Project Chimps Chimpcation

Chimpcation registration is $1,150 per person and include all on-site activities, transportation, and some meals.

Chimpcation crews are responsible for paying for travel to and from the project location and for food not otherwise listed above. Registration fees are the same for every service week offered.  Registration fees are due one month before the start of your trip. See information below about reserving your desired week. Project Chimps is a non-profit organization. The registration fee helps offset the costs associated with coordinating our volunteer vacation trips and ensures that we can provide quality programs while also providing quality care for the chimpanzees.

The registration fee and travel associated with your volunteer trip may be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. 

Many companies will provide paid time off for volunteer work, match your volunteer registration fee, and even match travel expenses incurred to volunteer.  See if your company has a Matching Program.

Chimpcation groups are limited to six (6) participants per trip. You’ll make new friends and work side-by-side with members of our staff and experienced volunteers.

Youth between the ages of 12 and 18 are welcome, with prior approval, if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Children will require adult supervision at all times while on sanctuary grounds. Please inquire before registering.

No Experience Required

Never worked with chimpanzees or at an animal sanctuary before? We welcome you! Volunteer vacations do not require any prior experience, just a good attitude and a willingness to get a little dirty!

Tools, training, and supervision are all provided by Project Chimps. And while you’ll see chimpanzees in their outdoor habitat during your visit, there is no direct contact with the chimps for their safety and yours.

Guest Requirements

• Individual participants must be at least 18 years old. Children between 12 and 18 are welcome by prior arrangement if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
• All participants must be able to show proof of a current tetanus, covid, and flu vaccinations, and provide proof of a negative TB test within 12 months before their service week. Individuals who cannot provide proof of these medical requirements may still participate in the service week but will not be permitted in certain locations and/or activities due to the zoonotic risk for the chimpanzees.
• Most activities will be outdoors and require moderate levels of physical activity. Please let us know if you or anyone in your group requires special accommodations.

Lodging and Transportation Options

Project Chimps is located approximately two hours north of Atlanta, Georgia, and two hours southeast of Chattanooga, Tennessee. The sanctuary sits on 236 forest acres at the foot of the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains.

Air Travel: If you’re traveling by air, you’ll find many flight options via Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL). Chattanooga Airport (CHA) is another option, though flights are limited.

Lodging: There are many convenient and attractive lodging options here! Choose the accommodations that suit your preferences and budget. There are a wide variety of hotels, resorts, motels, private cabins, and camping sites to choose from in the area. Here are a few we recommend:

• Paradise Hills Resort and Spa – packages available, tell them you are on Chimpcation!
• Hampton Inn
• Serenity Spa
• Comfort Inn & Suites
• My Mountain Cabin Rentals – nearest the sanctuary
• Airbnb – local cabin and home Rentals
• Camping at Lake Blue Ridge

• There are three ways you can register for Volunteer Vacations:

  1. Online: Select your preferred week and follow the link to register today.
  2. Mail: Download the application form and mail with a check made payable to Project Chimps, PO Box 2140, Blue Ridge, GA 30513.
  3. Phone: Call (706) 374-3675 to register by phone.

Now that you’ve signed up for a Volunteer Vacation, view our Trip Resources information to plan your trip, get answers to common questions, and get ready for fun