Volunteering at Chimfunshi: What to Expect at Zambia’s Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Nestled in the heart of northern Zambia, Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage is one of the world's largest chimpanzee sanctuaries, offering a unique volunteer experience that blends wildlife conservation, community outreach, and personal growth. As avid travelers on a journey from Cairo to Cape Town, we—Lisa and Pol—seized the chance to contribute to Chimfunshi's mission. Here’s what you can expect when volunteering at this remarkable sanctuary.

Observing and being observed by the chimps of Chimfunshi

Getting Started: Arrival and Preparations

Reaching Chimfunshi requires some planning. After a nine-hour bus ride from Lusaka to Chingola, volunteers must undergo medical tests, including tuberculosis and HIV screenings, to ensure the safety of the chimpanzees, which share 98% of their DNA with humans. This precautionary measure underscores Chimfunshi’s commitment to safeguarding its residents.

Once you arrive, the warm welcome from the staff and a thorough briefing by the volunteer coordinator, Noe, will help you settle into this remote yet vibrant sanctuary. Be ready to embrace life in a rural village setting, complete with simple living and stunning natural surroundings.

Chimfunshi is located in Northern Zambia (-12.365916, 27.480733)

Quarantine and Orientation

Before working directly with the chimpanzees, volunteers must complete a three-day quarantine period. This time is well spent getting to know Chimfunshi’s broader mission. You’ll learn about the Twampane Community School, which provides education, vocational training, and daily hot meals to over 220 local children.

During orientation, you might help with community projects, such as setting up helping out around the school or assisting on the sanctuary’s farm. Farm work involves harvesting vegetables like Chinese cabbage, which feeds both the chimpanzees and the schoolchildren. It’s hands-on, rewarding, and connects you to the ecosystem Chimfunshi nurtures.

Working with Chimpanzees: A Day in the Life

Once quarantine is complete, the real magic begins—interacting with over 150 chimpanzees who call Chimfunshi home. Daily tasks include:

• Feeding:

  Twice a day, volunteers prepare and distribute food, ranging from fruits and vegetables to cooked meals. To mimic natural foraging behaviors, food is scattered or hidden in enrichment puzzles.

• Cleaning:

  Ensuring the cleanliness of food storage and enclosures is essential to maintaining the chimps' health.

• Building Enrichments:

  Volunteers craft puzzles and toys to stimulate the chimps' minds, particularly for those in isolation due to medical treatments.

Each interaction offers a deeper understanding of these intelligent creatures and the challenges they face in captivity.

Witnessing the interaction between the chimps

Community and Connection

Chimfunshi is more than a wildlife sanctuary; it’s a global community. Volunteers bond over shared experiences, from board games and barbecues to evening rides under breathtaking Zambian sunsets. You’ll meet researchers, staff, and fellow volunteers, all united by a passion for wildlife conservation.

One of the most inspiring aspects of Chimfunshi is its history. Founded over 40 years ago by Dave and Sheila Siddle, the sanctuary began in their family home and has grown into a haven for rescued chimpanzees. Sheila’s vision of large, natural enclosures continues to guide the sanctuary’s work, upheld by her daughter Sylvia and the dedicated team.

Reflections on the Experience

Volunteering at Chimfunshi is transformative. It deepens your appreciation for conservation and showcases the resilience of both the chimpanzees and the people working tirelessly to protect them. You leave with a profound sense of purpose, knowing your efforts contribute to a legacy of compassion and care.

For us, Chimfunshi was a highlight of our African journey. It’s a place where every day brings new challenges, laughter, and lessons. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife, community service, or simply seeking a meaningful travel experience, volunteering here will leave a lasting imprint on your heart.

Watch Our Chimfunshi Volunteer Experience on YouTube!

Want to see it all in action? From feeding chimpanzees to setting up enrichment puzzles and bonding with the community, our video captures the magic of Chimfunshi. Watch it on our channel, Lisa & Pol travel the world:

How you can help

Are you interested in becoming a volunteer in Chimfunshi? Head to the sanctuary's website and find out how you can help. You'll discover the full extent of their missions and find the best ways you can get involved. From supporting a particular chimp or a specific project, to coming over to Zambia to do research, everyone can find a meaningful way to help the cause.