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Chimpanzee Discovery Day

Saturday, April 12, 2025
9 a.m. – noon

Two times each year, the world’s largest chimpanzee sanctuary opens its doors for a morning of chimpanzee discovery!

discovery day kids

THIS EXPERIENCE INCLUDES

  • Observe chimp families in their forested habitats
  • Hear chats from our expert staff about chimp behaviors, veterinary care, enrichment, and more
  • Learn about life at sanctuary at interactive stations
  • Take a hayride tour (optional; additional ticket required for all ages)

WISH LIST REQUESTS FOR THE CHIMPS

Interested in bringing a special gift for the chimps? The following items are on the chimps’ wish list for fall and can be donated at the event!

  • New/unopened jars of peanut butter
  • Canned fruits in water or own juice (i.e. no sugar or syrup added)
  • Canned veggies (low sodium)
  • Unsalted nuts and dried fruit
  • New/unused Squishmellows or blankets
  • Plain instant mashed potatoes

What to Expect at This Event

Visit Chimp Haven for this twice-annual experience where you’ll observe chimp families in their forested habitats and learn all about their lives at sanctuary. Behind-the-scenes hayride tours are available with an additional first-come, first-served ticket.

Thank You, Sponsors!

Bonvenu Bank

First Horizon Bank

Lotus Hospitality

 

 

Perkins&Will

RoseStone Wealth Advisors

Wilcoxen Air

My son had the best time ever seeing the chimps have such beautiful lives after seeing them on Disney Plus.”

Past Event Attendee

Event Guidelines

Tickets

Proceeds from Chimpanzee Discovery Day benefit the chimps’ lives at sanctuary. Thank you for your support!

  • Adult Admission (Ages 13+): $20
  • Youth Admission (Ages 5 – 12): $10
  • Child Admission (Ages 4 and under): Free
  • Hayride (limited availability, must be purchased in addition to general admission): $25
Hayrides

As part of Chimpanzee Discovery Days, Chimp Haven offers several “hayride” style tours. These tours take place at 9:45 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 11:15 a.m., and 11:45 a.m. Space for these tours is limited and tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis. This add-on experience is $25 per person. Tickets may be purchased along with Chimpanzee Discovery Day tickets online.

What to Know Before you Arrive
  • We are located at 13600 Chimpanzee Pl, Keithville, LA 71047. As you arrive, follow the sign to Tours & Event Parking and park in the lot. From there, you’ll enter the black iron gate.
  • The best time to see chimpanzees is 9 – 10 a.m. Habitat releases occur approximately every 20 minutes beginning shortly after 9 a.m. During these releases guests will see the chimp families venture down to the moat and explore their forested habitats.
  • Chimpanzees are viewed in their habitats from across a moated waterway; guests are welcome to bring binoculars or cameras with a zoom lens for a closer look.
  • The event is outdoors with limited covered areas; comfortable shoes are recommended. You may also want to bring a water bottle, hat, or sunscreen.
  • Free parking is available, but may require a short walk to the entrance.
  • Chimp Haven merchandise is available for purchase using cash or credit card.
  • Refreshments are available for purchase. Chimp Haven concessions and food trucks typically accept cash or credit card.
  • Masks are recommended for all guests.
  • Portable restrooms and handwashing stations are available.
  • Certified service animals are allowed, but please leave all other animals and pets at home.
  • You are welcome to bring water or other beverages, but alcohol is not allowed on Chimp Haven property.
  • Not feeling well? If you or anyone in your group has not been feeling well or has been around anyone who has been sick, we ask that you please make plans to attend a future event.
Accessibility

Chimp Haven strives to provide a memorable and educational experience for every visitor. Given that Chimpanzee Discovery Days take place outdoors in the sanctuary’s rural setting, please be aware that walkways at the event are gravel and often uneven, and may be difficult to navigate for those with limited mobility. Our parking lot and walkways may also be muddy in the event of rain. Guests should expect to walk on foot to view chimpanzee habitats and access event amenities. Hayrides are not wheelchair accessible. Other Chimp Haven events may have additional accessibility options – learn more about Chimp Chats, Brunch in the Wild, and Sanctuary Tours. Chimp Haven is committed to improving accessibility for guests and visitors; if you have questions about event accessibility or would like to discuss accessibility options, please reach out to us at events@chimphaven.org.

Cancellations

Chimpanzee Discovery Day events typically occur rain or shine. No refunds are available for Chimpanzee Discovery Day, and all unused tickets are considered a donation to Chimp Haven. If an event must be canceled by Chimp Haven, ticket holders may receive a refund or they may use their ticket to attend a rescheduled event (if available).

Sponsorship Opportunities

Join us as a Chimpanzee Discovery Day sponsor! Learn more about sponsorship opportunities and submit your sponsorship today. Contact events@chimphaven.org for more information.

More Questions?

For questions or feedback about Chimp Haven events, please contact events@chimphaven.org.