense of responsibility for these animals was communicated by the staff. You can truly feel that the well-being of the chimps is their absolute top priority.It is inspiring to see these chimpanzees getting a second chance at a peaceful life. I highly recommend visiting this sanctuary to support their vital conservation work!Danke! - Kerstin
A wonderful educational experience. Zach was so knowledgeable and his love for the chimps was evident in his interactions with them. The facility is top notch and well worth the visit. The chimps are well cared for and the work done to erase their horrible past experiences is most appreciated. - Linda
Enjoyed my chimp visit. The tour leader was extremely knowledgeable and the chimps enjoy their current surroundings. - Patrick
Our small-group tour with the guide was very informative. It moved us deeply to see these animals living in dignity, free from the hardships and cruel treatment they previously suffered at the hands of humans. - Renata
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