Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary: A Haven for Sierra Leone's Primates

A Sanctuary Born from Compassion

The story of Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary began in 1995, born from the compassion of Bala Amarasekaran and his wife Sharmila. While traveling near Freetown, they encountered an injured baby chimpanzee for sale in a village. Moved by the chimp's plight, they rescued him, naming him Bruno, and cared for him in their home for a year. This act of kindness sparked a mission.

Initially, the sanctuary was established to enforce wildlife laws and rescue and rehabilitate orphaned chimpanzees. Over time, Tacugama evolved into a multifaceted conservation organization. Today, it actively engages in community outreach, wildlife field research, environmental sustainability, conservation education, and alternative livelihoods programs. Tacugama's vision is to be at the forefront of preserving Sierra Leone's remaining wildlife through education, community support, and eco-tourism. Its mission is to use education and community conservation to eliminate the wildlife trade and safeguard the remaining natural habitats in the country.

Tacugama has become a national conservation success and was instrumental in having the chimpanzee named the official animal of Sierra Leone. Located on the outskirts of Freetown in the Western Area Peninsula National Park, the sanctuary cares for approximately 100 chimpanzees on-site. It is also an eco-tourism hub, offering sanctuary tours, eco-lodges, and various activities for tourists and locals alike. All proceeds from eco-tourism ventures directly support the animals and conservation programs.

Rehabilitation and Care: A Chimpanzee's Journey

Rescued chimpanzees at Tacugama undergo a carefully structured rehabilitation process. This journey begins with an initial quarantine period, which lasts a minimum of three months, to ensure the health and safety of both the new arrivals and the resident chimpanzees. During this time, the chimps receive comprehensive veterinary care, including health checks, inoculations and close monitoring. A specially trained caregiver acts as a surrogate mother, providing comfort, care, and feeding.

Once the quarantine period is complete, the chimpanzees are gradually introduced to peer groups. This socialization process is crucial for their emotional and social development. Younger chimps are often easier to integrate, forming bonds and friendships as they play together. The sanctuary also ensures that the chimps receive a natural and healthy diet. Many arrive having been fed inappropriate foods, so Tacugama teaches them what they can eat and provides substitute milk.

The chimpanzees live in spacious enclosures designed to replicate their natural habitat. These enclosures encourage natural behaviors such as foraging, climbing, and swinging. Enrichment programs further stimulate their minds and bodies. Tacugama aims to provide a safe and natural haven where rescued chimpanzees can heal, socialize, and ultimately, live fulfilling lives.

More Than a Sanctuary: Community and Conservation

Tacugama's impact extends far beyond the sanctuary boundaries. The Tacugama Conservation Outreach Programme (TCOP) works with local communities to promote sustainable natural resource management and wildlife conservation. Founded in 2011, the TCOP supports communities through alternative livelihood initiatives such as fruit tree planting, livestock farms, and inland valley swamp rice production. These initiatives reduce dependency on bushmeat hunting and deforestation, fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.

The Tacugama Kids Environmental Education Programme (TKEEP) integrates chimpanzee conservation into school curriculums. The program aims to increase environmental awareness in primary schools and equip students with the skills to address environmental issues. TKEEP teaches in accordance with the national curriculum, covering topics such as ecosystems, rainforests, pollution, and biodiversity. By prioritizing rural schools, TKEEP aims to create an understanding of the importance of the forest and generate interest in its protection.

Tacugama also plays a vital role in reforestation efforts, creating wildlife corridors, and combating the illegal bushmeat trade. By engaging local communities and multidisciplinary stakeholders, Tacugama strives to secure the future of Sierra Leone's wildlife and natural habitats.

Visiting Tacugama: An Immersive Experience

A visit to Tacugama offers an immersive and educational experience. Guided tours provide insights into the sanctuary's mission, the rehabilitation process, and the individual stories of the rescued chimpanzees. The tour typically includes visits to the quarantine area, where new arrivals are cared for, the teenage area, where young chimps socialize, and the final semi-wild enclosure, where rehabilitated chimps roam freely.

For a truly unique experience, visitors can stay overnight in one of Tacugama's eco-lodges. These forest retreats, named after special chimps, offer a chance to connect with nature and observe the chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The eco-lodges provide comfortable accommodations, with options ranging from traditional roundhouses to treehouse lodges. Breakfast is included, and guests can enjoy other activities such as forest bathing, waterfall hiking, and bird watching.

To ensure the safety and well-being of the chimpanzees, visitors must adhere to certain rules. These include wearing masks, avoiding eye contact, and minimizing noise. By respecting these guidelines, visitors contribute to the sanctuary's efforts to provide a safe and enriching environment for its residents.

Supporting Tacugama: How You Can Help

There are many ways to support Tacugama's vital work. Individuals can volunteer their time and skills, assisting with chimpanzee husbandry, community outreach, and forest patrols. Volunteer opportunities range from three weeks to six months, offering a chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of the chimpanzees and the surrounding communities.

Donations are also gratefully accepted and can be made online or through registered charities in the UK and Spain. These donations directly support the care of the chimpanzees and the expansion of conservation and poverty alleviation programs. Another way to contribute is through the chimp guardianship program, which offers exclusive updates and a chance to directly impact a chimpanzee's life.

By supporting sustainable tourism and community-led experiences, visitors can also contribute to Tacugama's mission. Tacugama could not survive without the help of visitors and volunteers. Tacugama welcomes those who would like to do their part to save the National Animal of Sierra Leone.

Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a conservation advocate, or simply seeking a unique and meaningful travel experience, Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of chimpanzee conservation in Sierra Leone.