Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage in Chimfunshi, Chimfunshi: Hours, Facilities and Family Guide
Animals and wildlife in Chimfunshi, Chimfunshi
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Chimfunshi is a profoundly moving and educational experience for families with older children. The scale of the sanctuary and the stories of the rescued chimpanzees are unforgettable, and the conservation ethos is genuine. Expect a remote, rustic setting and a visit that stays with you.
What is Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage?
Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage Trust (CWOT) is one of the oldest and biggest sanctuaries for orphaned and rescued chimpanzees, located in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province. Established in 1983 after David and Sheila Siddle took in an injured infant chimpanzee named Pal, the sanctuary now spans over 10,000 acres and is home to around 120 chimpanzees, including Pal, its first resident. It is the largest chimpanzee sanctuary in the world. Visitors can observe the chimps in large forested enclosures, learn about the rescue stories, and visit the education centre. The sanctuary also runs a community school and dormitories, and welcomes school trips. It is a deeply ethical, conservation-focused experience rather than a commercial zoo.
Chimpanzee rescue and rehabilitation; conservation education
💡 Money-saving tips for families
- Morning Best chimp activity. Guide
Is it right for your child's age?
| Age group | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 years | Fair | Long tour and remote location. |
| 3–5 years | Limited | Too young for the full experience. |
| 6–9 years | Good | Can engage with the rescue stories. |
| 10–12 years | Excellent | Core age range for conservation interest. |
| 13+ years | Excellent | Full experience. |
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Key details
- Address
- Chimfunshi, Copperbelt Province, Zambia, Chimfunshi
What if...?
The questions every parent asks before booking. Tap to expand.
Is the sanctuary suitable for young children?
It is best for ages 8+ due to the nature of the tours and the remote location.
Can we see chimpanzees?
Yes, the sanctuary is home to over 120 rescued chimpanzees.
Family essentials
- Suitable age bands
- 0–2 years
- 3–5 years
- 6–9 years
- 10–12 years
- 13+ years
- Toddler suitability
- Yes, with supervision
- Minimum age
- 8 (recommended)
- Facilities
- Guided tours
- education centre
- Access and parking
- Remote access
- Safety notes
Follow guide instructions around enclosures
Tickets and costs
- Ages that pay the child rate
- All ages (best for 8+)
- Toddler age band
- Yes
- Ticket notes
Entry fees or donations apply; confirm current rates locally.
- Parking
- Free
- Free entry rules
- No
- Extra costs (activities, rentals, food)
Guided tours, education centre
- Food and drink per person (estimate)
- Free
- Return transport (estimate, flat)
- Free
- Transport estimate note
- Remote location in Copperbelt Province; high-clearance vehicle recommended
- Prices last checked
- Entry and facilities cross-checked with Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage, October 2026
Plan your visit
- Best time to visit
- Morning (cooler and better chimp activity)
- Busiest times
- Weekends
- How to get there
In Chimfunshi, Copperbelt Province; signed
- By car
- Yes, high-clearance recommended
- Uber / Bolt estimate
- Not practical
- Public transport
Not practical
- Combine with
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- What to bring
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Accessibility deep dive
Here is what to expect on the ground.
High-clearance vehicle recommended.
Forested enclosures.
Combine your visit
Plan the perfect day
The world’s largest chimpanzee sanctuary, with over 120 rescued chimps and an education centre in the Copperbelt Province.
What to pack
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Family day bag checklist
What visitors say
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Frequently asked questions
- Is Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage suitable for toddlers and young children?
- Minimum age: 8 (recommended). Follow guide instructions around enclosures
- Is Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage accessible, and is there parking?
- Access and parking: Remote access.
- What is the best time to visit Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage?
- Morning (cooler and better chimp activity). It is busiest Weekends.
- How do you get to Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage?
- Yes, high-clearance recommended. Ride-hailing: Not practical. Public transport: Not practical In Chimfunshi, Copperbelt Province; signed
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