READ ROB'S CHIMPANZEE DIARY FROM ZAMBIA!

Zambia - Wildlife Conservation - Chimpanzee & Wildlife Orphan Care Project

Aug 13, 2010

Rob Graham recently went on an amazing adventure to meet the incredible resident Chimps at our  Chimpanzee project in Northern Zambia...

Rob is one of our African Impact Directors based in Cape Town and has been with African Impact for 5 years. Rob's work has taken him throughout Southern and East Africa, so that makes his feedback below even more interesting...

"Visiting the Chimfunshi chimpanzee sanctuary was truly one of the most incredible experiences I have had to date.
 
The further North we travelled, the more remote everything became, until we were surrounded by a lush tropical jungle with age old trees towering above our heads.  Lack of sunlight due to its inability to penetrate the tree canopy makes for a fascinating habitat nearer to the ground.  The birds, butterflies and bug-life alike provide an array of colour which is nothing short of spectacular.
 
Having turned off the main tar road onto a bumpy dirt track dotted with great big puddles of water from the rains, I couldn’t help feeling like I was on an ‘African Highway’ into the middle of nowhere.  Needless to say I was pleased to be greeted upon arrival by Innocent and his team of wonderful staff. They were nothing but smiles and excited to share their Eden-like paradise with like minded people who share a passion for the conservation of wildlife in Africa.  There is a distinct warmth about the people at Chimpfunshi.

The accommodation is basic but comfortable, there is free wireless internet (which is great for staying in touch with family and uploading the incredible pictures you will get) food is provided for you on site.  The project sends transport into town twice a week so you are welcome to drive into town with them for a re-supply should you need too. 
 
The Chimpanzee sanctuaries and Orphanage are 4-10KM’s from the volunteer base, on occasion you will have to walk to the sanctuaries however you will always be driven to the Orphanage as it’s a little too far for an early morning walk.  Your days volunteering or working on the project are busy and well structured you will be accompanied by a member of staff at all times as safety is of paramount importance.  And meeting the Chimpanzees for the first time is a surreal experience.
 
The family dynamic and the way they care for one another is humbling to witness.  Their likeness to human beings is fascinating, they are intelligent and gentle creatures.
 
My time on the project came to an end all too soon, before I knew it, it was time to return home - I could have stayed in northern Zambia, surrounded by paradise, working with these remarkable creatures for a lifetime.  You really do feel like part of the Chimfunshi family and I will certainly be back in the near future."

Volunteer with the Chimpanzees at Chimpfunshi!
Email kirsty@africanimpact.com for more information.