Chimp Haven, the world’s largest chimpanzee sanctuary, is opening its doors once again for a rare public event this spring. Chimpanzee Discovery Day returnson Saturday, April 12, from 9 a.m. to noon, giving visitors of all ages the chance to explore the lush, forested habitats where more than 300 chimpanzees live and play.
One of only two public access days each year, the event offers visitors a rare chance to explore the sanctuary. Animal sanctuaries, dedicated to providing care in natural settings, are rarely open to the public – making this event a unique opportunity to:
- Observe chimpanzees in their expansive, naturalistic habitats,
- Meet the experts who provide their daily care
- Learn about the chimpanzee residents who now call the sanctuary home after retirement from biomedical research
“Discovery Day is a chance for visitors to experience the joy, connection, and personality that make life at Chimp Haven so special,” said Chimp Haven President and CEO Rana Smith. “It’s also our way of thanking the community for its continued support. These events often sell out, so we encourage guests to get their tickets early.”
Throughout the morning, visitors can engage in educational chats with caregivers about the chimps’ personalities, diets, and specialized veterinary care. A behind-the-scenes tour will offer a deeper look at the sanctuary, and a limited number of hayride tickets will be available for those wanting a guided experience through areas not typically open to the public.
Event Details: Chimpanzee Discovery Day is open to all ages. Advance tickets are available online only at chimphaven.org/events.
- Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
- Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. (Chimps are most active in the morning!)
- Tickets: Available online only at chimphaven.org/events
- Tickets are $20 for adult visitors aged 13 and older, $10 for children ages 5 through 12, and free for children four and younger.
More Ways to Visit Chimp Haven:
Can’t make it this time? There are other ways to experience the sanctuary:
- Brunch in the Wild – May 17: Enjoy a unique morning featuring brunch, a private tour, and up-close chimps observation. Open to guests ages seven and older. More details at: chimphaven.org/event/brunch-in-the-wild-may-2025
- Fall Chimpanzee Discovery Day – October 18: The fall edition of Chimp Haven’s signature event, featuring seasonal activities and another chance for public access. Learn more at: chimphaven.org/event/chimpanzee-discovery-day
For those looking for a more personal and in-depth visit, private and VIP tours are available year-round by appointment. Tours require a minimum donation of $500 (tax-deductible) for up to six guests or $1,000 for groups of up to 12. All participants must be seven or older. These two-hour outdoor experiences provide an intimate look at sanctuary life and the chimpanzees who call it home.
For those unable to visit in person, a virtual tour is available at chimphaven.org/visit/digital-tour.