At Chimps Camps, our commitment to wildlife conservation is at the heart of everything we do. The establishment of Sokwe Lodge outside the park boundaries is a testament to our dedication to preserving the delicate balance between tourism and the well-being of chimpanzees.
Why Outside the Park?
Chimpanzees in regions like Gombe and Mahale have faced numerous health challenges over the years, often linked to human interactions. Studies have documented various disease outbreaks that have severely impacted chimpanzee populations.
Documented Disease Outbreaks:
- Gombe National Park:
- 1966: A suspected polio outbreak paralyzed several chimpanzees. (Source: Goodall, J. (1986). The Chimpanzees of Gombe.)
- 1996: A severe respiratory epidemic led to at least 11 chimpanzee deaths. (Source: Goldberg et al., 2007, Emerging Infectious Diseases.)
- 1997: A scabies outbreak affected multiple chimpanzees. (Source: Wallis & Lee, 1999, American Journal of Primatology.)
- Mahale Mountains National Park:
- 2006: A flu-like respiratory disease resulted in up to 12 chimpanzee deaths. (Source: Hanamura et al., 2008, Primates Journal.)
Cause of Disease Transmission
Research indicates that human proximity to chimpanzees increases the likelihood of zoonotic disease transmission. Respiratory infections and skin diseases observed in wild chimpanzees have often been linked to interactions with tourists, researchers, and park staff. (Source: Köndgen et al., 2008, Current Biology.)
Solution: Sustainable Tourism Outside the Park
By situating Sokwe Lodge outside the park, we aim to:
- Minimize Human-Wildlife Contact: Reducing direct interactions decreases the risk of disease transmission, ensuring that our closest relatives in the animal kingdom thrive in their natural habitats.
- Promote Sustainable Tourism: Guests can experience the wonders of chimpanzee behavior without intruding upon their environment, fostering a deeper appreciation for these incredible creatures.
Our Commitment to Conservation
Beyond the strategic location of Sokwe Lodge, Chimps Camps is dedicated to:
- Community Engagement: We work closely with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of chimpanzee conservation and the role they play in this effort.
- Research and Monitoring: Collaborating with wildlife experts, we support ongoing research to monitor chimpanzee health and implement measures to protect them from potential threats.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Our lodges are designed with sustainability in mind, ensuring that our ecological footprint is minimal and that we contribute positively to the surrounding environment.
Be an Advocate for Chimpanzee Conservation
We invite our guests to become advocates for chimpanzee conservation. By choosing to stay with us at Sokwe Lodge, you are not only supporting sustainable tourism but also setting an example for others. Your experience and voice can inspire more people to understand that it is possible to protect these incredible animals while enjoying their beauty from a respectful distance.
Share your journey, tell your story, and let’s build a community of conservation champions. Together, we can safeguard the future of chimpanzees.
At Chimps Camps, we believe that thoughtful tourism and conservation can go hand in hand. Sokwe Lodge embodies this philosophy, offering guests an unforgettable experience while safeguarding the future of our cherished chimpanzees.