Adventure brief
Supporter Tours
Step off the beaten path and spend 60 to 90 minutes watching chimpanzees move through open habitats at Supporter Tours. Book early, dress for uneven ground, and arrive in the morning for the best chance to observe active behavior.
Supporter Tours at projectchimps bring visitors into a working chimpanzee sanctuary on the rolling hills outside Morganton, Georgia. Located at 2031 Lowery Rd, Morganton, GA 30560, these private 60 to 90 minute walking tours offer an intimate window into chimpanzee lives as animals climb hardwoods, use tall climbing structures, and relax on ridge top ledges. Tours run nearly every day at 10:00 or 11:00 a m, and general Supporter Tours can sometimes start as late as 2:00 p m by arrangement.
All visits must be booked at least 72 hours in advance. The experience is defined by choice and space. Chimpanzees are free to roam the hills, trees and enrichment structures, and they determine when and where to be visible.
Guests may witness social grooming, playful chasing, foraging in planted areas, or quiet solitary moments in shaded hollows. Habitat features include mature native trees that double as natural observation platforms, grassy slopes that provide viewing elevation, and engineered climbing frames that highlight primate power and balance. Volunteer guides lead small private groups and provide background on individual chimp histories, welfare objectives, and daily care practices while keeping a respectful distance.
Practical details are straightforward. The walking tour includes some steep grades and uneven ground, so wear sturdy shoes and expect a moderate level of exertion. A cart that holds up to five people is available for visitors with mobility needs if selected during booking, and the team can arrange wheelchair accommodation ahead of time.
Parking is available and buses can be accommodated, but carpooling is encouraged to reduce local traffic. Restroom options at the parking area are portable toilets. The sanctuary operates in ordinary weather but may cancel only for severe weather that impacts roads and volunteer availability.
This is an observational wildlife experience rather than an interactive encounter. Sightings cannot be guaranteed because chimpanzees choose their locations, so mornings tend to be best for activity. Photographers will do best with a telephoto lens and a quiet approach.
For special occasions the staff can help arrange modest extras such as a gift bag or cake storage if requested in advance. Supporter Tours are a meaningful way to support a volunteer run sanctuary while learning about rescued chimpanzees thriving in spacious, naturalistic settings. For travelers based in Morganton or nearby mountain towns, the visit fits as a focused half day outing that combines animal behavior, conservation education, and real world wildlife observation that lingers after you leave.
Plan to arrive early, bring bottled water, and respect signage and staff instructions; donations and merchandise purchases directly support the sanctuary and its rehabilitation programs. Ask about volunteer opportunities and educational programs to extend your visit into community support for chimpanzee care and research.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Book at least 72 hours aheadessential
All tours require bookings made a minimum of 72 hours in advance because tours are volunteer led.
- 02Arrive early for activityinfo
Chimpanzees are most active in the morning, so aim for the earliest tour times to maximize sightings.
- 03Plan for uneven walkingwarning
The route includes steep grades; wear sturdy footwear and request the mobility cart in advance if needed.
- 04Pack a small snack and waterinfo
Picnic areas are available before or after the tour; bring water to stay comfortable on the walking route.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Protect against steep grades and uneven ground on the walking route.
EssentialReusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during warm months and on the walk between habitats.
summerEssentialBinoculars or telephoto lens
Allows you to observe chimpanzee behavior without approaching or disturbing them.
EssentialLight rain jacket
Shelters you from spring showers and keeps you comfortable during variable mountain weather.
springLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Picnic areas overlooking the habitats that are perfect for a post tour lunch, Volunteer led informal talks near the meeting area that provide deep background on individual chimp histories
Local fauna
Chimpanzees, Local raptors and songbirds commonly seen in the tree canopy
Historic heritage
Tours are volunteer led and the program emphasizes rehabilitation and care; bookings and guide availability reflect that operational model.
Mindful exploration
Visitors are encouraged to carpool to reduce site traffic; donations, merchandise sales, and bookings directly support sanctuary care and rehabilitation programs.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Edge of the main habitat ridge for wide shots, Near the climbing structures for action frames, Picnic area for contextual images with habitat background
- Subjects
- Chimpanzee social interactions, Climbing structures and habitat features, Volunteer guides and educational signage
- Best times
- Morning, Late afternoon, Overcast for even light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
How far in advance must I book a Supporter Tour?
All bookings must be made at least 72 hours in advance because tours are volunteer led and require scheduling.
Will I always see chimpanzees on the tour?
No. The chimpanzees decide where to spend their day, so sightings are common but not guaranteed; mornings offer the best chance for activity.
Are tours wheelchair accessible?
A cart that holds up to five people is available if selected during booking, and wheelchair accommodation can be arranged ahead of time.
What restrooms are available on site?
The only restroom facilities at the parking area are portable toilets, so plan accordingly before or after your visit.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours proceed in ordinary weather, but the sanctuary may cancel only for severe weather that impacts roads, travel, or volunteer availability.
Can I bring food or celebrate an occasion?
Yes. You may bring a snack or lunch for the picnic areas, and modest celebration arrangements like gift bags or cake storage can be coordinated in advance.