Supporter Tours at projectchimps: Watch Chimpanzees Live in the Hills Near Morganton, GA

Walking Tour · Morganton

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.

View experience
Duration60–90 minutes
LocationMorganton, Georgia
OperatorProject Chimps
Price shownCheck dates

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.

  1. 01
    Book at least 72 hours ahead

    All tours require bookings made a minimum of 72 hours in advance because tours are volunteer led.

    essential
  2. 02
    Arrive early for activity

    Chimpanzees are most active in the morning, so aim for the earliest tour times to maximize sightings.

    info
  3. 03
    Plan for uneven walking

    The route includes steep grades; wear sturdy footwear and request the mobility cart in advance if needed.

    warning
  4. 04
    Pack a small snack and water

    Picnic areas are available before or after the tour; bring water to stay comfortable on the walking route.

    info
DifficultyModerate
Duration60–90 minutes
FitnessExpect moderate walking with some steep grades; suitable for most visitors who can manage uneven terrain.
Technical skillsNone

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Sturdy hiking shoes

Protect against steep grades and uneven ground on the walking route.

Essential
02

Reusable water bottle

Keeps you hydrated during warm months and on the walk between habitats.

summerEssential
03

Binoculars or telephoto lens

Allows you to observe chimpanzee behavior without approaching or disturbing them.

Essential
04

Light rain jacket

Shelters you from spring showers and keeps you comfortable during variable mountain weather.

spring

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

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

Wildlife

Local fauna

Chimpanzees, Local raptors and songbirds commonly seen in the tree canopy

History

Historic heritage

Tours are volunteer led and the program emphasizes rehabilitation and care; bookings and guide availability reflect that operational model.

Conservation

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.

Project Chimps

Supporter Tours at projectchimps: Watch Chimpanzees Live in the Hills Near Morganton, GA