Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Wildlife rescue service · Western Rural ·

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Wildlife rescue service · Western Rural ·

Eco-lodges, sanctuary tours, jungle hikes, jazz nights, yoga

Information

Freetown, Sierra Leone Get directions

@cntraveler

42,481 Postcards · 5,683 Cities

How I Packed for a Trip Around the World With My Toddler

"Home to the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary where the Bruno the Chimpanzee stuffed animal was purchased. This sanctuary plays a crucial role in conservation efforts and offers visitors a chance to learn about chimpanzees in their natural habitat."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/best-travel-gear-for-toddlers

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

@cntraveler

42,481 Postcards · 5,683 Cities

Bright Ideas in Travel 2024

"In 2025, the team behind the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary will open a set of low-impact ecolodges on Jaibui Island in southern Sierra Leone. Jaibui is a research site for the organization, founded by Bala and Sharmila Amarasekaran, which has been working in conservation and animal welfare for decades. Tacugama already operates ecolodges at its sanctuary just outside the capital of Freetown, which is now home to more than 120 chimpanzees rescued from poachers and illegal pet operations. Proceeds from the lodges, as well as guided hikes and birdwatching tours, support work like creating sustainable livelihoods—that are not reliant on deforestation or poaching—in places where humans and chimpanzees live in proximity. Back at the sanctuary, construction is underway on their Innovation Centre and Botanic Gardens, projected to open in 2026."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/bright-ideas-in-travel-2024

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

@cntraveler

42,481 Postcards · 5,683 Cities

How Sierra Leone Is Changing Its Narrative Through Tourism

"The Western Chimpanzee was declared the country’s national animal in 2019—extending a level of protection only made possible by the sustained lobbying of Bala Amarasekaran, who is founder of Freetown’s Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary and is working to develop the country’s first eco-tourism circuit."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/how-sierra-leone-is-changing-its-narrative-through-tourism

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Cate C.

Google

i had a wonderful experience here yesterday. the setting is beautiful and cool under the dense canopy. the tour is somewhat brief (1 hour) but wonderfully engaging. the tour guides are extremely knowledgeable and we got great views of the chimps. i also love all the work they do in the community around sierra leone. this is a must see for everyone in sierra leone!

Alessia C.

Google

An oasis of peace just outside the noise and traffic of Freetown. The place is well maintained and beautiful. I recommend the one hour tour. The guides are patient, passionate about their job and the animals. Definitely a must to visit if you are in the area.

Yaw1982

Google

The park is a pleasant place to visit and makes for an easy trip from Freetown. The surroundings are nice, and it’s generally a calm spot to spend a few hours. However, the atmosphere does feel a bit like a zoo at times, which takes away from the natural experience. The lodges are comfortable enough, but—like many places in Sierra Leone—they feel somewhat overpriced for what you actually get. Overall, it’s a decent destination and worth seeing once

John K.

Google

It is nice place to visit and experience the wild in Sierra Leone. The tour guides were thorough and detailed oriented doing the tour. It is an experience you don't want to miss whenever in Sierra Leone.

Elijah E.

Google

I had a 1-hr tour of the sanctuary. Was really nice to learn about Chimpanzees. Tour was well organized!

Julia E.

Google

I offered a silent retreat day for our team. As usual, the events organisation was spot on Timely, efficient and respectful and friendly Lunch was delicious and our practice space had been arranged with attention to detail. A beautiful, tranquil spot.

Mark A.

Google

What a great escape from the heat and chaos of Freetown. We stayed a lodge and did the one hour tour. The food is great and the staff understand hospitality. The lodges are very nice and clean. There are lights but No sockets. Clean toilet and cold showers. The sanctuary is impressive and large. The guide was very good and clear. You can see that these people love animals and the environment. A must see in Freetown. The park and lodges are not suitable if you are in a wheelchair.

Tendai M.

Google

Wonderful stay at this sanctuary. Breathtaking views and overall amazing time. Would come again. Staff are amazing, the location is outstanding. The purpose and the objective of the sanctuary deserves all our support.