Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary
📍 Nanyuki, Laikipia
Located within the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia, the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary is the only place in Kenya where you can see rescued chimpanzees. Established in 1993, it provides a safe haven for chimps orphaned by the illegal trade, offering an essential educational experience regarding primate conservation.
- Location
- Nanyuki, Laikipia
- Type
- Conservancy
- Status
- Open
- Typical Visit
- Half Day
- Booking
- Walk-ins accepted
- Main Access
- Road
Visitor Information at a Glance
- Official Name
- Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary
- Alternative Names
- Ol Pejeta Chimpanzee Sanctuary
- Attraction Type
- Conservancy
- County
- Laikipia
- Nearest Town
- Nanyuki
- Established
- 1993
- Ownership
- Conservancy
- Significance
- International
- Wheelchair Access
- Partially Accessible
- Visit Duration
- Half Day
- Families
- School Groups
- Researchers
Why Visit Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary
The only destination in Kenya to observe chimpanzees, providing a unique and meaningful wildlife rehabilitation experience.
Chimpanzee viewing, educational talks, and the broader Ol Pejeta conservancy safari experience.
History and Significance
History
Founded to provide a sanctuary for chimpanzees displaced by conflict and trade; continuously supported by the Jane Goodall Institute.
Significance
High international conservation significance for primate rehabilitation.
Wildlife and Natural Environment
- Savannah
- Grassland
Rescued chimpanzees.
Managed by Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
Opening Hours and Booking
| Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday | 8:00 am–5:00 pm |
|---|
- Advance Booking
- Not indicated as required
- Walk-ins
- Accepted
How to Get There
- Main Access
- Road
- Road Surface
- Gravel
- Road Condition
- Fair
- 4WD Required
- Not confirmed
- Public Transport
- Not confirmed
- Parking
- Available
- Nearest Air Access
- Nanyuki Airport
- Distance from Nairobi
- 200 km
Accessible by road from Nanyuki.
Facilities and Visitor Services
- Toilets
- Food
- Drinking Water
- Guides
- On-site Accommodation
- Parking
- Payments: Cash, M-Pesa, Card
Visitor center, cafe in conservancy.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Access
- Partially Accessible
Facility areas are accessible.
- Families
- School Groups
- Researchers
Best Time to Visit
- Best Months
- January, February, June, July, August, September
Rules and Safety
- General Safety Level
- Very Low Risk
Visitor Rules
Follow sanctuary guide rules.
Safety Information
Safe sanctuary area.
Photography and Drone Policy
Photography permitted.