Chimp Haven

Chimp Haven is a dedicated chimpanzee sanctuary in Louisiana that provides a long-term home for nearly 300 chimpanzees formerly used in biomedical research. The sanctuary spans 200 forested acres and is designed around the animals' social lives, individual choices, and daily care rather than a conventional zoo collection. Chimpanzees live in social groups and have access to indoor and outdoor spaces, enrichment, nutritious meals, and specialized medical care.

Visitors can learn about the individual chimpanzees and the sanctuary's approach through tours, educational programs, and other visitor experiences. The grounds offer opportunities to observe chimpanzees using climbing structures, exploring their habitats, interacting with groupmates, and choosing how to spend their time. The destination is particularly suited to travelers interested in chimpanzee behavior, animal welfare, and the practical realities of caring for retired research animals. Its focused collection and sanctuary setting make the visit substantially different from a general zoo experience.