Healing and Hope: A Visit to Ol Pejeta's Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a haven for wildlife lovers. You can spot all sorts of amazing creatures here, from the Big Five to the last two remaining northern white rhinos and the critically endangered black rhinos (they're doing incredible work here to save this species!). But Ol Pejeta isn't just about rhinos, another experience here will tug at your heartstrings: the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. We asked Dr. Florence, a veterinarian at Ol Pejeta, to help us understand the importance of this sanctuary.

This sanctuary is a safe haven for chimpanzees rescued from terrible situations. Many have been kept as pets or suffered in the illegal wildlife trade. Here at Sweetwaters, they get to heal and live like chimps should!

Chimpanzees in the wild face big problems, mainly because of us humans. Their forest homes are disappearing as we cut down trees for farms, roads, and buildings. This leaves chimps with nowhere to live and no food to eat. On top of that, chimps are captured for the pet trade or even for bushmeat, disrupting their families and putting their whole population in danger.

                                                                                                                                                    Photo by Rio the Photographer oF George and Astra

But at Sweetwaters, it's all about giving these amazing animals a second chance. The sanctuary's daily routine is designed to mimic natural behaviours as closely as possible. Starting early, caregivers assess the chimpanzees for signs of distress or illness, followed by a nutritious breakfast, just like us. Then they get to spend the whole day in big, outdoor playgrounds where they can climb, play, and socialize with each other.

The road to recovery isn't always easy. Some have been through a lot and need extra help feeling safe and trusting again. The amazing team at Ol Pejeta is patient and kind, helping them heal and rejoin their chimp families. The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary serves a crucial role in Ol Pejeta's broader conservation strategy. Beyond offering a safe haven, they contribute significantly to the future of chimpanzees worldwide through rehabilitation programs and research collaborations.

                                                                                                                                                           Photo by Rio the Photographer Astra and Chimpanzee

By visiting Ol Pejeta, you become part of something bigger. You're helping them protect wild chimp habitats, stop the brutal illegal wildlife trade, and educate people about these fascinating creatures. Plus, you get to see these incredible chimps up close during their feeding time – an experience you won't forget!

Visitors can observe the chimps from designated areas and learn more about their stories from the dedicated caregivers. Witnessing these resilient creatures overcome their past and begin to heal is a powerful and unforgettable experience. 

Get in touch with us if you want to book this experience for yourself. 

                                                                                                                                                                                      Photo by Rio the Photographer