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Calling all animal lovers and adventure seekers! Nestled in the heart of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, lies Free to be Wild Sanctuary, a haven for rescued primates and a vibrant hub for wildlife conservation. Immerse yourself in this unique local destination and experience the magic of nature first-hand.
Here’s what awaits you at Free to be Wild:
Free to be Wild is more than just a sanctuary; it’s an experience that touches the heart and ignites the spirit of adventure. It’s a place where you can reconnect with nature, learn about animal welfare, and contribute to a brighter future for Zimbabwe’s wildlife.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your visit to Free to be Wild today and:
Free to be Wild was founded by Baye Pigors in January, 2014.
Growing up in Africa Baye always had a back yard full of orphaned wildlife. Animals of all descriptions have always been a big part of her life.
In 2013, Baye received her first orphaned baby baboon- who was promptly named “Umfazi”. At that stage the formation of the sanctuary was still a long way off, but Baye made Umfazi a promise – that promise was, that one day she would be returned to the wild and be given the chance to be a free baboon again.
That promise was the beginning of an incredible and heart warming journey.
Upon receiving Umfazi, Baye realised that there was no facility or organization in Zimbabwe that was geared towards the rehabilitation of primates with the ultimate goal of releasing them back into the wild.
For the next several months Baye spent her time travelling and visiting sanctuaries throughout Southern Africa where she learned and researched rehabilitation methods for primates and other wild animals.
Upon her return, Free to be Wild was founded and programs for the rehabilitation and release of both monkeys and baboons were established.
The Sanctuary is open to the public on weekends for educational tours. We have trained guides who provide in-depth knowledge of all the wildlife currently staying at the sanctuary – whether they are temporarily at the sanctuary for rehabilitation or one of our special permanent residents.
We particularly love welcoming children – whether as part of a school, church group or as a family. Our aim is to provide a window into the work we do at the sanctuary, and why we believe every animal should have the opportunity to be free to be wild.
Tour times - Saturday & Sunday
No booking required, arrive at the below times for a tour of our facilities and meet the wildlife in our care:
09:00 11:00 13:30 16:00
Entrance Fee
Locals: Adults $5 Children $3
Internationals: Adults $20 Children $10
Join the day to day work at Zimbabwe’s first animal sanctuary built to house and rehabilitate primates, alongside a wide variety of other species of wildlife.
Work alongside the projects founder, Baye Pigors, who was awarded the Unsung Conservation Hero’s Award by Africa Geographic in 2016.
What does volunteering entail?
Enjoy hands-on work with wildlife orphans
Help raising baby monkeys, from bottle-feeding to bush walks
Work with a range of species, from zebra to antelope, birds to bush babies
Assist with feeding, husbandry and enrichment regimes
Join the team when veterinary or rescue work is carried out
Understand the rehabilitation process
Be a part of the animal’s release
Help monitor released animals
Enjoy the stunning national parks, museums, markets & wildlife of Zimbabwe in your free time.