For travelers who enjoy observing and learning about wildlife—especially chimpanzees—Keithville, Louisiana, offers a rare and rewarding destination: the world’s largest chimpanzee sanctuary.
Chimp Haven cares for more than 300 chimpanzees and welcomes visitors to a variety of special events. The sanctuary also arranges private group tours for families, friends, and small organizations.
© Chimp Haven
Unlike many animal facilities that limit public access to prioritize animal care, Chimp Haven is a private, non-profit sanctuary intentionally designed for chimpanzees. Situated on 200 forested acres near Shreveport, Louisiana, the sanctuary provides expansive habitats where chimpanzees roam woodlands, enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, live in large social groups, and experience what the sanctuary calls “The Chimp Life.”
“We are open for private tours year-round and arrange special events at various times of the year,” said Rana Smith, president and CEO of Chimp Haven. “In fall and spring the chimpanzees tend to be most active outdoors. Visitors can often see them moving in social groups, climbing trees, and engaging in natural behaviors.”
Highlighted upcoming events for 2024 include:
Enrichment with the Chimps (March 2, 9 a.m.–noon): This behind-the-scenes experience offers guests the chance to learn about and prepare enrichment items for the chimpanzees. Tickets are $100 per person. Participants must be at least 7 years old.
© Chimp Haven
Brunch in the Wild (March 24, 9 a.m.–noon): This unique offering combines a catered brunch with sanctuary observation opportunities, including watching a chimpanzee painting and a private tour. The experience is $300 per person and is open to guests aged 7 and older.
Chimpanzee Discovery Day (April 13, 9 a.m.–noon): A spring celebration for the whole family, this public event features activities, craft stations, educational talks, and chances to observe the chimpanzees. Admission is $20 for visitors 13 and older, $10 for ages 5–12, and free for children 4 and under. A limited number of behind-the-scenes hayride tickets may also be available.
Chimpanzee Discovery Day (Oct. 22, 9 a.m.–noon): A fall-themed Discovery Day invites visitors to join in costume for morning activities and chimpanzee viewing. The event includes craft stations, educational chats, and special treats; guests are encouraged to bring a canned pumpkin donation for the chimpanzees. Admission pricing mirrors the spring event: $20 for ages 13 and up, $10 for ages 5–12, and free for children 4 and under (children still require a ticket). Exact date and time details may be confirmed by the sanctuary as the season approaches.
© Chimp Haven
Private tours are offered year-round for visitors who prefer a more intimate experience. A minimum tax-deductible donation of $500 covers up to six guests (ages 7 and older), while $1,000 covers up to 12 participants. Tours are typically scheduled on weekdays during normal business hours and can be arranged in advance through the sanctuary.
Chimp Haven balances public engagement with the sanctuary’s primary mission: providing lifelong care for chimpanzees retired from research, entertainment, and private ownership. Visiting supports that mission directly through event fees and donations while giving people a chance to observe these intelligent animals living in environments tailored to their needs.