Don't miss: Chimpanzee Discovery Day at Chimp Haven in Shreveport

Valentina Rose, sitting on the limb of a pine tree. Image courtesy of Chimp Haven.

Posted: Apr 8, 2024 / 07:45 AM CDT

Updated: Apr 8, 2024 / 07:45 AM CDT

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)—The largest chimpanzee sanctuary in the world will open its doors to the public in mid-April.

Chimp Haven will open on Apr. 13 from 9 a.m. until noon for their “Chimpanzee Discovery Day,” but don’t wait to get your tickets because they’re going fast!

Guests can explore the sanctuary and check out the habitats where the chimps live and play.

Rana Smith is the President and CEO of Chimp Haven, and she says that welcoming the community into Chimp Haven’t beautiful grounds and near chimps that are living their best lives is exhilarating.

*Carlee is a brave little thing, and her caretaker calls her a “feisty daredevil baby.” She’s one of the youngest chimps at Chimp Haven. (Source: image by Chimp Haven)*

Animal sanctuaries such as Chimp Haven are rarely open to the public.

Rana said Chimpanzee Discovery Day is a unique experience for visitors and allows the staff to express their gratitude to Chimp Haven supporters.

“We do expect this event to sell out, so if you’d like to visit, please purchase your tickets now.”

At the event, you’ll hear about the personalities of individual chimps, learn about what they like to eat, and see the veterinary care they receive.

Most of the sanctuary’s 300+ residents are retired from biomedical research.

All ages are welcome to participate in Chimpanzee Discovery Day, but tickets are $20 and must be purchased in advance. Tickets for children ages 5-12 are $10, and children under four are free.

The staff at Chimp Haven recommends arriving close to 9 a.m., as the chimps are most active in the morning.

Can’t make it to Chimpanzee Discovery Day? No worries! You can take a virtual tour of the sanctuary or schedule a personalized visit. VIP tours require a minimum donation of $500 for up to 6 guests and $1000 for 12 guests, and all participants on private tours must be age seven or older. The majority of the tour is outdoors.